Burghfield Lock
A charming manual lock on the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering peaceful walks and a glimpse into traditional waterway life.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More boaters for lock assistance
Burghfield Lock
Best Time
More boaters for lock assistance
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming manual lock on the Kennet and Avon Canal, offering peaceful walks and a glimpse into traditional waterway life.
"It's a peaceful and very beautiful spot for walking by the river."
🤝 Lock Assistance
Be prepared to help others or ask for help operating the manual lock.
🚶♀️ Towpath Trails
The towpath is perfect for peaceful walks and cycling.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 41 reviews
Website
canalrivertrust.org.ukHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manual Lock Operation
Burghfield Lock
Experience the charm of a manually operated lock, a hands-on part of canal life.
Peaceful Riverside Walk
Kennet and Avon Canal towpath
Enjoy a serene walk along the towpath, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Burghfield Mill Weir
Near Burghfield Lock
Witness the weir, a key feature of the canal system, especially interesting when breached.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Lock Operation & Timing
Water Levels & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Lock Assistance
Be prepared to help others or ask for help operating the manual lock.
🚶♀️ Towpath Trails
The towpath is perfect for peaceful walks and cycling.
🎣 Fishing Spots
Good for fishing, but check river levels for best results.
⚠️ Damaged Gates
Gates can sometimes be damaged but usually still function.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Lock Assistance
Be prepared to help others or ask for help operating the manual lock.
🚶♀️ Towpath Trails
The towpath is perfect for peaceful walks and cycling.
🎣 Fishing Spots
Good for fishing, but check river levels for best results.
⚠️ Damaged Gates
Gates can sometimes be damaged but usually still function.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Burghfield Lock a peaceful spot for riverside walks and observing manual lock operations. While the lock itself is simple, the surrounding canal towpath offers beautiful scenery and a tranquil escape. Some reviews mention occasional damage to lock gates and the impact of water level changes due to weir breaches. +2
"Small manual Lock that you can find walking by the river. I really recommend walking around here. It's peaceful and very beautiful"
aitz i
"It's a lock on a canal. This week however the more interesting thing is that the weir at Burghfield Mill has been breached and drained the canal."
Andy Meighen
"Fantastic time to get the bike out and cycle along the tow path beside the Kennet."
Dave Webster
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Burghfield Lock is accessible via the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath. You can reach the towpath by car, with parking available in nearby villages like Burghfield Common. Cycling or walking along the canal is also a popular way to arrive.
While there isn't direct public transport to the lock itself, bus routes serve nearby villages. From there, you can walk or cycle to the canal. Check local bus schedules for routes serving Burghfield.
Yes, the towpath along the Kennet and Avon Canal is a fantastic route for cycling. It's generally flat and offers scenic views, making it a popular choice for cyclists.
The lock is situated between Reading and Newbury. Nearby villages include Burghfield Common and Mortimer.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Burghfield Lock is a part of the public waterway and does not have an entry fee for visitors walking or cycling along the towpath.
As a manual lock, it doesn't have set operating hours in the same way as automated locks. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours. If you are boating, coordination with other boaters is key.
No booking is required for general visitors. If you are a boater, you will typically coordinate with other boats to operate the lock together.
The main consideration is water levels, especially if the weir at Burghfield Mill has been breached. Always be mindful of the canal environment and any local advisories.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy peaceful walks along the towpath, observe the manual lock operation, and appreciate the natural beauty of the canal. It's also a nice spot for fishing. +1
Yes, the peaceful towpath offers many scenic spots ideal for a picnic. Remember to take all your litter with you.
Burghfield Lock is a popular spot for fishing, but it's recommended to check the river levels as they can affect conditions. Ensure you have the appropriate fishing licenses.
The terrain is primarily a flat, well-maintained towpath, making it easy for walking and cycling.
Yes, the lock, the canal, and the surrounding countryside offer picturesque scenes, especially during different seasons.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Burghfield Lock. You'll need to visit nearby villages like Burghfield Common or Mortimer for cafes and pubs.
Absolutely! It's a great place for a picnic. Just be sure to pack out everything you bring in to keep the area clean.
Social
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