Gill and I spent a couple of nights in Chippenham, to explore the Kennet & Avon Canal. On the Sunday we parked at Semington and headed west, going as far as the outskirts of Bradford upon Avon. On the Monday we parked at the same place and headed east to Caen Hill Locks, near Devizes.
Sunday Afternoon : Semington to Bradford upon Avon
As it was a Sunday there was a lot of activity on the Canal, as well as the towpath. As the towpath is a national cycle route, we were surprised how narrow the path was in places.
Although it was busy, we still had plenty of times, with just us and nature. We kept seeing family groups of Ducks, Moorhens and other water loving birds, as we made our way along the Towpath
The approach to this bridge was steep from both sides, and a bit rough due to water erosion. Due to this and other minor issues, I will be grading the routes as Level 2 / 3 on my Accessible walks page
Monday : Semington to Caen Hill Locks
Today we parked up at the same point as yesterday, but headed east towards Devizes. When improvements were made to the A350 a new Aqueduct was put in, which include strips of vegetation on both sides of the canal
This family of Swans were busy preening, and as they did not want to move we had to go round them.
This is one of the points where the canal is wider, so that the boats can turn around. The towpath on todays section, was much more mobility scooter friendly. Which meant that it was easier to pass cyclists and walkers.
This was the main focus of todays trip, the Caen Hill locks which look more impressive to the eye, than any photo can show.
We ended up talking to boat owners and volunteers of the Canal & Rivers Trust, about the locks. We learnt a lot about the history of the canal, along with todays recreational use of it.
Although each of the 16 locks on the main climb, has its own reservoir, water supply was still a problem. So a few years ago they installed an electric pump, which moves a few million gallons a day.
This is two photos of the same boat, so the owner has a good sense of humour. At one point there were a few boats moored on the opposite side of the canal from the towpath. The owners had their little garden, including garden sheds.
While we had sunshine on Sunday, it was grey and overcast on Monday apart from the final 10 minutes back to the van. Despite all the boat activity, there was plenty of bird life, mainly Mallards, Moorhens and Swans.
