Walking Britain Berkshire Walk
Newbury to Hungerford via Kennet & Avon Canal
Walk Route Description
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The Kennet and Avon Canal has a length of 87 miles and consists of two sections of navigable river linked by a canal. From Bristol to Bath the waterway follows the River Avon. Then a 57 mile-long canal section providing a link to the River Kennet at Newbury and on to Reading where the waterway continues along the River Thames. The canal was built between 1795 and 1810 but with the construction of railways it fell into disuse. The canal was subsequently restored in the 20th century including many locks and was reopened in 1990.
This linear walk follows the Kennet and Avon Canal westwards from Newbury to Hungerford and requires the use of two cars or rail travel between the start and end. It is probably best to park in Hungerford and take the regular train service to Newbury to start the walk. From Newbury railway station exit on the north side and bear right through the station forecourt to follow Cheap Street towards the river/canal. Turn left into Wharf Street passing the Tourist Information on your left and then right over the river/canal bridge and drop down to the towpath on the left.
The route needs little further explanation as you stay on the canal towpath all the way to Hungerford where the railway station is very close to canalside path. During the walk you will be able see many boats using the canal including traversing the locks passed on the way. To the north of the canal lies the River Kennet and its flood plain.
Maps | |||
| Ordnance Survey Explorer 158 | Sheet Map | 1:25k | BUY |
| Anquet OS Explorer 158 | Digital Map | 1:25k | BUY |
| Ordnance Survey Landranger 174 | Sheet Map | 1:50k | BUY |
| Anquet OS Landranger 174 | Digital Map | 1:50k | BUY |
It is recommended you take a map. The preferred scale is 1:25k. | |||
GPS files - right click or option-click the button and choose "Save As..." to download this file.
Recommended Books & eBooks
The Kennet and Avon Canal
Guidebook to walking along the Kennet & Avon Canal. The 94 mile route from Reading to Bristol is split into 7 stages of fairly easy walking and includes the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath and Bristol's Floating Harbour. 20 circular walks are also included, ranging from 4ΒΌ to 9 miles, taking in the best sections of the canal.
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Walking in the Thames Valley
Walking in the Thames Valley describes 25 adventurous day walks in the area covering the North Hampshire Downs, Berkshire and the Southern Chilterns with easy access to London and Reading. The circular walks vary from 10 to 18 miles, including one 2-day walk, as well as shorter route options for those who want a less strenuous day out.
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The End to End Trail
