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Tiverton Canal Co

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TIVERTON CANAL CO - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

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Tiverton Canal Co

Tiverton Canal Co is a family run living heritage attraction with one of the last horse-drawn barges in Great Britain.

• Experience travel into the past at 2mph, a time before steam was invented, by taking a trip aboard the horse-drawn barge, along the 200 year old Grand Western Canal , feed the ducks, spot the kingfishers and wildlife.
• Hire a rowing boat or Canadian canoe and start your own adventure.
• Relax aboard the unique floating canal barge café bar the Ducks Ditty with the only canal-side beer garden in Devon!
• Let your children’s imagination go wild in the new boat themed play area.

There are so many things to see and do along the Canal Country Park nature reserve. Bring a picnic, your bikes, your walking shoes… you can easily spend a day making memories, enjoying Devon’s historic canal.

• Charges apply for Horse-drawn barge trips and boat hire – visit website for further information.
• The Wharf, Canal Hill, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 4HX
• See website for full timetable
• www.tivertoncanal.co.uk
• 01884 253345
• [email protected]

Café Nature and Wildlife Activity & Adventure Heritage & Culture

Information

• Price Charges apply for Horse-drawn barge trips and boat hire – visit website for further information.
• Address The Wharf, Canal Hill, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 4HX
• Opening times See website for full timetable
• Website link www.tivertoncanal.co.uk
• Phone number 01884 253345
• Email [email protected]
• Nature and Wildlife
• Activity & Adventure
• Heritage & Culture

Privacy Overview

Grand Western Canal

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Grand Western Canal - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.32 mi) Tiverton Hotel & Lounge
• (0.36 mi) Chestnut House
• (0.34 mi) Hornhill
• (0.48 mi) Premier Inn Tiverton hotel
• (0.41 mi) The Lowman
• (0.10 mi) Canal Tea Rooms and Garden
• (0.08 mi) The Ducks Ditty Bar
• (0.45 mi) Frou Frou
• (0.56 mi) Ponte Vecchio
• (0.45 mi) The Flying Pickle

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• About the canal

Horse Drawn Barge

• Links and information

Boats for sale

• Terms & Privacy
• GDPR Statment

Welcome to Mid Devon Moorings

Mid Devon Moorings has its home on the Grand Western Canal Country Park and local nature reserve, which meanders through the picturesque and beautiful Devon countryside.

The canal extends for eleven and a quarter miles from the basin in Tiverton through quaint and charming villages up to Lowdwells (near the Somerset border). The canal provides wonderful level walks and bike rides along its miles of nature adorned tow paths. There is a slipway for those that would like to take to the water, or you could experience a ride on-board the much-loved horse-drawn barge that has been taking passengers for trips along the canal since 1974.

About the Canal

The origins of the canal come about as part of an ambitious plan to link the Bristol Channel to the English Channel. The Grand Western Canal was proposed as a way to stop shipping sailing around the perilous Cornish peninsular and providing a route for transporting goods, including coal from South Wales into Somerset and Devon.

The section from Tiverton to the Limestone quarries at Westleigh (known locally as the Tiverton Canal) was completed in 1814, but due to the use of steep embankments and deep cuttings (to keep the canal level) the cost spiralled; as a result the next section to Taunton was delayed for a good many years, by this time plans of continuing south and linking to the English Channel had been long abandoned.

The canal itself is maintained by Devon County Council as part of the local Country Park so it remains very unspoilt and un-comercialised; being a wide canal with no locks and one lift bridge at just under a 2 meter air draft on the lowest bridge; it is a relatively non-strenuous stress free navigation.

For more information on the canal please visit The Grand Western Canal website.

To see the canal in a down-loadable map Click Here.

Mid Devon Moorings (formally Mid Devon Hire Boats & Moorings) have a number of beautiful moorings on the Grand Western Canal located near East Manley bridge and have been welcoming craft here since 2004. The moorings are ideally located in a quiet and tranquil part of the canal right next to a winding hole, where each afternoon in the summer months you can watch the Horse-drawn barge turn around for its return journey of 2 miles to Tiverton. You too can chose to take the walk down the canal to the historic town of Tiverton or we are just 10 minutes by car from the M5 motorway connecting you to the rest of the Southwest.

Facilities at the moorings include:

• Wooden linear landing & stage walkway
• Maintenance landing with electrical point
• Toilet pump-out & rubbish disposal
• On site car park & lawn area
• Water, Fuel, & Gas
• We are also able to offer a winter lift out & maintenance service.

