A Photographic Guide: Kennet and Avon Canal

Walking the Kennet and Avon Canal is a tranquil way to experience characterful canal boats, impressive feats of engineering, stunning landscapes, serene reflections, and abundant wildlife.

Let me guide you along one of the most scenic sections of the Kennet and Avon Canal, from Bradford-on-Avon to Warleigh Weir.

Begin your walk at Bradford-on-Avon’s Tithe Barn, which was built in the 1300s and is one of Britain’s largest medieval barns. From here, take the steps on the right side of the barn, leading you to the Kennet and Avon Canal.

The Kennet and Avon Canal was originally constructed to link London with the Bristol Channel. Today, the canal towpath offers the perfect route for walkers eager to explore its winding waterway, the rolling Cotswold hills, and its grand aqueducts.

Walk west toward Avoncliff, and you’ll come across your first bridge—a recently rebuilt wooden structure that replaced the old one, which had fallen into disrepair. Crossing this bridge leads you into Becky Addy Wood, which offers an alternative route to the canal-side walk.

For now, stay on the towpath and continue winding your way toward Avoncliff. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, often spotted perched on low-hanging branches or even on the tiller and ropes of the canal boats. Their high-pitched call signals their swift passage alongside you.

As you approach the Avoncliff aqueduct, you’ll notice a path leading down to the weir below. This spot is sometimes frequented by swimmers and is home to one of the our resident swan couples for part of the year.

Climb back up to the towpath and enjoy the breathtaking views over the River Avon from the Avoncliff aqueduct. Follow the path beneath the aqueduct, then continue up to the other side to stay on the canal route.

Take a moment to admire the character and creativity of the canal boats. Many are decorated with plants, wheelbarrows, ornaments, solar panels and other unique touches.

As you continue, head toward Elbow Cottage Bridge. You might consider taking a short detour up the road toward Turleigh to catch a magical view of Freshford through the hedge. The valley and rolling Cotswold hills make for a stunning backdrop.

This part of the canal is one of my favourite spots for photography, especially in autumn when the leaves turn to warm colours, as well as during the frosty or snow-covered days of winter.

Enjoy the winding curves of the canal as it makes its way toward Limpley Stoke. Be alert for herons feeding at the canal’s edge—they are surprisingly tolerant of passers-by.

Continue on to the impressive Dundas Aqueduct, which offers more fantastic views over the River Avon and the wooded hillside. Cross the aqueduct and loop back over the canal via a small footbridge. From here, walk toward Bath.

Conclude your walk at Warleigh Weir. You’ll notice a bridge with a road leading off to the right, which will take you across the railway tracks, past the pump station, and up to the popular wild swimming spot in the River Avon. What makes this weir particularly special is its unusual arched shape. Take time to appreciate the cross over of the river and canal landscapes before heading home.

In addition to this walk, it well worth visiting the impressive Caen Hill Locks. They enable canal boats to climb the hill via 16 stacked, consecutive locks. Twice a year the sun aligns with the top lock, making a picture perfect image.