Grand Western Canal
13 miles from Exeter • 11.25 miles of towpath (do sections)
The Grand Western Canal is an 11.25 mile Devon County Council Country Park - a beautiful waterway through the Devon countryside. Flat, easy towpath perfect for dog walking. Ample dog poo bins. Wheelchair accessible. Historic horse-drawn barge trips available from the Basin.
© Lewis Clarke, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Geograph
Easy
11.25 miles of towpath (do sections)
Lead required
Canal Basin: £2 up to 2 hours, £4 all day. Annual permit £25. Free parking at Tiverton Road Bridge and Greenway car parks.
Overview
The Grand Western Canal is an 11.25 mile Devon County Council Country Park - a beautiful waterway through the Devon countryside. Flat, easy towpath perfect for dog walking. Ample dog poo bins. Wheelchair accessible. Historic horse-drawn barge trips available from the Basin.
What to Expect
Flat, easy towpath walking alongside a peaceful canal. Watch for herons, kingfishers, and other wildlife. Historic horse-drawn barge trips. Canal Tea Rooms and the Duck Ditty Floating Cafe & Bar at the basin. Very peaceful atmosphere throughout.
Best For
- ✓Easy flat walking
- ✓Accessible paths (wheelchairs/buggies)
- ✓Scenic canal views
- ✓Ample dog poo bins
- ✓Wildlife watching
- ✓Hot weather (shaded sections)
- ✓Longer distance options
Not Ideal For
- ⚠Off-lead exercise (shared path)
- ⚠Hills and varied terrain
Things to Be Aware Of
- ⚠Keep dogs on lead - shared with cyclists and horse-drawn barges
- ⚠Near water throughout
- ⚠Can be slippery when wet
Local Tips from Evie
Start at Tiverton Basin for facilities, cafes and the horse-drawn barge. Walk towards Sampford Peverell for peaceful stretches. Free parking at Tiverton Road Bridge if Basin is full. Annual parking permit £25 if you visit regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Grand Western Canal?
11.25 miles of towpath through Devon countryside. Most people walk sections rather than the whole thing.
Is the Grand Western Canal accessible?
Yes! The towpath is largely flat and even, surfaced with compacted limestone chippings. Good for wheelchairs and mobility buggies.
Where can I park for the Grand Western Canal?
Main car park at Tiverton Basin (pay and display). Free parking at Tiverton Road Bridge and Greenway car park.
Practical Information
Canal Basin, Canal Hill, Tiverton
EX16 4HX
Main car park at Canal Basin, Tiverton - pay and display (well signposted with brown tourist signs). Free parking at Tiverton Road Bridge and Greenway car park. Smaller access points from roads connecting Tiverton, Halberton, Sampford Peverell, Burlescombe and Holcombe Rogus. Layby parking on Tiverton-Halberton road with wheelchair ramps.
Need a Dog Walker?
I walk dogs at Grand Western Canal regularly. Get in touch if you need help.
Contact Me