We can offer short and long terms moorings.

We regret that we are unable to offer residential moorings.

Cruisers are very welcome on the canal and can be launched with ease up to 25ft (7.5 meters) long from the Boehill slipway.

The slipway is in Sampford Peverell and located just a few minutes from the M5 motorway J27.You can use the post code EX16 7EG to guide you in by satellite navigation, then simply follow the signpost up the lane.

More information regarding the slipway including maps, directions and canal Terms & Conditions can be found by visiting the Grand Western Canal Website.

The canal has a very good craneage area for narrow boats available in the car park at Tiverton Road Bridge (nearest Postcode: EX16 4NG) near the village of Halberton.

If you are thinking of bringing your Narrow boat to the Grand Western Canal, but are unsure about haulage and craneage please get in touch as we have a list of good reputable local companies that can be of assistance. In fact if you have any questions we will be happy to answer them for you, simply get in touch using the contact section.

The Grand Western Canal is also home to one of Devon's much loved attractions the Horse-drawn Barge. Operating from Easter through until October, the barge makes its way from the Tiverton basin over a leisurely 2 miles before turning in the winding hole right by our moorings and making her way back down the canal to the gentle sound of nature.

Did you know that a winding hole is a wide part of a canal that is used to turn boats? As before motor power the wind was used to help with the turn.

You can find out more about the Horse-drawn barge including the current timetable by visiting their website.

The Tiverton Canal Company

Useful Information & Links

The Grand Western canal is a truly special place, and we can only do it so much justice trough our website. Therefore we have added some links below to other websites that will help you find out more about this wonderful canal and how you can get involved with it or enjoy it to its full potential.

Boat District.

The Grand Western Canal.

The Canal & River Trust.

Friends of the Grand Western Canal.

Apollo Duck (Boats for sale).

The Tiverton Canal Company.

As this lock-free Country Park Canal is also landlocked, boats for sale and mooring facilities are limited, but this pleasantly results in a unique and friendly boat owning community, moored on our peaceful Marina. As boats are not sold with a mooring, a prospective purchaser wishing to remain on the Canal, would need to apply under separate negotiation for a mooring.

Below are the boats we currently have for sale, please click on the image to open details in a new window. Where no image exists, we unfortunately do not have any boats for sale at this time.

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This Site is governed by the Data Protection Act. You have a right under the Act to see the personal records we hold about you. If you want to see your records, please email Pat Brind there may be a small charge for this service - we will, of course, let you know if this is the case.

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Mid Devon Moorings GDPR statement.

What is GDPR? GDPR is an acronym for The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (EU) 2016/679 is a regulation in EU law on data protection and privacy for all individuals within the European Union. It addresses the export of personal data outside the EU. The GDPR aims primarily to give control to citizens and residents over their personal data and to simplify the regulatory environment for international business by unifying the regulation within the EU. It was adopted on 27 April 2016. It becomes enforceable on 25 May 2018, after a two-year transition period. The GDPR replaces the 1995 Data Protection Directive.

How does it affect you? GDPR means that we must tell you what we do with any data you give us and how we intend to use it. How do you find this information? We have a page on our website (this one) explaining how we collect data, what we do with it and how we store/dispose of it after use.

General data about yourselves. In the course of enquiries with MDM you will need to provide a limited amount of data to us so we can process your enquiry for example your email address or phone number, so we can reply to you. In doing that you have provided us with personal or identifiable data and we must protect that data and tell you how we use it.

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Address: Mid Devon Moorings. Orchard Farm, East Manley, Tiverton, Devon. EX16 4NJ

Email: [email protected]

Contact: Pat Brind Telephone: 01884 252178 Mobile: 07749 001631

Copyright © 2017 Mid Devon Moorings

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Tiverton Canal Co

Devon Boat Hire

Devon horse drawn barge, duck's ditty floating cafe bar, hire boats in tiverton, tiverton horse drawn barge, tiverton canal c o -  living heritage attraction one of great britain's last remaining  horse-drawn barges.

Located in Tiverton (Mid Devon), between Exeter and Taunton (J27- M5), On the banks of the beautiful Grand Western Canal   & Local Nature Reserve , Tiverton Canal Co is a truly unique family-owned and run Canal Living Heritage Attraction . With staff and crew dressed in clothing of a bygone era and with large Heavy Horses (including Shires) at the ready. The Brind family are proud to operate one of the very last remaining Horse-Drawn Passenger Barges in Great Britain! 

