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Walking

Ramble the length of the canal or take a leisurely waterside stroll – there’s something for everyone.

You can walk all the way from one end of the canal to the other if you like!

The towpath provides a very pleasant walking route with plenty to see along the way such as many architectural features dating back to when the canal was first built including the packet boat steps at Worsley and Stockton Heath which were the canal bus stops when travelling by road was difficult. Discover original humpback canal bridges and turnover bridges where the towpath changes sides, which were necessary to transfer the tow horse from one bank to the other safely.

Walking is a great way to stay healthy and active as well as being completely free to enjoy along the towpath of the Bridgewater Canal. We do ask that you use the facility safely, take your litter home and if you are a dog walker, please keep your dog under control and clean up after your pet.

Towpath Closures and Restrictions

From time to time we may need to close certain sections to maintain the towpath. Please check this page for the latest information.

Public Transport Information

Visit these websites for the latest bus, train and tram information and timetables.

Transport for Greater Manchester

Network Warrington

Halton Transport

Cheshire East Transport

walking

The Bridgewater Way

Regenerating the canalside for walkers and cyclists.


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Boating

From colourful canal boats to day boat hire and pleasure cruises.

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Walking

Ramble the length of the canal or take a leisurely waterside stroll – there’s something for everyone.

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Cycling

The Bridgewater Canal welcomes cyclists of all ages and abilities.

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Fishing

There are a number of fishing clubs which have a licence to fish on various stretches of the Canal.

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Food & Drink

There are plenty of pubs and restaurants which back on to, or are very close to the Bridgewater Canal.

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Attractions

The Bridgewater Canal flows by lots of popular attractions making it the perfect route to a fantastic day out.

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Location

The Bridgewater Canal is a 65km (39 mile) canal stretching from Runcorn to Leigh in the North West of England.

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Terms & Conditions

Guidelines for all users of the canal from boat owners and fishermen to walkers and cyclists.

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Latest from Instagram

Summer colours along the Bridgewater Canal 🌷🌞 August is right around the corner and hopefully it will bring sun and blue skies so we can enjoy warm walks along the waterside. 📸: @leahwhitehorse001
Happy Monday everyone! We hope you all have a lovely week 🌥️✨ 📸: @jobo_photos
Peaceful evening walks along the Bridgewater Canal >> ☁️😮‍💨 Nothing beats a long walk at the end of a busy week, so make time for you this weekend and head out for a stroll along the water's edge. 📸: @drwilli59
Spice up your Monday with watersports along the Bridgewater Canal! 🛶⛅ Why not get a @British.Canoeing licence that permits Canoes, Kayaks and SUP's to travel up and down the Bridgewater Canal free of charge. 📸 : @_jaderauhl
Cheeeeeese... 📸🧀 We found this photo in our gallery and just had to share it. It's made our week! The Bridgewater Canal is the perfect place to take your pooch this summer, come rain or shine ⛅
Taking a dip 🦆💧 We love seeing your photos of the wildlife you find along the Bridgewater Canal. Next time you're visiting, snap some pics and send them to us! 📸: @geembailey
Happy Monday 🌤️✨ Sending you peaceful and positive vibes to get you through this week. 📸: @monicasphotographs

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    The Bridgewater Canal Co Ltd, Venus Building, 1 Old Park Lane
    TraffordCity, Manchester M41 7HA

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    Peel L&P | Venus Building | 1 Old Park Lane | TraffordCity | Manchester | M41 7HA