Londons Canals & Rivers have a long history

The Waterways, built two hundred years ago to carry freight, form a large ring around and through London.

Begun in the late 18th Century, the majority of the canal system was built without the benefits of modern technology or public finance. From 1790 to 1929 a large number of competing , independently owned canals were constructed. Through a series of takeovers, the various companies eventually amalgamated and created a 'union' of canals which could form a continuous link between Birmingham, London and other important industrial areas. Along every stretch of canal, you will find this heritage retained. Traditionally painted narrowboats are still guided by original mile posts, whilst working examples of mills, pump houses, ancient locks and keeper's cottages are a common sight on any journey.

The Grand Union Today

Though originally intended for freight, the canal is no longer as important as a trade route and you will now see walkers, anglers and pleasure boaters enjoying the atmosphere of the Grand Union today.

The Grand Union is also an important green corridor for wildlife. Ducks, swans and moorhens are common. Here and there, a heron can be seen surveying its territory and if you are lucky you will spot a kingfisher. The towpath and canal margins contain a wide variety of wild flowers, including flowering rush, water dock and water lillies. In the summer dragonflies and damsal flies skim the surface of the water, to the delight of boaters and passers by.

Rickmansworth to Brentford

This final southern stretch of the main line of the Grand Union passes plenty of greenery and open spaces before joining the Thames at Brentford. Along this scenic stretch you'll find two Scheduled Ancient Monuments - Brunel's Three Bridges, and the Hanwell Flight of Locks plus several visitor attractions easily reached from the towpath.

Bulls Bridge to Little Venice

The Paddington Branch of the Grand Union runs just over 14 miles from Bulls Bridge in Southall, past Little Venice into Paddington Basin. The Basin is undergoing a major transformation and is currently the largest redevelopment project in Britain since Canary Wharf.