Experience a truly environmentally friendly Horse Drawn Boat Trip along the stunningly beautiful and tranquil Grand Western Canal country park and local nature reserve. Check out Our Videos Page to see a sneek peak for yourself.

We are also Celebrating our 50 Years from when the Horse-Drawn Barge Attraction Started (1974 - 2024)

For our 50th year anniversary . . . ..

1.  We are running Very Special  'Serenity Sunday Afternoon Trips' (Adults Only) The 2.15pm 2 1/2 Hr return will run with an emphasis on peace and tranquillity for  the whole trip . . to allow everyone on the barge to listen and immerse themselves with this mindfull and magical Horse-Drawn  experience.   (Adults Only  - 14 & Above)

2. We are holding an OPEN DAY!   on 13th July. The Horse-Drawn Barge will be in the Tiverton Wharf all day with events going on in the Wharf . .  2 x Bands, Swing Boats, Food Stalls, Craft Stalls, Ducks Bar, etc . . Bring a blanket and join in the celebrations of our 50th year of the Horse-Drawn Barge. A history wall of the last 50 years of the Horse-Drawn in Tiverton Devon will also be on display

Other Things to See & Do Here . . . .

Or relax with a glass of wine, coffee or ice-cream at the ‘floating-canal-side bar’, The Ducks’ Ditty Cafe-Bar . Go shopping at the Canal Gift Shop , for canal art and gifts or Hire a Boat and have a lot of fun exploring the waterway at your own pace with a Rowing boat or Canadian Canoe .

The Duck’s Ditty Bar is Devon’s only floating canal side Bar, allowing you to enjoy refreshments al fresco by the water. The licenced bar also serves barista coffee, loose-leaf & specialist teas. also sandwiches, sausage rolls and cakes, alongside the award winning Marshfield 'soft scoop' Ice cream .

The Canal Gift Shop can be found in a former stable and is where you can pick up a range of gifts and painted canal ware, as well as book tickets for the horse drawn barge trip or boat hire.

The Grand Western Canal is a Country Park and Local Nature Reserve and is one of Devon’s hidden gems. The canal is open all year with free access to a children’s play area with a canal theme and an excellent educational visitor centre with the history of this waterway and its working horses.

If you're planning a trip to us and you need some other ideas for places to visit in the South West of England, You might find our recent article ' Things to do in Mid Devon ' useful.

Have questions about Tiverton Canal Co, or need more information? Please Call Jacquie on 01884 253345

When is the Tiverton Horse Drawn Barge open and what are the trip times in 2024?

We are open From April to October each year. We run horse-drawn canal boat trips to a timetable which varies depending on the season. You can see our current Trips Timetable , here

We are open 5 days a week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays .

We will also be open on Fridays throughout August.

We very much looking forward to seeing you!

        DOWNLOAD 2024 PDF BROCHURE

See the Horse Drawn Barge Timetable and Fares

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Tiverton, Devon

Local and Visitor Infomation

Grand Western Canal

Exploring the grand western canal in devon: a waterway marvel.

The Grand Western Canal in Devon, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of southwestern England, stands as a testament to the intersection of nature and human engineering, and the enduring allure of England’s waterways.

Location : TA21 0JY Length : 11 miles (18km) Locks : None Slipway : Boehill, Samford Peverell

Boat Dimensions

The maximum size of boat that can navigate the Grand Western Canal is: Length : 24′ 7″ (7.50m) Boehill slipway Beam : 7′ 2″ (2.20m) Boehill slipway Height : 6′ 6″ (2.00m) Draught : Not known

Just outside of Samford Peverell, at Boehill , there is a slipway designed to accommodate trailable boats, thereby effectively restricting the dimensions of vessels on the Canal. However, once launched, there are no locks to limit length. Trailable and portable boat visitors are required to purchase a permit from the Devon County Council .

Unveiling the Past: A Chronicle of the Grand Western Canal

The canal, stretching over 11 miles from Tiverton to Lowdwells, was conceived in the early 19th century as a vital transportation route for limestone and coal. Imagine the hustle and bustle of cargo-laden barges, the echoes of the Industrial Revolution resonating along the water.

