Take a stroll along 11 miles of this beautiful canal in the heart of Somerset
The Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is a historic landmark with fascinating lock structures and a well-maintained towpath. It’s an ideal spot for an idyllic and calming country walk among the great outdoors.
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Bridgewater & Taunton Canal.
What’s it all about?
As the name implies, the canal connects the towns of Bridgwater and Taunton. However, the route itself is mostly rural. It’s a truly remarkable spot to take a stroll, especially for nature enthusiasts who may want to go looking for interesting and unique wildlife.
The canal skirts its way around the base of the picturesque Quantock Hills for approximately 14 miles between the two towns with plenty of interesting sights to see along the whole route.
What can I expect to see?
Originally, the route was part of a grand plan to link the English and Bristol channels together. Today the canal way is a self-contained unit, cut off from the rest of Britains canal network but still well-maintained.
The route still contains many of the original locks assisting barges loaded with grain and iron ore cargo to traverse between the Taunton and Bridgwater docks. At Maunsel lock, visitors will find a relaxing picnic area to enjoy refreshments from the small cafe next to the canal.
Nature lovers will really enjoy the copious amounts of wildlife that call the area around the canal their home. The wetland habitat is carefully managed to support wildlife, including large stocks of fish, particularly roach, pike, perch, carp, bream, and tench. This rich food supply attracts kingfishers and herons in spring. Once summer rolls around, the wildflowers along the banks are alive with butterflies, crickets, dragonflies, and damselflies.
Where is Bridgwater & Taunton Canal located from the Bridgwater Drop Off?
We’ve included a Google Maps route to help guide you there.
Where is Bridgwater & Taunton Canal located from the Taunton Drop Off?
We’ve included a Google Maps route to help guide you there.
How do I get there from Bridgwater and Taunton?
Taunton:
The start of the canal route is less than 10 minutes from the Berrys Coaches drop-off in Taunton. When you step off the coach, take a left down Station Road and then take the first right onto Priory Road.
Take the immediate left onto Canal Road and keep walking for approximately a quarter of a mile. You will see Firepool Lock on your right which marks the beginning of the canal route from Taunton.
Bridgwater:
The start of the canal route begins in Bridgwater docks, approximately 11 minutes away from the Bridgwater Coach station and Berrys drop-off point. Exit the coach station and head north along Carvers Road for roughly 50 metres.
You will have the River Parrett on your left and the telescopic bridge that runs across it. Cross this bridge then turn right onto Valetta Place. On your left you will come to Bridgwater docks. At the far end of the docks is the entrance to the canal route.
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