Enjoy paddleboarding, canoeing or kayaking along our canals? Why not give these paddle routes a go – all of which include a pub pitstop.
Paddleboarding at Standedge Tunnel
Explore the UK's most relaxing canal paddling adventures with a rewarding pub stop on each route.
Paddle, pub, and repeat: your next unique summer activity
Looking for unique summer activities or relaxing things to do this weekend near you? Let us be your guide and canal route planner. These paddle pub crawls blend gentle kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding with the charm of classic British riverside pubs.
From drifting along the Kennet & Avon Canal to crossing aqueducts on the Llangollen Canal, these scenic waterway routes pair peaceful paddles with well-earned pints. Why not finish with a roast and make it the ultimate Sunday plan?
Honey Street to Wootton Rivers - Kennet & Avon Canal (Wiltshire)
This 7-mile paddle along the Kennet & Avon Canal begins at The Barge Inn, Honeystreet, a renowned canalside pub. The route winds through open countryside and chalk downlands, providing a peaceful journey with scenic views. Finish at the Waterfront Bar & Grill in Pewsey, where you can relax and enjoy a meal to refuel after your paddle—making this one of the top things to do in summer in Wiltshire.
How to get there
Start Location: The Barge Inn, Honeystreet, Wiltshire, SN9 5PS
End Location: The Waterfront Bar & Bistro, Pewsey Wharf, Marlborough Road, SN9 5NU
Route Information
Location: Wiltshire
Nearest Cities: Marlborough / Sailburys
Public Transportation: 101 Bus to Barge Inn / Train to Pewsey Station
Distance: 7 miles
Hinckley to Sutton Cheney Wharf - Ashby Canal (Leicestershire)
Begin your 6-mile lock-free paddle on the Ashby Canal at The Lime Kilns Pub, a traditional canalside pub offering real ales and classic pub fare, makes for a great starting point before setting off on your journey. This tranquil kayaking route offers calm waters and scenic surroundings. End your journey at Sutton Cheney Wharf, one of the most peaceful spots along the canal, ideal for a rest, a bite to eat, and soaking in the views. Explore their extensive menu filled with all the familiar favourites like Full English Breakfast in the morning to BLT and Fish and Chips at lunch.**
End Point Location: Sutton Wharf, Sutton Cheney, Warwickshire CV13 0AL
Route Information
Location: Leicestershire
Nearest Cities: Coventry / Leicester
Public Transportation: Train to Hickley Station
Distance: 6 miles
Wilmcote to Lowsonford – Stratford-upon-Avon Canal (Warwickshire)
Explore a 6.5-mile historic paddle route along the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal, beginning near Mary Arden’s Farm in Wilmcote, the birthplace of Shakespeare’s mother. This route is perfect for those searching for summer paddling days out with a cultural twist.
Paddle past Wootton Wawen, cross the stunning Edstone Aqueduct (England’s longest cast-iron aqueduct), and glide through peaceful countryside. Stop off at The Navigation Inn, one of the best canalside pubs, before finishing your journey at the iconic Fleur de Lys pub in Lowsonford, just beyond Lock 31.
How to get there
Start Location: Mary Arden's Farm, Station Road Wilmcote, Warwickshire, CV37 9UN
End Location: Fleur De Lys Pub, Lowsonford, Warwickshire, B95 5HJ
Route Information
Location: Warwickshire
Nearest Cities: Stratford upon Avon / Warwick / Coventry
Public Transportation: Train to Wilmcote / 513 Bus to Mill Lane
Distance: 6.5 miles
Garstang to Salwick – Lancaster Canal (Lancashire)
This 7-mile canal paddle route along the Lancaster Canal offers a peaceful escape into rural Lancashire. Launch near The Hand and Dagger pub at Bridge 26, and begin your journey paddling Northward through open countryside. It's one of the most serene options for summer activities in Lancashire. Pass under the M55 motorway before gliding through four miles of pristine countryside.
In Bilsborrow, the canal gently passes beneath major roads, offering a brief glimpse of the outside world before returning to the peaceful countryside. Continue past Greenhalgh Castle’s ruins and cross the River Wyre via the John Rennie-designed stone aqueduct. Finish at Garstang Marina, where Th’Owd Tithe Barn awaits—one of the top-rated canalside pubs, perfect for a post-paddle pint or Sunday roast.
End Location: Th’Owd Tithe Barn, Church Street, Preston, PR3 1PA
Route Information
Location: Lanceshire
Nearest Cities: Preston / Lancaster
Public Transportation: Train to Salwick / Bus to Sainsbury’s, Garstang
Distance: 7 miles
The Poachers Pocket to Trevor Basin – Llangollen Canal (Denbighshire)
Start your adventure at The Poachers Pocket, paddling northwest along the breathtaking Llangollen Canal. Soon you’ll cross the striking Chirk Aqueduct, running parallel to the railway viaduct. Continue through Whitehouses Tunnel (191 yards). However, depending on conditions you may need to get out and walk around the tunnel. Passing Froncysyllte, the route winds through scenic countryside before reaching the breathtaking Pontcysyllte Aqueduct—126 feet above the River Dee.
This route is ideal for those looking for unique summer activities. End your journey at Trevor Basin, where The Telford Inn provides a perfect spot to unwind with a drink and take in the views.
Be mindful of boat traffic on the aqueducts and check tunnel conditions before setting off.
End Location: The Telford Inn, New Rd, Trevor, Llangollen LL20 7TT
Route Information
Location: Denbighshire
Nearest Cities: Wrexham / Llangollen
Public Transportation: 2 or T12 Bus to Poachers Pocket / 5 or T3 Bus to Trevor Old Station
Distance: 5 miles
Ready to paddle your way to the pub?
Whether you’re an experienced paddler or simply in it for the float and a pint, this is the best way to discover the best waterways and waterside pubs near you. All you have to do is grab your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and enjoy!