Originally designed to link Bristol and Exeter, the construction of the canal was limited to the section between Tiverton and Taunton, which was constructed in two parts: as a broad canal and as a tub boat canal. The Bridgwater & Taunton Canal subsequently connected Taunton to the Bristol Channel, whereas the Exeter Canal’s intended link to Topsham was never constructed.

Construction of the broad canal began in 1810 and was completed in 1814. Due to some canal engineering brilliance, the canal’s water level is completely uninterrupted for the full 11 1 / 4 mile section, with no locks or lifts necessary, which in part led to this section’s future success.

The canal was transferred to the Western region of the British Transport Commission in 1947. In its 1961 report, the redevelopment committee identified significant community interest in the canal’s preservation due to its recreational value. The committee suggested that the canal be legally closed to navigation, but maintained for worthwhile projects as needed.

However the canal progressively deteriorated and remained largely unused, when local residents learned of proposals to fill in the canal. In 1962, they constituted an organisation known as “The Tiverton Canal Preservation Society” with the objective of safeguarding the canal. The Grand Western Canal was subsequently transferred to the British Waterways Board in January 1964.

The Tiverton Canal Preservation Society and a public campaign were successful, and in 1971 Devon County Council acquired the canal from the British Waterways Board in exchange for a cheque for £38,750 to assist with ongoing maintenance and upkeep.

Devon County Council then declared the Grand Western Canal a Country Park. Although the official name for the canal is the Grand Western Canal it is always been affectionately referred to as the Tiverton Canal by locals, the preservation society and visitors alike.

Navigating the Present: Attractions Along the Grand Western Canal

As you meander along the Grand Western Canal, a plethora of attractions unfold before your eyes. The Tiverton Basin, the canal’s starting point, greets you with a vibrant atmosphere. Take a moment to absorb the energy of the boatyard and the charming cafes lining the waterfront. The panoramic views here set the stage for the aquatic journey that lies ahead.

Heading west, the canal introduces you to the picturesque Culm Valley. Immerse yourself in the serenity as you encounter flourishing wildlife along the water’s edge. Birdwatchers are in for a treat, with a diverse array of avian species calling the canal home. Pause and appreciate the delicate balance between the man-made waterway and the surrounding natural ecosystem.

As you venture further, the Swing Bridge beckons—a marvel of engineering that allows boats to gracefully pass. It’s a testament to the canal’s adaptability, seamlessly blending functionality with architectural elegance. The bridge stands as a symbol of the symbiotic relationship between human ingenuity and the natural environment.

Beyond the engineering marvels, the canal embraces cultural richness. The Tiverton Canal Co. Horse-Drawn Barge offers a unique experience, harking back to the bygone era of horse-drawn barges. Picture yourself leisurely gliding along the water, drawn by majestic horses, as the canal whispers stories of a simpler time.

Find Hotels in Tiverton Devon

Frequently asked questions.

How long does it take to navigate the entire length of the canal? The duration of your journey along the Grand Western Canal depends on your mode of transportation. A leisurely boat ride can take several hours, allowing you to savour the scenic beauty and explore attractions along the way.

Are there guided tours available? Guided tours are indeed available, providing valuable insights into the canal’s history and significance. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the region, a guided tour can enhance the overall experience. One of the last remaining horse-drawn boats offers regular trips along the Grand Western between April and September and regular fun-days and other events use its amenities.

Visit The Tiverton Canal Company for boat trip information

What wildlife can be spotted along the Grand Western Canal? The canal is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with a diverse range of bird species, aquatic life, and flora. Kingfishers, swans, and dragonflies are among the many creatures that call the canal home, creating a thriving ecosystem. Otters are occasionally seen by quiet walkers or gentle paddlers.

Can visitors engage in water activities along the canal? Yes, the Grand Western Canal offers various water activities, including canoeing and kayaking. Adventurous souls can explore the waterway from a different perspective, immersing themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings.

Are there accommodation options along the Grand Western Canal? While there are no accommodations directly on the canal, nearby Tiverton offers a range of places to stay . Visitors can choose from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxury hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay during their exploration of the region.

How has the canal been preserved and maintained over the years? Preservation efforts have been paramount in maintaining the Grand Western Canal’s historical integrity. The Friends of the Grand Western Canal assist Devon Council rangers with the management of activities, sponsorship of events, and general promotion of the Grand Western Canal. Additionally, they contribute to the conservation and interpretation of the Somerset tub-boat section. In Nynehead , an exhaustive archaeological investigation has assisted in elucidating the development and operation of the historic lifts.

