Moor your Anglo Welsh narrowboat for canal side walks

One of the joys of a canal boat journey is the relaxing sensation that comes from being on the water, but even canal-faring stalwarts have to occasionally venture on dry land if they want to stretch their legs.

“The unfolding scenery of a canal stroll really takes some beating and the waterways of England and Wales are full of picturesque and accessible walking routes,” says Kev Yarwood, Anglo Welsh base manager at Great Haywood. “Whether it’s a gentle morning stroll or an energetic all-day hike, walking along a towpath is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”

Where else can you experience such a timeless medley of pastoral views, indigenous wildlife and architectural heritage? Not to mention your vessel of choice, a handsome Anglo Welsh narrowboat. “As for people whose more energetic days are behind them,” notes Kev, “canal paths have the added bonus of being flat!”

A canal boat holiday certainly gives you the freedom to roam. Anglo Welsh narrowboats can be hired from eleven different bases in England and Wales, and every single circuit is blessed with walks galore.

From Wootton Wawen, you can moor on the River Avon beside the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and take a relaxing stroll around Stratford-upon-Avon. And for those who do enjoy steep walks, crossing the spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct from Trevor to the pretty mountainside town of Llangollen is a memorable experience.

From Anglo Welsh’s base at Sydney Wharf in historic Bath there’s a lovely circular route along the Kennet and Avon Canal that takes walkers past the elaborately decorated pump house chimney on the towpath at Abbey View lock and across the world-famous Pulteney Bridge. Elsewhere on the Kennet and Avon, the flight of 16 locks at Devizes is the perfect starting point to discover the 87-mile canal’s industrial heritage.

On the Grand Union Canal near Stockton, the historic Hatton Lock Flight is known as the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ because of the stunning views across to Warwick Cathedral. Nearby, the Staffordshire & Worcester Canal around Great Haywood is a haven for wildlife where you can spot herons and kingfishers on your walk. There’s every chance you will also witness the hullabaloo of a mass flight of geese flapping and honking through the sky.

Anglo Welsh’s knowledgeable staff at our well-located eleven bases will be delighted to point you towards the best canal-hugging walks on their local patch. Watch this space in the coming months for some of their favourite itineraries!

To make a booking please call our friendly Booking Office on 0117 304 1122. They will be delighted to recommend some great canal walks.