A Guide to Canal Walks in the UK
Exploring the UK’s canal walks is like stepping into a world where history and nature intertwine. With over 2,000 miles of waterways, these paths offer some of the most peaceful and scenic walking routes in the country.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the history of the UK’s canals, and why they are so popular. Plus i’ve highlighted…
10 of the UK’s favourite Canal Walks
…So you can explore some for yourself!
The Canals of the UK: A Historical and Cultural Exploration
The United Kingdom is renowned for its intricate network of canals, which weave through cities, towns, and the countryside, offering a unique glimpse into the nation’s industrial history and natural beauty.
With over 2,000 miles of navigable waterways, the UK’s canals have evolved from vital industrial arteries to cherished recreational spaces, playing a central role in the country’s heritage and leisure culture.
A Rich History of British Canals
The history of canals in the UK dates back to the Roman era, but it was during the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and early 19th centuries that the canal network truly flourished. Early canals, such as the Bridgewater Canal (opened in 1761), were constructed to transport coal, raw materials, and goods across the country more efficiently than by road or river. These waterways were engineering marvels, featuring locks, aqueducts, and tunnels that revolutionised trade and commerce.
Bridgewater Canal Photo Credit: Inland Waterways Association
By the early 19th century, canals connected major industrial hubs like Birmingham, Manchester, and London, fueling the UK’s economic growth. However, the advent of railways in the mid-19th century led to the decline of canal transportation. By the 20th century, many canals fell into disrepair, with some even being filled in or abandoned.
The post-war period marked the beginning of a revival. Pioneers like the Inland Waterways Association fought to preserve and restore canals for leisure use. Today, many canals have been restored to their former glory, serving as a reminder of the UK’s industrial heritage while providing a haven for wildlife and recreational activities.
How Many Canals Are There in the UK?
The UK’s canal network includes over 2,000 miles of navigable waterways, with more than 1,500 miles fully restored and accessible for public use. Managed by organisations such as the Canal & River Trust, these canals are maintained to allow for activities like walking, cycling, boating, and fishing. Some of the most famous canals include the Regent’s Canal in London (see my blog), the Grand Union Canal, and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, which is the longest canal in the country at 127 miles.
While the majority of canals are navigable, some stretches remain derelict or under restoration. Campaigns led by local volunteers and heritage groups are continuously working to reopen and rejuvenate these forgotten waterways.
Why Are Canals So Popular Today?
Photo Credit: Walk the Canal
The resurgence of canals as recreational spaces is a testament to their unique charm and versatility. There are several reasons for their enduring popularity:
1. Leisure and Recreation
Canals have become havens for outdoor activities. Towpaths are perfect for walking and cycling, offering peaceful routes away from busy roads. Boating on canals, whether on narrowboats, kayaks, or paddleboards, provides a tranquil way to explore the countryside. Anglers are also drawn to canals, which are often rich in fish species.
2. Heritage and History
Canals are living monuments to Britain’s industrial past. Structures like the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the intricate locks at Bingley Five Rise Locks are engineering masterpieces that attract tourists from around the world. Both of these i’ve highlighted in my Top 10!
3. Connection to Nature
Canals are green corridors that support diverse ecosystems. Birds, fish, and aquatic plants thrive along their banks, making them popular for nature enthusiasts. Urban canals, such as those in Birmingham and London, provide an oasis of calm amidst bustling city life.
4. Tourism
Canal-side pubs, cafes, and heritage sites have turned waterways into hubs of tourism. Narrowboat holidays are particularly popular, offering travellers a chance to explore the UK’s countryside at a leisurely pace.
5. Urban Regeneration
In cities, canals have played a central role in regeneration projects. Areas like London’s King’s Cross and Birmingham’s Gas Street Basin have transformed from neglected industrial zones to vibrant cultural and commercial hubs.
Challenges and Conservation Efforts
Despite their popularity, canals face challenges. Maintenance is costly, and the impacts of climate change, such as flooding or drought, threaten the stability of waterways. Organisations like the Canal & River Trust rely on government funding and public donations to ensure canals remain navigable and well-maintained.
Community involvement has been instrumental in canal conservation. Local volunteers often assist with litter-picking, wildlife monitoring, and restoration projects, ensuring that canals remain accessible for future generations.
A guide to the top 10 Canal Walks in the UK
1. Regent’s Canal (Little Venice to Limehouse Basin)
Photo Credit: Marc Jerrard, as seen in my blog (which i did in reverse - from Limehouse to Little Venice).
