Goldwell Park & Kennett and Avon Canal loop from Newbury

Embark on an easy 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike along the Goldwell Park & Kennett and Avon Canal loop from Newbury, offering a pleasant journey with only 47 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain. This route, which takes about 1 hour and 24 minutes, guides you along the historic Kennet and Avon Canal, where you can admire colorful narrowboats and well-preserved locks. You'll pass through Victoria Park, enjoying traditional English parkland scenery before the canal banks open up to views of the rolling Kennet Valley. Keep an eye out for swans and other waterfowl as you follow the generally level towpaths, though some sections can become muddy after rain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is easily accessible from Newbury town center. The Goldwell car park serves as an ideal starting point, offering free parking on Sundays. While the paths are mostly accessible, it's wise to wear appropriate footwear, especially after wet weather, to handle any muddy sections of the towpath. You can also explore local shops, cafes, and pubs in Newbury before or after your hike, or even consider a canal boat trip from Newbury Wharf.

This loop offers a tangible connection to history, following a section of the Kennet and Avon Canal, which was completed in 1810 as a vital trade route. You can witness the well-preserved Newbury Lock, a Grade II-listed structure that remains fully operational. Beyond the canal's historical significance, you might spot overgrown WWII pillboxes every half-mile along the towpath, hinting at its past strategic importance. The route's flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it an easy hike suitable for any fitness level.