Can cyclists explore the Grand Western Canal, and are there bike rental services available? Cyclists are welcome to explore the towpaths along the canal, enjoying a scenic ride through the heart of Devon. Bike rental services are available, making it convenient for visitors to embark on an active adventure.

Visit The Abbotshood Cycle Hire for bike hire information

Holiday Cottage Tiverton Devon

Tiverton offers a wide range of self catering holiday homes to ensure you have a wonderful holiday in the beautiful mid-Devon countryside

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Grand Western Canal

Visitor Information

The Grand Western Canal Country Park has dozens of access points, with several car parks and lay-bys dotted along its length that provide easy access onto the towpath. View the Canal Country Park map and plan your visit.

Here is a list of some of the areas within the Country Park that you may wish to visit:

Canal Basin, Tiverton

The Canal Basin in Tiverton represents the south-western terminus of the Canal. It is the main gateway for the Country Park comprising of a large pay and display car park, Canal Visitor Centre, cafes and tea rooms, a gift shop, boat hire facilities, children’s play park and the Canal Ranger Service offices.  Public toilets are located near the entrance to this car park.

The Canal Visitor Centre has a range of fascinating displays about the Canal’s turbulent history, its stunning wildlife and information about the range of activities you can enjoy.  It also has lots of hands on activities and games for children and adults alike and is a great place to start your journey along this beautiful canal.

It is also home to the Tiverton Canal Co which runs the horse drawn barge, canoe and rowing boat hire, the Old Stable gift shop and the floating Ducks Ditty Café-Bar.

The Canal Tea Rooms and Garden is also located at the end of the car park.

William Authers Footbridge

William Authers Foot Bridge was built as a pedestrian walkway to connect Spurway Road to the Wilcombe housing estate. Named after a late local councillor, William Authers, who was a key figure in saving the canal from being in-filled in the 1960s.

Tidcombe Bridge

At Tidcombe Bridge, on the offside you will see Tidcombe Hall. This early 19th century house, was formally Tidcombe Rectory and built by a former rector, Rev. John Newte.

Beyond this on the towpath side, the canal enters mixed farmland and takes on a distinctly rural and more natural landscape, with pleasant views to surrounding hills.

Warnicombe Bridge / Snakes Wood

Particular features in this section are the mature oak trees, and the short, wooded section (on both sides) of Snakes Wood itself. Most of this wood lies to the south of the canal, is privately owned and is a County Wildlife Site. It has a secretive and enclosed feel which contrasts with the more open landscape at either end.

Manley Bridge

As you approach Manley Bridge there is the Canberra Bomber Memorial Panel, this gives details of how dredging works in 2003 turned up the remains of a Canberra bomber that had crashed into the canal in 1961 on a training flight from Germany.

East Manley Bridge

Things to look out for: Milestone 2, Barges moored at Mid Devon Moorings

Mid Devon Moorings (formally Mid Devon Hire Boats & Moorings) have a number of beautiful moorings on the Grand Western Canal located near East Manley bridge and have been welcoming craft here since 2004. The moorings are ideally located in a quiet and tranquil part of the canal right next to a winding hole, where each afternoon in the summer months you can watch the Horse-drawn barge turn around for its return journey of 2 miles to Tiverton.

Facilities at the moorings include:

• Wooden linear landing stage / walkway
• Maintenance landing with electrical point
• Toilet pump-out & rubbish disposal
• On site car park & lawn area
• Water, Fuel, & Gas
• They are also able to offer a winter lift out & maintenance service.

They can offer short and long terms moorings, but are unable to offer residential moorings.

To the east of East Manley Bridge is the canal’s only aqueduct, which was built by the Bristol & Exeter Railway Company in 1847. Although he had left the company by the time of its construction, it is believed that Isambard Kingdom Brunel was responsible for the design of the aqueduct.   The aqueduct was built to allow the Tiverton branch line to continue however only one of the twin tunnels was ever used and the railway was closed for passengers service in 1964.  The Aqueduct was relined during the winter of 2020/21 and had new fenders fitted.

Crownhill Bridge & Picnic Site

Crownhill Bridge was originally named Backlane Bridge or ‘change path’. Its here that the towpath switches to the other side of the canal and the horses drawing the barges were led over the Bridge to resume their journey along the towpath.

