Walk 2344 - printer friendly version

Newbury to Hungerford via Kennet & Avon Canal Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 9.0 miles / 14.6 km

Ascent - 150 feet / 45 metres

Grade - easy/mod

Start - OS grid reference SU471667
Lat 51.3973870 + Long -1.3243743
Postcode RG14 5DS (approx. location only)

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.

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