Welcome to Kennet and Avon Canal

The Kennet and Avon Canal is a picturesque waterway that stretches across the southern English counties of Berkshire, Wiltshire, and Somerset. This historic canal, which was completed in 1810, was originally designed to provide a vital trade route between the bustling cities of London and Bristol. Spanning a distance of 87 miles, the canal is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the engineers and laborers who constructed it. Today, the Kennet and Avon Canal in Berkshire is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a serene and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

One of the most striking features of the Kennet and Avon Canal in Berkshire is its diverse and picturesque landscape. As the canal meanders through the county, it passes through a variety of environments, including rolling countryside, charming villages, and historic market towns. The canal is also home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. In particular, the canal is known for its thriving population of water voles, which are a protected species in the UK. Additionally, the canal's towpaths provide an excellent opportunity for walkers, cyclists, and horse riders to explore the beautiful Berkshire countryside at a leisurely pace.

The Kennet and Avon Canal in Berkshire also boasts a rich and fascinating history. The construction of the canal was a monumental undertaking, involving the excavation of miles of earth and the building of numerous locks, bridges, and aqueducts. Many of these historic structures can still be seen and admired today, such as the impressive Caen Hill flight of locks in Devizes, which consists of 29 locks in a row, and the Dundas and Avoncliff Aqueducts. The canal played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, facilitating the transport of goods such as coal, timber, and agricultural produce between London and Bristol. However, with the advent of the railway in the mid-19th century, the canal's importance as a trade route began to decline, and by the early 20th century, it had fallen into disrepair. Thankfully, a dedicated group of volunteers and enthusiasts worked tirelessly to restore the canal to its former glory, and in 1990, the Kennet and Avon Canal was officially reopened for navigation.