Things to look out for: Crownhill Picnic Site

Tiverton Road Bridge

The Country Park’s second busiest car park is located beside Tiverton Road Bridge and gives access to a large bend in the canal known as the Swan’s Neck.  A mobile cafe is based here between April and October each year open at weekends (and some weekdays during school holidays)

Beside Milestone 3 are Tiverton Road Car Park and the Dudley Weatherley Jubilee Bridge. This lift bridge was built in 2002 – the Queen’s 50th jubilee year – and is named after a well-known local artist who was prominent in the campaign to save the canal back in the 1960’s and early 1970’s. Sadly Dudley died in 2004, but this elegant lift bridge will help to keep his memory alive for generations to come.

The Swans Neck (Tiverton Road Bridge to Greenway Bridge)

For the next mile and a quarter, the canal sweeps out on a large loop above the village of Halberton. When the Canal was constructed, rather than using locks, the canal engineer, John Rennie, felt it was more efficient commercially to construct embankments, cuttings and long bends where necessary to keep the canal on a level contour.

A circular route incorporating this section of towpath and some recently-created paths provide a very pleasant and largely off-road walk. (see Walking page for details). This section is surrounded by farmland and for a few hundred metres on the offside, the Tiverton Golf Club. The area offers some wonderful views across to the Blackdown Hills (an AONB) and the long ridges which characterise the East Devon landscape. There are also good views across to Halberton, featuring St Andrews Church and Halberton Court Farm.

Things to look out for: Milestones, Sellake Bridge,

Greenway Bridge & Picnic Site

After passing through a short, wooded cutting between Greenway Bridge and Swing Bridge, the canal crosses the highest embankment along its length, where fine views of the Blackdown Hills are afforded.

Swing Bridge

Things to look out for: Swing Bridge, Milestone 5

Rock Bridge

Just after Rock Bridge is Rock House, built around the same time as the canal for Captain John Twisden – the engineer who succeeded James Green in extending the canal to Taunton. The name ‘Rock’ relates to the fact that the bedrock is very close to the surface at this point, and it was a remarkable achievement for a cutting to be chiselled out by hand through this section by the navvies who built the canal. Equally impressive is the beautiful Oak tree on the offside of the canal near Rock House that has grown to a tremendous size with its roots sprawling over the bedrock.

Things to look out for: Battens Bridge

The Canal continues to pass through mixed farmland with outstanding views to the east until it reaches the pleasant village of Sampford Peverell.

Things to look out for: During late spring and summer this area is home to important populations of Reed Warblers and Sedge Warblers who nest in the bankside vegetation.

Sampford Peverell

The canal passes through the centre of Sampford Peverell. The western end of the village is characterised by attractive older buildings and St John the Baptist church.

Things to look out for: St John the Baptist church, The Globe Inn, Landing stage for boats, Sampford Peverell Picnic Site, Sampford Peverell Play Area, and Buckland Bridge.

From Buckland Bridge the Canal once again enters a more rural, farmed environment, punctuated briefly by the A361 North Devon Link Road which crosses the canal via the modern concrete Boehill Bridge.  Below this bridge is the Boehill Slipway, which was constructed in 2003 to enable trailed boats to visit the canal.

Soon after you will discover Minnows Touring Park located behind a hedge on the towpath side. Followed by Holbrooke Bridge, where the quiet rural feel is restored, with views across to the Blackdown Hills.

Things to look out for: Boehill Slipway

Ayshford Chapel

A highlight within this section is the 15th century Ayshford Chapel and 10th century (or earlier) Ayshford Court which are located beside the Canal on the offside. Ayshford Chapel is a former private chapel and is recorded in the National Heritage List for England as a designated Grade I listed building. It is under the care of the Friends of Friendless Churches.

Westcott Bridge to Ebear Bridge

Ebear Bridge to Fossend Bridge

Near milestone 9, this section of the canal crosses the Spratford Stream which is carried under the Canal by the fine, Grade II-listed Twin Culverts.  A little further on on the offside is the tilting weir – a 3m by 1m gate that can be remotely operated, which enables the Canal Ranger Service to manage canal water levels.

When it reaches the village of Burlescombe, the canal passes between a handful of properties dotting the canal banks. Black Bridge is an old mineral line bridge across which limestone was transported the the railway line further up in the village. There is space for several cars to park beside the old wharf and the small picnic area is popular with families feeding the ducks and swans.

