Devizes Marina

The canal was originally built to connect London and Bristol, and though it fell into decline, it's been carefully restored over recent decades. The marina itself is lively, with narrowboats moored alongside and the constant activity of canal life to observe if you're happy to stay ashore.

If you want to get out on the water, boat hire is usually available here, offering a relaxed way to experience the canal at your own pace. Even without a boat, the towpaths on either side are excellent for walking or cycling. Head towards Devizes and you'll soon reach Caen Hill Locks, a Georgian-era engineering achievement that's genuinely striking to see in operation. The flight of 29 locks climbs a steep section of the canal, and watching boats and their crews navigate through is absorbing, whether you're fascinated by transport history or just passing through.

Devizes itself is barely a few minutes away and worth the short journey. It's a proper market town with good shops and restaurants, plus various historical attractions of its own. The combination of canal-side walking, the engineering spectacle of the locks, and the town's amenities makes this a solid stopping point whether you're a keen boater or simply after a good walk and some local atmosphere.