Summer canal walks

Walking by water makes you feel happier and healthier. Stepping off the pavement and onto the towpath can instantly make everything seem better. With the sunlight reflecting on the water, the flowers in full bloom and trees providing shade, there's no question that summer is a glorious time for a waterside walk. Our 2m000 miles of towpaths wind a peaceful path through the twons, cities and countryside of England and Wales.

Staying safe in the summer

We want everyone to enjoy our waterways safely. Always remember sun cream, a sunhat and a bottle of water when you're out and about in the summer sun.

• Read more on summer water safety

Remember, the water may look inviting, but open water swimming can be dangerous. We've put together some useful information about swimming in canals and rivers.

Where to go

The best thing about walking along our canals is that the ground is (nearly) always flat. The second best thing is that it's almost impossible to get lost. So once you've found your favourite canal, you can just follow your nose and go wherever takes your fancy.

Alternatively you could check out our recommended places to visit, enjoy a fun-packed family day out and take a canalside stroll while you're there.

Walks near me

Walks in the shade

It's cooler by the water. Many of our towpaths enjoy the shade of nearby trees, woods and ancient hedgerows. Here are some of our favourite shaded routes.

Wildlife watching

Our canals provide a home for nature, even in the centre of towns. As well as mallards and moorhens, you could be lucky enough to spot a kingfisher or a heron. Look out for dragonflies flitting over the surface of the water.

Pack a picnic

You won't have to wander far along a towpath before coming across an inviting pub beer garden or a welcoming café. Our canals also have perfect places for picnics.

Leave the car at home

At this time of year we benefit from lighter mornings and evenings, so it's the perfect season to leave the car at home and commute to work along the towpath instead. Our canals often offer an alternative to busy roads and using them as part of your daily commute gives you a sense of wellbeing that no car or bus journey could. Look at our map to see if your office is close to a canal.