Things to look out for: Double culverts, Tilting Weir and Black Bridge

Fenacre Bridge to Waytown Tunnel

Here the canal extends through a deep, wooded cutting. With lots of mature trees and crystal-clear waters due to the natural springs which feed the canal, this quieter section of the Country Park has a distinctly different atmosphere. In this section you will also find:

Whipcott Wharf Which is now used as a picnic site (accessed via steep steps).

Waytown Limekilns The structure reminds us of the canal’s industrial heritage, as a nearby information panel tells the story with an artist’s impression of what it might have been like in the Canal’s heyday when limestone was being burnt in the kilns to use as a fertiliser on local farmland.

Waytown Tunnel Immediately after the kilns, the towpath heads unexpectedly uphill, over Waytown Tunnel, crossing a minor road and re-joining the towpath on the other side.

Lowdwells Lock

The lock marks the end of the in-water section of the Grand Western Canal and from here the canal originally crossed over the road via an aqueduct and continued towards Taunton, where it joined the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal. However, this section was abandoned in the mid 1800s due to the success of the railways, although most of the former towpath remains a public right of way and some of the original features are still present. To access this public right of way, continue down the road, on your left is a small car park and in front of you is a gate/style, from this point you can trace the former route of the canal for 5 ½ miles to the remains of Nynehead Lift near Wellington along a public footpath that follows the original towpath.

Alternatively, there is also a pleasant circular walk from Lowdwells that follows part of the original route, taking in several historic features of the canal and some lovely countryside with a pub halfway round – Lowdwells to Appley Circular Walk .

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Tiverton Canal Co

Walking the Devon County Council Country Park: The Grand Western Canal

The Grand Western Canal stretches many miles along the mid Devon countryside and has become a stunning linear nature reserve for all to enjoy. Driving along the road from Tiverton to Halberton you will cross the canal, parking is available in a large lay-by after the bridge and ramps are provided for wheelchair access. Walking is good either way along the canal but you will need to turn back to get off again unless you walk all the way to Tiverton where there is access into the town.

For Canal MAP click this link: Grand Western Canal Map

OS Landranger 181 Grid Ref: 998131

GPS walking and cycling routes along the Grand Western Canal

The towpath runs beside the Canal Country Park for the full 11.25 miles and is a popular place to enjoy a flat, easy walk in the countryside. There are several circular walks incorporating the towpath, click here for details .

There are picnic sites at Tiverton, Crownhill Bridge, Tiverton Road Bridge, Greenway Bridge, Sampford Peverell, Whipcott Bridge and Lowdwells.  

The following directions describe a circular route following the canal towpath using the bus to return to the starting point at Tiverton Parkway Station.

From Tiverton Parkway Station, leave the station along the access road. At the main road turn right and after 30 metres turn left along a track that leads to the Link Road Bridge and a boat-launching slipway. Turn left and follow the towpath through Sampford Peverell.

The stretch of canal from Sampford Peverell to Halberton has excellent views across to the Blackdown Hills. During late spring / summer it is home to multiple populations of Reed Warblers and Sedge Warblers who nest in the bankside vegetation.

Just before Rock Bridge is Rock House, built around the same time as the canal for Captain John Twisden – the engineer who succeeded James Green in extending the canal to Taunton. The name ‘Rock’ relates to the fact that the bedrock is very close to the surface at this point, and it was a remarkable achievement for a cutting to be chiselled out by hand through this section by the navvies who built the canal. Equally impressive is the beautiful Oak tree on the offside of the canal near Rock House that has grown to a tremendous size with its roots sprawling over the bedrock.

After passing over Swing embankment with its wonderful views, you'll pass under Swing Bridge. This is an ‘accommodation bridge’ built to link up farmer’s land that was split by the construction of the canal. Further on through a large cutting is Greenway Bridge.

For the next mile and a quarter, the canal sweeps out on a large loop called the ‘Swan’s Neck’ which keeps the canal on a level contour above Halberton. Beside Milestone 3 are Tiverton Road Car Park and the Dudley Weatherley Jubilee Bridge. This lift bridge was built in 2002 – the Queen’s 50th jubilee year - and is named after a well-known local artist who was prominent in the campaign to save the canal back in the 1960’s and early 1970’s. Sadly Dudley died in 2004, but this elegant lift bridge will help to keep his memory alive for generations to come.