Route Details:
Distance: 9 miles
Starting Point: Little Venice (near Warwick Avenue station)
End Point: Limehouse Basin
Route Directions:
Route Map: on OS Maps
Or try my reverse loop on OS Maps
Starting Point: Begin at Little Venice (near Warwick Avenue station).
Paddington Basin: Stroll past restaurants and modern architecture at Paddington Basin.
Regent’s Park & London Zoo: Walk through Regent’s Park and enjoy glimpses of animal enclosures at London Zoo.
Camden Market: Pause at Camden Lock for food and shopping.
Islington Tunnel: Follow the towpath to the historic 960-meter-long Islington Tunnel (you’ll need to detour around it, as it’s not walkable).
King’s Cross: Pass by Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard, a revitalized area filled with shops and cafes.
Limehouse Basin: Conclude at the basin where the canal meets the Thames.
Highlights
Camden Market, King’s Cross regeneration, Limehouse Basin views.
2. Kennet & Avon Canal Walk (Bath to Bradford-on-Avon)
Photo Credit: Foxhangers
Route Directions:
Route Map: On AllTrails
Starting Point: Bath: Begin your walk in the historic city of Bath, renowned for its Georgian architecture and Roman baths. Make your way to the Kennet and Avon Canal, which runs through the city. The canal towpath is well-marked and provides a clear route out of Bath.
Along the Route:
Sydney Gardens: Shortly after departing from the city center, you'll pass through Sydney Gardens, one of Britain's oldest public gardens. The canal cuts directly through the park, offering scenic views of classical architecture and manicured landscapes.
Dundas Aqueduct: Approximately 5 miles into your walk, you'll encounter the Dundas Aqueduct, an impressive structure that carries the canal over the River Avon. This is a great spot to pause, take in the views, and perhaps enjoy a picnic.
Avoncliff Aqueduct: A few miles further, you'll come across the Avoncliff Aqueduct. This Grade I listed structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. There are nearby establishments where you can rest and refresh.
Arrival in Bradford-on-Avon: As you approach Bradford-on-Avon, you'll be greeted by the town's historic architecture, including a medieval bridge and a 14th-century tithe barn. The town offers various amenities, including cafes, pubs, and shops, where you can relax after your walk.
Highlights
The iconic Dundas Aqueduct, Historic locks at Bathampton, Scenic Somerset countryside
3. Llangollen Canal Walk (Pontcysyllte Aqueduct)
Photo Credit: Pontcysyllte-Aqueduct
Route Directions:
Route Map: On OS Maps
Starting Point: Start at Trevor Basin Visitor Centre (parking available).
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: Walk across this incredible aqueduct, standing 126 feet above the River Dee.
Froncysyllte: Continue along the towpath to this small village, taking in stunning views of the Dee Valley.
Circular Return: Head back to Trevor Basin along the same towpath or explore nearby woodland trails that loop back.
Optional Add-On: For a longer walk, continue toward Llangollen town (additional 3 miles).
Highlights
UNESCO-listed Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Stunning views over the Dee Valley
4. The Montgomery Canal (Welshpool to Berriew)
Photo Credit: Visit Mid Wales
Route Directions:
Route Map: On Route You
Starting Point: Begin at Welshpool Wharf (easily accessible from the town center).
Towpath South: Follow the canal towpath toward Berriew, enjoying tranquil countryside and waterway views.
Glansevern Hall Gardens: Stop to explore these impressive gardens (entry fee applies).
Berriew: Reach the picturesque village with its half-timbered houses and canal-side pub, the Horseshoes Inn.
Return Options:
Retrace your steps for a round trip.
Arrange for transportation back to Welshpool.
Highlights
Tranquil countryside, Rare wildlife
5. Bingley Five Rise Locks (Leeds & Liverpool Canal)
Photo Credit: Walking Englishman
Route Directions:
Route Map: On OS Maps
Starting Point: Start at the Five Rise Locks in Bingley, an engineering marvel of five connected locks.
Towpath North: Walk along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal heading toward Dowley Gap Aqueduct.
Aqueduct Views: Pause at Dowley Gap Aqueduct, which offers views over the River Aire and countryside.
Circular Return: Return along the same path, taking time to enjoy local wildlife and canal-side cafes.
