Bradford-on-Avon Wharf

The wharf at Bradford-on-Avon Wharf was the busiest on the Kennet & Avon Canal during the 1850s. Today, it's a great place to spot historic canal features.

Bradford on Avon is an architectural treasure chest, with gems including the magnificent 14th century Tithe Barn and striking Town Bridge over the River Avon. The town has many independent shops and places to eat, including the canalside Barge Inn and Mr Salvat's 17th century coffee room, where customers are served by staff in period clothes.

Back on the towpath, we're currently trying to establish a new welcome station. And while the Canal & River Trust are the charity who are responsible for the care of over 2,000 miles of waterways, including the K&A, we also work closely with our neighbouring charity, the Kennet & Avon Canal Trust at Bradford-on-Avon Wharf. They run a café, information centre and boat trips.

Things to do and see

Take to the towpath:

• Walking routes and dog walking
• Cycling and canoe hire
• Canoe routes
• Tithe Barn
• Barton Farm Country Park
• Gongoozling

Places to eat:

• The Lock Inn Café
• Canal Tavern
• Bradford-on-Avon Wharf Cottage

Boat trips:

• Sally Narrowboats
• The Kennet and Avon Canal Trust boat trip
• Lady Lena
• Wiltshire Narrowboats

Picnic spot:

You'll find benches dotted along the canal

Trails:

• Heritage activity sheet

Wildlife spotting:

Swans, ducks and other water birds are all common sights along the canal. You may also spot other wildlife, such as water voles, and once the sun has finally set, bats can be seen feeding on flying insects above the canal.

Getting here

By car - our Canal & River Trust pay & display car park is at Baileys Barn, off Moulton Drive

By train - Bradford-on-Avon station is a ten minute walk to the canalside

By boat - download our free map showing visitor moorings and boating facilities along the Kennet & Avon Canal

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