Banish the winter blues, embrace the fresh air and explore 17 new walking routes on the nation's tranquil waterways this winter. The Canal & River Trust, working with the Royal Geographical Society and iFootpath, has created a host of easy to access walks that reveal the hidden history, architecture, wildlife and colourful narrowboats of our canals and rivers amidst relaxing views of the water.
Whether you want a short stomp with toddlers, a vigorous all-day hike with friends or a Sunday stroll to a cosy waterside pub, there are over 2,000 miles of traffic-free towpaths to explore in England and Wales.
Towpaths offer accessible and mostly level walking routes with little chance of getting lost as you follow the line of the meandering river or canal. Historic lock flights, charming hump-backed bridges and glimpses of the past - such as rope marks and mile posts - all add interest and no winter walk would be complete without coming across the welcoming lights of a friendly pub, café or teashop.
