Avon

A UK Canal Boating Article

Category : Rivers

 

RIVER AVON (Bristol) – also known as Lower Avon

The word 'avon' derives from the Welsh for 'river' and because of this many English rivers have been named Avon. The River Avon, Bristol, runs for 75 miles from its source close to Chipping Sodbury to Avonmouth in Bristol. Passing as it flows through the stunning counties of Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Somerset.

The expression 'ship-shape and Bristol fashion' is supposed to have derived from the need for the boats to have their cargo securely stowed for passage on the river. From the Kennet and Avon Canal the River Avon, Bristol, runs for 13.75 miles to the Bristol Channel and then directly to the open sea. The Avon is navigable from its mouth at Avonmouth as far as Pulteney weir at Bath and it is here that the Kennet and Avon Canal connects with the River.

THINGS OF INTEREST ON ROUTE

Pulteny Bridge – At Bath Bottom Lock, number 7, the Kennet and Avon Canal meets the River Avon. The Pulteney Bridge completed in 1773 and designed by Robert Adam and is one of only four bridges in the world with shops across the full span on both sides. It has been designated by English Heritage as a grade I Listed building. Sited just downstream from the Bridge is Pulteny Weir constructed in 1975 to reduce the risk of flooding to the town centre.

The Canons Marsh Amphitheatre – Bordered by the Lloyds Bank building it is also known as Lloyd's Amphitheatre. Home to unique performances this striking waterfront site was built on a regenerated landscape which had been part of the ancient city docks.

Clifton Suspension Bridge - Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel this famous landmark has become the symbol of the city of Bristol. Linking Clifton, in Bristol, to North Somerset it 702 feet crosses the Avon Gorge and has a span of 702 feet. Visit the visitor centre which tells the story of the bridge through exhibitions, models and interactive displays.

SS Great Britain - Step back in time when you board Brunel's SS Great Britain and discover the history of this ship. Discover what life on board would have been like as you experience the sights, sounds and smells.

Bristol Floating Harbour – The harbour has been in existence since the 13th century and has, over the last 20 year, undergone a vast redevelopment. It is now one of the country's most exciting leisure, arts, water sports and entertainment centres. Take a trip on the restored Bristol Packet Harbour Railway which runs from the harbour side to near the city centre.

RIVER AVON (Stratford)

The Avon Ring is a part-canal, part-river circuit taking in the River Avon and the River Severn, the Stratford Canal and Worcester and Birmingham.

From its source in Northamptonshire the River meanders for 96 miles and its surroundings have changed little since the days of its most famous son, William Shakespeare. The Avon is a popular river with narrowboats and you can cruise through ancient towns, peaceful villages and picturesque countryside all of this makes it one of Britain's most relaxing waterways. You will encounter a curious mix of architecture when boating along the Avon as this is an ancient navigation route.

THINGS OF INTEREST ON ROUTE

Pershore - Situated on the River Avon in the heart of the Vale of Evesham. Pershore is an unspoiled picturesque Market Town famed for its elegant Georgian architecture and magnificent Abbey. During the 18th century the town was a flourishing staging post, market trading centre and crossing point of the River Avon

Pershore Bridge - A short distance away from the town centre stands Pershore Bridge which was the scene of Civil War skirmishes and if you look closely and you will be able to see the scars of battle. Today the bridge is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and has moorings and a waterside picnic area based around the medieval bridge,

Mary Ardens House - Transport yourself back to the 1570's at Mary Arden's House which was the childhood home of Shakespeare's mother. See Tudor life close up on the farm, meet the rare breeds and even help look after the pigs, cattle and sheep.

Clopton Bridge - Built at the end of the 15th century this bridge played an important role as the road to London during medieval times.

Barge Gallery – Situated on a Narrowboat moored in the canal basin enjoy a novel shopping experience aboard this unique floating art gallery. Purchase the works by artists from throughout Great Britain including original paintings, etchings, prints, cards, ceramics and jewellery

Royal Shakespeare Theatre – Moor right outside The Royal Shakespeare Theatre (RST) theatre which is probably the most famous classical theatre company in the world. Royal Shakespeare Attend a performance of one of the Bard's plays or take a guided a tour of the theatre.

 

 

More Canal Boating Articles

 

Holiday Bases

Alvechurch
Hilperton
Worcester

 

Canals

Kennet And Avon
Stratford Upon Avon

 

Rivers

Severn

 

 

Places to Visit

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