Coventry Canal towpath

The Coventry Canal towpath forms a hidden green corridor through the city which is useful for commuting and ideal for family cycling, or for anyone wanting to escape the city without really having to leave.

This route starts at a point just west of the junction of Leicester Causeway and Stoney Stanton Road (the B4109), about a mile north-east of the City Centre. From here you cycle along the canal towpath to the Conservation Area at Hawkesbury Lock, where the Coventry and Oxford Canals meet – an excellent place to stop, eat and drink.

Coventry City Centre is home to Coventry Transport Museum – the world’s largest collection of British road transport – as well as Coventry Cathedral.

The Coventry Canal survived the severe bombing of the city during the blitz, but after the war was in danger of being built over. It was saved by local volunteers. The restored Coventry Canal Basin is now home to shops, small businesses and an art gallery, as well as a colourful collection of narrowboats. The towpath is great for walking and cycling, and along the way you can admire award-winning artworks by local artists.

Beyond Coventry, the canal is very rural, and home to lots of wildlife – you may spot kingfishers, white-clawed crayfish, dragonflies and herons...even the odd otter or water vole.

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Please note

We have taken all responsible steps to ensure that these routes are safe and achievable by people with a reasonable level of fitness.

However, all outdoor activities involve a degree of risk. To the extent permitted by law, Sustrans accepts no responsibility for any accidents or injury resulting from following these routes.

Walking and cycling routes change over time. Weather conditions may also affect path surfaces.

Please use your own judgement when using the routes based upon the weather and the ability, experience and confidence levels of those in your group.

To make sure everyone gets the most out of their time by the water, please ensure you follow the Towpath Code.

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