Highlights
The engineering marvel of Five Rise Locks, Beautiful Yorkshire Dales scenery
6. Grand Union Canal (Stoke Bruerne to Blisworth Tunnel)
Photo Credit: Narrowboat World
Route Directions:
Route Map: On OS Maps
Or a circular Route Map: On AllTrails
Starting Point: Begin at the Canal Museum in Stoke Bruerne.
Towpath South: Follow the towpath southward past traditional narrowboats and scenic Northamptonshire countryside.
Blisworth Tunnel Entrance: Reach the entrance to Blisworth Tunnel, one of the longest canal tunnels in the UK.
Circular Return: Turn back to Stoke Bruerne, stopping for refreshments at a local pub or tea room.
Optional Activity: Take a boat trip into the Blisworth Tunnel if available.
Highlights
Historic Stoke Bruerne village, Views of the Blisworth Tunnel entrance
7. Caledonian Canal Walk (Fort Augustus to Kytra Lock)
Photo Credit: Scottish Canals
Route Directions:
Route Map: On OS Maps
Starting Point: Begin at the locks in Fort Augustus.
Towpath North: Walk along the peaceful canal towpath through the Great Glen.
Kytra Lock: Reach this serene spot surrounded by forest and open views of the Scottish Highlands.
Return: Retrace your steps to Fort Augustus.
Optional Add-On: Extend the walk to Cullochy Lock for more scenery (an additional 2 miles).
Highlights
Loch Ness views, Scottish Highlands scenery
8. Oxford Canal Walk (Oxford to Thrupp)
Photo Credit: GPS Routes
Route Directions:
Route Map: On OS Maps (this route map ends a little further in Shipton on Cherwell)
Starting Point: Start in the Jericho area of Oxford (near Hythe Bridge Street).
Towpath North: Follow the towpath through the outskirts of Oxford, passing Wolvercote and Godstow.
Kidlington: Continue through countryside to Kidlington, where you’ll encounter narrowboats and wildlife.
Thrupp: End at Thrupp, a charming canal-side village.
Return Options:
Walk back for a longer round trip.
Take a bus or taxi from Thrupp to Oxford.
Highlights
Charming villages like Wolvercote, Rustic countryside
9. Forth & Clyde Canal Walk (Falkirk Wheel to The Kelpies)
Photo Credit: Scotland’s Great Trails
Route Directions:
Route Map: On OS Maps, or on AllTrails
Starting Point: Begin at the Falkirk Wheel Visitor Centre.
Towpath East: Follow the towpath through woodland and open fields toward The Helix Park.
The Kelpies: Marvel at the 30-meter-high horse-head sculptures, a tribute to Scotland’s industrial heritage.
Return: Retrace your steps to the Falkirk Wheel.
Optional Add-On: Explore The Helix Park’s walking trails or visit Callendar House.
Highlights
The Falkirk Wheel, The stunning Kelpies sculptures
10. Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal Walk (Brecon to Brynich Lock)
Photo Credit: Visit Monmouthshire
Route Directions:
Route Map: On AllTrails
Starting Point: Start at Brecon Basin, a short walk from Brecon town center.
Towpath South: Walk south along the towpath, with the Brecon Beacons providing a dramatic backdrop.
Brynich Lock: Reach this peaceful lock, surrounded by rolling hills and countryside.
Return: Walk back to Brecon.
Optional Add-On: Extend the walk to Pencelli (an additional 2 miles) for more rural views.
Highlights
Views of the Brecon Beacons, Serene rural landscapes
General Tips for Canal Walks
Maps: Use an Ordnance Survey map or a navigation app like OS Maps, AllTrails.
Provisions: Bring water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some towpaths can be uneven.
Season: These walks are beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly stunning scenery.
Safety: Towpaths can be slippery, so tread carefully near the water.
Acommodation: Book in advance, especially in peak walking seasons.
Respect the environment: Please always remember the Leave No Trace Principles
Conclusion
The canals of the UK are more than just waterways; they are cultural treasures that connect the past with the present. From their industrial origins to their modern role as recreational spaces, canals have continually adapted to meet the needs of society.
With over 1,500 miles of accessible waterways and ongoing restoration efforts, these historic corridors of water continue to captivate visitors and locals alike.
As tranquil retreats and bustling hubs of activity, the UK’s canals are a testament to the enduring legacy of innovation and community spirit.
As Always
Happy Hiking!
Marc