Coach Trips to The Grand Western Canal Heritage Trail with Berrys
Discover the tranquillity and historical charm of the Grand Western Canal Heritage Trail, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of picturesque Wellington. This serene and scenic trail offers a lush escape, boasting an abundance of natural beauty admirably juxtaposed with fascinating heritage landmarks. Visitors will find themselves enveloped in the serene embrace of nature while walking or cycling along the towpaths framed by vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery.
Whether you are a history enthusiast keen to learn more about the canal’s storied past or a nature lover eager to soak in the sights and sounds of the English countryside, the Grand Western Canal is an inviting destination. Join us on a journey through this idyllic piece of England, a perfect day out for anyone looking to explore beyond the beaten track. Experience this delightful destination with Berrys Coaches, your premier choice for comfortable and convenient travel.
Our convenient drop-off and pick-up points make travelling to Wellington stress-free, while our modern coaches ensure a relaxing journey to this beautiful part of Devon.
What is the history of the Grand Western Canal?
The section of the canal running past Wellington, completed in 1838, was a marvel of technological innovation. Because the rolling Somerset hills were too steep for traditional water-saving canal locks, engineers designed a pioneering system using small, rectangular “tub-boats” fitted with wheels. Instead of floating through locks, these boats were laden with local limestone and physically hauled out of the water, up and down hills using massive, water-balance hydraulic boat lifts and inclined planes—including the historic lift at nearby Nynehead.
Though this section was closed and drained in 1867 after being bought out by the Bristol and Exeter Railway, the historic line of the canal has been preserved as a beautiful, wooded public footpath. Walking along the old towpath today allows visitors to spot ancient stone bridges, explore the excavated masonry of the world’s earliest canal lifts, and see how nature has beautifully reclaimed this former industrial artery.
What things can I do at The Grand Western Canal Heritage Trail?
Visitors at the Grand Western Canal have plenty of activities to choose from, keeping both the avid adventurer and the leisure-seeker thoroughly entertained. Walking and cycling enthusiasts will find the 11-mile towpath to be a pathway to peace, offering uninterrupted views of the serene canal waters and bustling wildlife. Nature enthusiasts, in particular, will revel in the diversity of flora and fauna, with opportunities for bird watching or enjoying a peaceful picnic along the banks.
For those interested in a more active experience, hiring a rowing or electric boat offers a fresh perspective of the canal. For families, exploring the local wildlife on organised nature trails can be a captivating experience. There’s also an informative visitor centre, detailing the history and engineering marvel of the canal – an educational pit stop for curious minds.
What are the Directions from Berrys Coaches Drop-off?
The nearest Berrys Drop Off is located at the Longforth Car Park in Wellington. We’ve included a Google Maps route to help guide you there.
How do I get there from the Berrys Drop Off?
Upon arriving via the Berrys Coaches London Superfast service, you are positioned in the heart of the historic Somerset market town of Wellington. While the fully watered, navigable section of the Grand Western Canal Country Park (famous for its horse-drawn barges) is located a 25-minute drive away in Tiverton, Devon, Wellington offers direct walking access to the fascinating historic disused section of the same canal network.
To explore the industrial heritage trails right from the coach:
Exit Longforth Car Park and head north along Longforth Road, crossing Church Green onto North Street. Follow the road as it transitions past the edge of town and turns into Nynehead Road.
Continue north for approximately 1.5 miles, crossing the River Tone, until you reach the quiet lanes of Nynehead village.
Just before reaching Nynehead Court, you will cross the clear, historic path of the disused canal bed. From here, you can join the waymarked Grand Western Canal Heritage Trail, following the wooded towpath eastward to view the spectacular, excavated archaeological remains of the canal’s pioneering engineering.
What Other Things Can I Do Nearby?
Beyond the Grand Western Canal, Wellington invites you to explore its wealth of attractions. History buffs can tour the Wellington Museum for a deeper dive into the region’s local heritage. For those seeking panoramic views, a visit to the Wellington Monument, perched atop the Blackdown Hills, is a must. Shopping enthusiasts and foodies alike will relish in exploring the town’s bustling markets and eateries, each offering unique local specialities.
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