Grand Western Canal, Tiverton, Devon

The Grand Western Canal stretches 11 miles from Tiverton in Devon almost to the Somerset border and what a lovely spot it is. Hardly surprising that it’s a designated Local Nature Reserve because it’s home to a multitude of wildlife; you’ll see swans gliding peacefully on the water, ducks waddling and a-dabbling, and moorhens scooting furtively about. It’s not unusual to see a kingfisher dart over the canal, or to hear a water vole plop into the water; foxes and badgers come out in the evening looking for their dinner, and of course, there’s plenty of fish and insect life.

One of the best ways to see the Grand Western Canal is to take a trip on a horse drawn barge with Tiverton Canal Co, or to hire rowing boats or Canadian canoes and explore at your own pace. You can go for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride along the towpath, take a picnic and stop and chat to the anglers en route, see what they’ve caught. When you get back to the wharf if you find you’re in need of refreshments head to the charming Canal Tea Room and Gardens or to Ducks Ditty Café Bar with its permanent moorings. There’s a Visitor Centre where you can find out the history of the canal, a playground for the kids, and the all important loos. 

All information correct at the time of writing

Group Accommodation in Devon

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