Grand Union Canal

The Grand Union Canal is Britain’s longest, the trunk route of the canals, linking London to Birmingham passing through rolling countryside, industrious towns peaceful villages.

There's plenty to see along the Grand Union Canal. From the vibrant heart of London, it leads you out into the rolling Chiltern Hills, through rural Northamptonshire and Warwickshire and into the Birmingham suburbs.

The canal’s striking historic features include the dramatic span of the Iron Trunk Aqueduct and the steeply climbing Hatton Lock Flight, set in charming Warwickshire countryside. The Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne gives a fascinating glimpse into this waterway’s past.

Many branches lead off from the mainline to towns along the way, making great diversions if you have time to explore. The longest of these is the Leicester Line. Others include the Aylesbury Arm, Market Harborough Arm and Northampton Arm.

The Paddington Arm runs through a lively and attractive area of West London, full of bars, restaurants, shops, Middle Eastern cafes, juice bars and a terraced canalside seating area at Sheldon Square.

The Slough Arm is an unexpectedly green and rural bit of canal, passing through the pretty town of Iver. It is a great place to escape the crowds on the nearby London waterways.

• Download our free guide to Birmingham, Hatton and Fradley
• Download our free guide to Milton Keynes, Banbury and Tring

Find stoppages, restrictions and other navigational advice for this waterway.