Walking is one of the nicest ways to explore our beautiful canals and rivers. Whether you fancy a ten minute stroll or a vigorous all-day hike, by walking along the towpaths you’re guaranteed a traffic-free route and relaxing views of the water.
We work hard to ensure our towpaths are open and accessible so you can enjoy a waterside ramble whatever the time of year.
Aside from lock flights, your path is level and there’s little chance of getting lost.
The unfolding scenery of a canal-side stroll also takes some beating. Where else could you find such a mix of wildlife, architecture, countryside and, of course, the thing that brings it all to life, narrowboats?
Joining one of the guided walks that regularly take place along our canals and rivers is a great way to explore new places and meet new friends.
SVCC is indebted to the Heritage Lottery Fund for providing a substantial grant towards the restoration of the canal.
Part of the grant went towards making the towpath as user-friendly as possible for all abilities and much of it has been restored to 2m wide with an excellent surface which has proved to be extremely popular and resilient for all users. It was not possible to make the width consistent throughout the whole length so be aware that there are some narrow points along the canal, particularly by bridges, and in one or two places, a diversion has been signed for disabled users.