These peaceful waters have recently been declared a Local Nature Reserve, recognising that it is a beautiful place to see and learn about wildlife. It is home to a variety of birdlife including swans, ducks, kingfishers and reed warblers. In summer the bank side vegetation is flourishing and abuzz with dragonflies, damselflies and butterflies.
ATTRACTIONS
Tiverton Canal Co. Horse-Drawn Barge
attractions
food & drink
historic churches
waterways
The Tiverton Canal Co. is home to one of the last Horse-Drawn Barges in Great Britain. The Grand Western Canal (the local section known as the Tiverton Canal) overlooks the historic market town of Tiverton. The canal is a Country Park and meanders it’s way through 11 miles of agricultural land and small pockets of woodland providing spectacular views of the surrounding Devonshire countryside.
The canal, which was completed in 1814, has a fascinating history of horse-drawn tub boats conveying stone from the quarries to the kilns at Tiverton, and many of the original structures, such as limekilns, bridges and wharves, are in evidence. Trade ceased during the 1920s.
Today, the most unique and intriguing way to explore the canal is aboard the horse-drawn barge. It's the last of its kind in the West Country and one of only a few remaining in England today. From April to October 'Tivertonian' - a traditionally painted barge pulled by a shire horse in colourful harness and brasses - plies the canal. On board there is a licensed bar, hot drinks and ice cream.
The gentle pace of the shire horse, means no noise or pollution, and it is a rare chance to escape life’s pressures, indulge your senses and relax.
Fancy a bit of action? Then there's a great opportunity to hire a rowing boat or Canadian Canoe.
The Country Park has free access all year with car and coach parking and for those seeking the perfect place to unwind the Ducks Ditty Floating Café Bar, permanently moored at Tiverton Wharf, is a unique canalside experience. For more information and Group Discounts on horse-drawn barge call 01884 253345.
Address: Tiverton Canal Co., The Wharf, Canal Hill, Tiverton, Devon EX16 4HX
Telephone: 01884 253345
Email: Send email
Website: Tiverton Canal Co.
Barge timetable & fares: View timetable & fares
Boat hire opening times and charges: View boat hire times and charges
Toilets: Yes (nearby)
Car park: Yes (nearby)
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