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Grand Western Canal Country Park

Tiverton, United Kingdom•4.7(972)•Country Park, Nature Reserve, Playground

Explore 11¼ miles of historic canal through scenic countryside with walking, cycling, boating, and a play park for families.

Grand Western Canal Country Park and Local Nature Reserve is a beautifully preserved waterway spanning 11¼ miles between Tiverton and Lowdwells on the Somerset border. With over 200 years of history, the canal features many original structures and historic buildings that tell the story of its past, including the famous Tivertonian traditional horse-drawn barge. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of outdoor activities suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Walking and cycling trails wind through peaceful countryside villages, while the canal itself offers boating opportunities for those seeking water-based adventures. The Nature Trail provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting and learning about the local ecosystem. For younger children, the Canal Basin Play Park offers dedicated play facilities. Additional attractions include angling spots along the canal, geocaching adventures for treasure hunters, and access to a visitor centre with information about the canal's fascinating heritage and wildlife. The park is dog-friendly and offers food and drink facilities, making it an ideal destination for families looking to spend a full day outdoors. Accessibility facilities and accommodation options are available for visitors requiring them.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: 00:00 – 23:59
Tuesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Wednesday: 00:00 – 23:59
Thursday: 00:00 – 23:59
Friday: 00:00 – 23:59
Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
Sunday: 00:00 – 23:59

Venue Details

Venue Type

Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

Recommended ages

0 months (newborn)+

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly
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Google Reviews

4.7(972 reviews)
J
Janet Lewis

Janet Lewis

3 months ago

Beautiful place, the staff in the barge,which serves food,drinks and ice cream were really friendly,cheerful and polite. There is also another barge which is pulled along the canal by a shire horse. Would definitely recommend for any age group.

C
Clare Swettenham

Clare Swettenham

4 months ago

A brilliant afternoon of unadulterated mindfulness in beautiful surroundings. Dave and his lovely crew, including George the horse, were all brilliant. Highly recommend this experience. It's a proper treat for the senses and the soul.

A
Andrew Johnson

Andrew Johnson

6 months ago

Good walk, for those who run or take a dog out, not enough dog waste areas so some bags left on pathway. Good route around back to farm shop where car was left.

J
john milford

john milford

8 months ago

Visit often, start walks at different places along the canal, a very peaceful place, just watch out for the few cyclist who think they own the tow path but most are pleasant. Also beware as a few dog owners are very lazy and anti social. they cannot be bothered to clear up after their pet. Most of the people that walk their dogs are responsable its just a few. The wild life is brilliant especially if your sharp eyed you may see one of the many kingfishers flying fast and low over the water and occassionally diving for their dinner. Lots of other interesting water fowl to if you look carefully at some points into the canal you may even see a carp or other fish swimming along.

S
Stuart Speer

Stuart Speer

2 years ago

Went here yesterday on 17th August with a group of 11 of us, to enjoy an outing with several Birthdays, together. Having a horse drawn barge experience was all part of that too. A wonderful gentle (step out of the rat race) moment to enjoy too. The facilities and service across the site are great and personable. There are floating cafe barges, tea rooms, a retail/souvenir shop, a visitor centre and toilet facilities, as well as the large horse drawn barge to take in. All great and the actual ride experience is serene and pleasant...with the bar run by the welcoming Sue on the barge is marvellous too.

Reviews last updated: 29 September 2026

Events at Grand Western Canal Country Park

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 29 September 2026

Frequently asked questions about Grand Western Canal Country Park

Is Grand Western Canal Country Park free to visit?

Entry to Grand Western Canal Country Park is completely free — there are no admission charges, making it a great no-cost option for a family day out.

What ages is Grand Western Canal Country Park suitable for?

Grand Western Canal Country Park is suitable for visitors of all ages, from babies through to adults.

Is Grand Western Canal Country Park dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Grand Western Canal Country Park.

Is there parking at Grand Western Canal Country Park?

Yes — Grand Western Canal Country Park has on-site parking, plus additional parking nearby.

Is there food at Grand Western Canal Country Park?

Yes, food is available on site at Grand Western Canal Country Park.

Is Grand Western Canal Country Park pushchair-friendly?

Yes, Grand Western Canal Country Park is pushchair, pram and buggy friendly — most areas are step-free so you can navigate easily with little ones in tow.

How long should we plan to spend at Grand Western Canal Country Park?

Grand Western Canal Country Park is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Grand Western Canal Country Park by public transport?

Grand Western Canal Country Park is well-served by public transport.
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