
Bridgwater and Taunton Canal
A tranquil waterway offering scenic walks, cycling, boating, and watersports, with historical echoes along its flat, accessible towpath.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Bridgwater and Taunton Canal
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil waterway offering scenic walks, cycling, boating, and watersports, with historical echoes along its flat, accessible towpath.
"A little slice of paradise. Very friendly staff, beautiful location."

🚶♀️ Perfect for Walks
The flat towpath is ideal for easy strolls, dog walks, and even longer hikes. Dog bins are available.
🚲 Cycle Friendly
Enjoy cycling along the canal; it's a favorite route for many locals.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Towpath Trails
Entire length of the canal
Enjoy peaceful walks or cycles along the flat, scenic towpath, spotting wildlife and historical remnants.

Narrowboat Adventures
Somerset Boat Centre
Experience the canal from the water with self-drive narrowboat hire for a relaxing day out.

Historical Echoes
Various points along the canal
Discover remnants of WWII history, including pillboxes, offering a glimpse into the past.

Watersports Fun
Various access points
Paddleboarding and kayaking offer a refreshing way to explore the canal's serene waters.
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Planning Your Visit
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Boat Hire & Activities
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Insider Tips
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🚶♀️ Perfect for Walks
The flat towpath is ideal for easy strolls, dog walks, and even longer hikes. Dog bins are available.
🚲 Cycle Friendly
Enjoy cycling along the canal; it's a favorite route for many locals.
🚤 Book Boat Hire Early
Self-drive narrowboat hire is popular, so book your day trip in advance.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Free parking is available near bridge no. 26, but it closes at 6 PM.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Perfect for Walks
The flat towpath is ideal for easy strolls, dog walks, and even longer hikes. Dog bins are available.
🚲 Cycle Friendly
Enjoy cycling along the canal; it's a favorite route for many locals.
🚤 Book Boat Hire Early
Self-drive narrowboat hire is popular, so book your day trip in advance.
🅿️ Parking Availability
Free parking is available near bridge no. 26, but it closes at 6 PM.
💧 Watersports Welcome
Kayaks and paddleboards are great for exploring; check local rental options.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal as a 'slice of paradise' offering peaceful walks, cycling, and watersports. The flat towpath, scenic beauty, and opportunities for wildlife spotting are frequently praised. Some mention historical remnants like WWII pillboxes, adding an interesting dimension. While generally positive, some reviews note graffiti on historical structures.
"very good for paddle boarding, we have managed to do the entire canal 24.1 km in eight hours of continuous paddling on our kayaks!"
Mircea Balogh
"A little slice of paradise.
Very friendly staff, beautiful location.
Open Thursday to Sunday.
Fish and chip cruise, paddle board and canoe hire, boat hire… perfect!"
Adam Appleby
"Lovely walks along the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal - easy stroll along the canal side toe path. It's a recreational place.
We started off on this leg from the Fair Field in Bridgwater Somerset, went along, under the M5 and along out towards 'the Zoylands' ...
We went past 3 or 4 WWII Pillboxes which formed part of 'the Taunton Stop Line', to try and stop part of an inland river invasion. Of course, these pillboxes are overgrown, but you can see in to some of them. Sadly a few are covered in the scourge of graffiti.
You could walk all the way to Taunton, but we didn't get that far. We'll carry on next time. It's a pleasant walk, no climbing involved. A pub or two along the way also."
Stu Loveday
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The canal is accessible from both Bridgwater and Taunton. You can reach it by car, with parking available at various points, or via public transport. Bus timetables for routes serving the canal area can be found on the First Bus Somerset website.
Yes, free parking is available, notably near bridge number 26. However, be aware that this car park closes at 6 PM.
The towpath is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for wheelchairs and strollers for much of its length. Some sections may be more challenging after recent improvements.
Key access points include Bridgwater Docks, Taunton town center, and various smaller villages and bridges along the route, such as Creech St Michael.
Both towns have clear signage directing towards the canal. In Taunton, you can access it near the River Tone, and in Bridgwater, the docks are a prominent starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the towpath for walking and cycling is free. You only need to purchase tickets or hire for specific activities like boat trips or rentals.
Self-drive narrowboat hire for a day trip typically costs around £180 and includes instruction. Prices can vary, so it's best to contact the hire company directly for current rates.
The Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is a public waterway, and there are no general entry fees for accessing or using the towpath.
Yes, dogs are welcome along the canal towpath. There are dog bins available to help keep the area clean.
Yes, events like the Community Canal Run take place annually, attracting many participants and spectators. Keep an eye on local event listings for updates.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors enjoy walking or cycling the towpath, while others opt for a relaxing narrowboat trip or kayaking. The best experience depends on your preference for activity and scenery.
Walking the entire 24.1 km (approx. 15 miles) of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal can take around 8 hours of continuous paddling or walking, depending on your pace and stops.
Yes, there are pubs and cafes located along the canal route, offering opportunities to rest and refuel during your visit.
You can spot various bird species, including herons, and other local wildlife. The serene environment makes it a great spot for nature observation.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, canals in the UK are often used for fishing. Check local regulations and permits if you plan to fish.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are pubs and cafes situated along the canal, providing places to eat and drink. Some offer specific cruises like fish and chip trips.
Absolutely! The canal banks offer many scenic spots perfect for a picnic. Remember to take any rubbish with you.
Yes, some boat hire services offer special 'fish and chip cruises' for a unique dining experience on the water.
Canal-side pubs typically offer traditional pub fare, including meals and lighter options, perfect for a break during a walk or cycle.
While specific menus aren't detailed, most pubs and cafes offer a range of options, and it's always worth asking about vegetarian or vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire length offers picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Bridges, locks, and the surrounding nature provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Yes, taking photos from a narrowboat or kayak offers unique perspectives of the canal and its banks. Be mindful of stability and water safety.
Look out for the WWII pillboxes along the 'Taunton Stop Line,' which offer a fascinating historical element to your photos.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Yes, in certain sections, you might be able to photograph trains passing by, especially if they run parallel to the canal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚴♀️ Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Towpath: Walking & Cycling
Recent volunteer efforts have focused on improving waterside safety and disabled access, including repairing bridges and resurfacing footpaths, enhancing the overall experience for all visitors. While the entire canal can be traversed in a day, many choose to explore specific sections, stopping at pubs or cafes along the way. The presence of dog bins scattered along the route is a thoughtful touch for pet owners.
On the Water: Boating & Watersports
For those seeking more active pursuits, kayaking and paddleboarding are excellent ways to explore the canal's serene waters. Visitors have successfully completed the entire canal length on kayaks in about eight hours, highlighting its suitability for watersports. The calm waters make it a great environment for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Some operators even offer 'fish and chip cruises,' combining a boat trip with a meal for a memorable outing.
A Glimpse into History
These historical sites serve as a reminder of the region's strategic importance during wartime. While some pillboxes may be covered in graffiti, their presence adds a layer of intrigue to the canal's landscape. The canal itself has a rich industrial heritage, originally built to facilitate trade and transport. Understanding this history can deepen your appreciation for the waterway's significance.




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