At Crownhill Bridge (also known as Changepath) the towpath crosses the bridge and continues on the opposite side for the rest of the journey to Tiverton. The towpath crosses over an Aqueduct that was built in 1847 as part of the construction of the Bristol and Exeter Railway branch from Tiverton Parkway to Tiverton. Two arches were built to allow for future expansion, but only one line was ever used and this was closed in 1967.

The section from East Manley Bridge to the Basin in Tiverton is where the Horse drawn passenger barge operates twice daily from Easter until the end of October (Tel. 01884 253345 for more info)

For the last mile of the canal, the route passes through a residential area before arriving in the Tiverton Basin where you will find the Canal Shop, Tea Gardens , Canal Visitor Centre, Duck's Ditty Floating Café Bar and Public Toilets .

From the Basin the route follows Canal Hill down to a mini roundabout and then right, down to Great Western Way. Turn left onto Great Western Way and then right onto Station Lane, this will lead you into Tiverton town centre where you will find a large array of shops, services and parking. A little way along the pedestrianised Fore Street is Phoenix Lane, at the bottom of which you will find the Tourist Information Centre and Tiverton Bus Station.

Buses leave every hour to the station and the journey takes around 20 minutes. Services are less frequent on Sundays, check with the Traveline on 0871 200 22 33 or visit www.traveline.org.uk

Grand Western Canal

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Grand Western Canal refreshes the voyage through history and nature

Experience the charm of Tiverton’s Grand Western Canal like never before with new interactive displays, drone footage, and informative noticeboards

• 20:31, 8 MAY 2024

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Visitors to the Grand Western Canal Country Park now have a range of new facilities to help them make the most of their trip to the charming waterway in Tiverton . The Canal Visitor Centre now features two new video display screens, each playing a choice of several short film clips, including some spectacular birds-eye drone footage of the Canal Basin and horse-drawn barge.

Along the towpath, all ten existing noticeboards are being replaced with tougher and smarter models, with a further two noticeboards added in new locations. Seven of these new noticeboards are already in place, while the remaining five are on order and are due to be installed in the summer.

Within each noticeboard is a newly developed A2-sized information panel, each one packed with fascinating stories and images relating to the Canal’s history, wildlife and management in the area near their location. They will also house maps, posters promoting Canal events, information about recreational activities that can be enjoyed within the Country Park, and health and safety guidance. All of the new facilities have been externally-funded, with the exception of two of the noticeboards.

The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) has provided £18,000 from its South West Inland Waterways Regeneration Fund to fund the purchase, wiring and installation of the new video screens, the design and production of the 12 information panels and the purchase of five new noticeboards.

Mid Devon District Council , through its Shared Prosperity Fund, has provided £10,000 for the purchase of the five noticeboards currently on order.

Councillor Andrea Davis, Devon County Council cabinet member for climate change, environment and transport, said: “These new displays and noticeboards add even more to the experience of visitors to the Country Park and the visitor centre. The Grand Western Canal has a rich history which people will be able to explore and find out more about. We’re extremely grateful for the funding from The Inland Waterways Association and Mid Devon District Council that has made these improvements possible.”

Ray Alexander, secretary of the IWA’s South West Inland Waterway Regeneration Fund, said: “The Association is very supportive of the Grand Western Country Park and the many benefits that it brings to both residents and tourists and is pleased to have provided funding to assist with the new noticeboards and information panels being installed along the canal; and also the new video screen displays in the visitor centre at the Canal Basin.”

Councillor Steve Keable, Mid Devon District Council cabinet member for planning and economic regeneration, said: “The Canal is a gem and a joy for locals and tourists alike. The information panels and video screens will enrich the visitor experience for discovery, learning and enjoyment so much all will wish to return many more times. This is one of a series of partnership initiatives supported by Mid Devon to promote the Canal and Country Park.”

Councillor Colin Slade, Devon County Councillor for Tiverton East, said: “The Grand Western Canal is already a very popular destination both for local residents and visitors. I am delighted that these improved facilities at the visitor centre and signage on the towpath will add to the experience and encourage even more people to enjoy the Canal. I echo the thanks to those bodies who have provided much needed funding which is very gratefully received.”

Councillor Ray Radford, Devon County Councillor for Willand and Uffculme, said: “I am very appreciative of the funding for the notice boards and panels which give information and detail the history of our wonderful canal. The basin is the most westerly end of the canal and extends 11 miles to the east, taking in Sampford Peverell on to Holcombe Rogus, going through interesting countryside with many attractive parts and stop off points along the way, with an excellent tow path. We welcome visitors."

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