The Oxford Canal

Meandering waterways, peaceful villages and the chance to visit the world famous City of Oxford by boat

The picturesque 77-mile long Oxford Canal was completed in 1790.  It links the City of Oxford and the River Thames, with the Cathedral City of Coventry at Hawkesbury Junction.

Following the contours around hills, rather than using cuttings and embankments like later canals, this largely rural waterway meanders gently through the countryside.  The waterways is dotted with pretty villages, rural pubs, black-and-white lift bridges and nature reserves.

Once the main transport route from the Midlands to the south of England, it’s now one of the most popular and beautiful canal boat holidays routes.