Planning your visit
Address: Sheffield bottom lock Picnic Park car park, Swingbridge, Off Hanger Road, Theale, RG7 4AJ View on Google map
Price: Once you're parked up, it won't cost you a thing
Toilets: None on site
Garston Lock is one of two remaining turf sided locks built by engineer, John Hore. The other being Monkey Marsh at Thatcham. Both are scheduled ancient monuments. Sitting on the Kennet River end of the the Kennet & Avon Canal, why not cycle to Garston Lock and find out what's special about it?
Sheffield Bottom Lock is the next lock west along the towpath and it's there you'll find a picnic area. Both these locks sit within a set of ponds and reservoirs that are part of the Theale Nature Reserve.
Things to do and see
- Walking and dog walking
- Cycling - national route 4 runs along the towpath here
- Fishing
Picnic spot:
There is a picnic area along side Sheffield Lock
Wildlife spotting:
Definitely the place to take our free nature spotters' guide with you. Spot waterbirds such as mute swans, mallard, coot, moorhens. You may even catch sight of a kingfisher!
Getting here
By car - there's a canalside car park off Hanger Road, signed Sheffield Bottom Lock Picnic Area. Take the first left after swingbridge from Theale, or turn right before swingbridge from other direction. It's a half mile walk or cycle from here to Garston Lock
By train - Theale Station is just a 10 minute walk away