Adorned with stunning scenery and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Kennet & Avon Canal is a wonderful way to travel along the Great West Way. Embark on a journey through England's most iconic destinations bas you explore by narrowboat, bike or on foot!
Looked after by the Canal and River Trust, the Kennet and Avon Canal passes through beautiful countryside and some of England’s most historic cities, towns and landmarks. Whether you choose to embark on boat trip up stream, or cycle with the family along the waters edge, there is plenty to explore across this ribbon of beauty.
For over 200 years, boats have cruised along the canal and today, many can enjoy a peaceful trip along these tranquil waters by narrowboat. Slow travel will allow you to appreciate the finer details of the Great West Way route, and some hidden gems that can often be missed when travelling in other ways.
Kennet Horse Boat Company
For a unique and historical experience along the Kennet and Avon Canal, be sure to book a Horse-drawn boat trip with Kennet Horse Boat Company! Environmentally friendly and with very few left in the UK, these horse-drawn barges offer enjoyable experiences whilst keeping England’s 19th Century heritage well and truly alive!
Available in Berkshire’s beautiful countryside, Kennet Horse Boat Company offers trips during the day into early evening. Whether you are looking to relax and get away from it all, make the best of a rainy day, celebrate a special event, or do something different, this is an outing enjoyed by all!
Honeystreet Boats
Head to the picturesque Honeystreet Mill in Pewsey Vale and embark on a self-guided narrowboat cruise along Wiltshire’s stretch of the Kennet and Avon Canal. Explore 15-miles of stunning scenery between Wootton Rivers and Devizes as you enjoy a day of relaxation with no locks in sight!
From April 4th – September 17th Honeystreet Boats offer evening cruises on board Honey Days, with the option of self-drive or to have a Captain at an additional cost. This is the perfect way to enjoy a lovely warm evening along the canal!
Sally Narrowboats
Based on the other side of Wiltshire, in the picturesque town of Bradford on Avon, Sally Narrowboats offer week and day hire on their canal boats. With the city of Bath just a short trip along the canal, and flexibility to travel east towards Reading, Sally Narrowboats allows you to discover all parts of the Kennet and Avon Canal! Learn how to operate locks and swing bridges before embarking on a fully independent journey this season.
The Kennet and Avon Canal passes through several towns and cities along the Great West Way, offering great opportunities to discover more of historic England with famous landmarks just a short distance away.
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Vale of Pewsey
Forming the western extent of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Vale of Pewsey showcases some of the most picturesque scenes along the canal. With settlements dating back to 3000BC, the Vale of Pewsey boasts a rich and interesting history with plenty to discover along its walking routes.
Devizes
Host to one of the most famous landmarks along the Kennet and Avon Canal, Devizes is Wiltshire’s historic market town with plenty to explore within its Medieval past. Whether by narrowboat or on foot, be sure to pass through the Caen Hill flight, a triumph of Georgian engineering with 29 locks stretching over 2 miles!
Bradford on Avon
Bradford on Avon features two waterways with the river Avon merging into the Kennet and Avon canal. Situated on Bath’s doorstep and on the edge of the Cotswolds AONB, this picturesque town offers plenty, with a range of independent stores, restaurants and historic features throughout.
Bristol
Tour the far west parts of the Kennet and Avon Canal and you will reach the vibrant city of Bristol. This cultural and historic city boasts a range of iconic landmarks with its rich maritime heritage, including Brunel’s SS Great Britain and Clifton Suspension Bridge. Home to world-renowned graffiti artist, Banksy, be sure to browse Bristol’s colourful streets as its walls are filled with the well-known pieces.
Reading
On the other end of the Kennet and Avon Canal is the modern city of Reading. Located between the river Thames and the Kennet, Reading offers both the excitement of a modern city, with a slice of English heritage. Stroll along the Kennet to find stunning parkland, an array of independent shops and historical landmarks such as the impressive Abbey Ruins.
Passing through countryside, market towns and picturesque villages, the Kennet and Avon Canal offers an abundance of natural beauty and heritage. All year round, make the most of eco-travel along the Great West Way, with a trip by bike or on foot today!
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Cycling
For scenic routes along the Great West Way, a cycle ride on the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath is one not to miss! Enjoy easy terrain, ideal for all ages, as you get close to nature this year. Alternatively, you can focus on the busier routes by setting out on a journey through bustling cities that sit along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
Walking
Take in breath-taking sites as you indulge in a peaceful walk along the Kennet and Avon Canal this season. Perfect for both long and short walks, the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath allows individuals to embark on a flexible journey, taking in all that’s around them with ease. Pass a range of historic sites including Dundas Aqueduct and Caen Hill before stopping by nearby towns for the perfect picnic location.
Embark on your own journey along the Kennet and Avon Canal this season…
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