Solitude isn't the same thing as loneliness. Solitude can be good for us, allowing us to clear our minds, think things through and balance ourselves out. The great news is that thanks to our work to keep every mile of canal open year-round there are plenty of places on our waterways where you can escape the crowds.
We've put together a list of some of our more peaceful places to visit. All of these places are great for a walk or just to sit on a bench and relax. If you want a truly lone experience walk along the towpath for ten minutes and you'll be almost guaranteed to find some solitude for a few precious moments.
Drakeholes, Chesterfield Canal
Drakeholes is a Site of Special Scientific Interest so the chances are that you'll share the towpath with plenty of wildlife. We've made sure that this stretch of canal is the perfect place for a contemplative walk.
Sutton Cheney, Ashby Canal
Head away from the Wharf and tea rooms and you'll be treated to the perfect rural canal experience. There may be crowds nearby at the Bosworth Battlefield Centre but you can escape to the canal for some peace and quiet.
Woodlesford Lock, Aire & Calder Navigation
Just five miles from Leeds city centre this stretch of canal offers the perfect escape from the big city. Running alongside Rothwell Country Park you may share the towpath with other people and families looking to get away from it all but walk along the towpath far enough and you're almost guaranteed to find yourself all alone.
Maunsel Lock, Bridgwater & Taunton Canal
Deep down in the West country the Bridgwater & Taunton Canal is a great place to find some time alone. Sit by the locks and watch the boats drift past or walk along the canal for a little way to spot some of the canal's abundant wildlife.
