Walking

Pedestrian use of the Towpath

The Bridgewater Canal towpath is a 65 kilometre (39miles) linear route constructed all at one level. The Canal towpath is privately owned by the Manchester Ship Canal Company and connects urban conurbations with rural communities.

A walk into the past

The first section of the canal between Worsley and Stretford was opened in 1761 the remaining lengths of canal were completed some years later. There are many reminders of days long past if you know what to look for, these range from towing lines that have scoured grooves in the bridge abutments made when horses regularly towed barges and horse steps, places where horses and cattle could be removed from the canal after they had fallen in.

Many architectural features still remain including the packet boat steps at Worsley and Stockton Heath (canal bus stops in days past when travelling by road was difficult if not impossible at times), to original hump back canal bridges and turnover bridges (where the towpath changes sides necessary to transfer the tow horse from one bank to the other safely) and winding holes - places where longer boats can turn.

There are many other significant canal features, flora and fauna to be spotted as you walk along the towpath.

Walking has obvious health benefits and is free of charge along the towpath of the Bridgewater Canal and Bridgewater Way. However, we ask that you use the facility safely, take your litter home and if you are a dog walker clean up after your pet.

Click here for safety advice >>