UK Canal Boating

Day 1
Turning out of the marina westwards, you will immediately encounter a lift bridge which is electrically operated by canal boaters, and which spans a busy road. Follow the instructions by the bridge. You will then have your first lock, once through here you will see a disused gravel pit, some a haven for wildlife since the 1960s.

The scenery is very rural until you reach Thatcham, when you get to Woolhampton be careful of the current below the lock which can cause problems.
Woolhampton village is 200 yards north of the canal, there is a pub canalside or a couple in the village, it is an hour cruising from Aldermaston to here, and makes an ideal place to stop for your 1st night.

Day 2
Passing Woolhampton you pass through 3 locks in this rural landscape until you reach the rapidly expanding village of Thatcham, which is now almost a suburb of Newbury. There is a railway station close to the canal near bridge 42. There are various pubs and restaurants in Thatcham access is from bridge 42, and a Nature Discovery centre north of Widmead Lock with shop and cafe.

It is 3.25 hours from Aldermaston to here.

You soon pass Newbury racecourse on your left. See their website for details of race days. Concerts are also hosted here.

The River cuts right through the town and above Newbury Lock is the delightful quiet West Mills area where rows of terraced houses face the navigation and there are extensive moorings. Beware of the current below Newbury lock. It is 6 hours from Aldermaston marina to here.

Victoria Bridge 59 is handy for getting to Newbury to the north, or the racecourse to the south.

Newbury developed in the Middle Ages as an important cloth town, and the town has managed to retain much of its period charm. The District Museum is one of the most interesting buildings in Newbury built-in 1626 as a cloth weaving workshop. The town centre has many shops, pubs and restaurants to choose from. A short bus or taxi ride away is the Living rainforest, which gives you the opportunity to experience rainforest life under glass.

The Newbury area has a wealth of great days out for all the family to enjoy.

Experience fun times for families at Beale Park, Bucklebury Farm Park and Krazy Klub Activity Centre. Feel history brought alive at Basildon Park, Shaw House and Highclere Castle. Be entertained at one of three theatres in and around the town or watch the latest movies on the seven-screen cinema in the town centre.

The area offers superb fishing on the River Kennet, inspiring walks across the Berkshire Downs or relaxing trips on the Kennet and Avon Canal. At no cost at all, you can explore Donnington Castle, Greenham Common and Thatcham Nature Discovery Centre.

Day 3
Day 4
Cruise back to Aldermaston

 

NB: This route has been provided as a guide only. Information may become inaccurate or out of date. You should always check with the marina that the route is possible within your time frame, current weather conditions and canal stoppages etc.