A Canalside Caper

A Canalside Caper

I’ve always felt an affinity for canals and been fascinated by them. This might be because the Grand Union Canal runs close by the village where I grew up and so I spent a lot of time walking along towpaths as a child. My school also seemed to visit the Canal Museum quite often (although at the time I was only interested in the horses that used to pull the boats). Also, I’ve recently found out that some of my ancestors were boat people. Anyway, whatever the reason, I really do enjoy walking beside the canal in Northamptonshire. There’s always plenty to look at, from gorgeous countryside views to quaintly named boats; plus there’s often a pub or two and it’s hard to get lost. The perfect ingredients for a walk!
We decided to make the most of the late summer sun and head out to Gayton Junction (where the Northampton Arm meets the Grand Union) for a wander.

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Now Baby is a bit bigger he looks so much more comfortable in the carrier. He really enjoys our outings.

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The Grand Union Canal runs from London to Birmingham, we didn’t walk all of it!

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The Tollkeeper’s Cottage at Gayton Junction

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The narrow boats looked resplendent in the sunshine

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The ‘turnover bridge’ has a separate path where the horses could change sides without having to untie the tow rope

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There is beautiful, unspoilt countryside both sides of the canal

I really enjoyed this short walk, next time I will plan a to go a bit further as there are so many lovely villages dotted nearby.

I would love to hear any recommendations for waterway walks across the country.

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Comments

  • mytravelmonkey mytravelmonkey September 18, at 11:18

    I agree, canal walks are so lovely. We do one near my father-in-laws in Manchester and I love watching the boats. What a gorgeous day you had and I’m glad you didn’t do the whole of it… I would have been flabbergasted. I know you like walking 🙂 #MondayEscapes

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