Illustration — photo coming soon
The Kennet and Avon Canal runs through Devizes, and one of its most striking features is the Caen Hill flight—29 locks engineered around 1810 to manage a steep change in elevation.
This was part of a vital trade route connecting the Bristol Channel to the Thames before railways made canal transport less essential. Walking or cycling the towpath here is genuinely rewarding, particularly if you catch narrowboats working through the locks on a busy day. There's real satisfaction in watching the skill required to navigate boats through the water gates, and you'll develop a genuine appreciation for how effectively this system operated as a working waterway.
Between the locks, you'll find peaceful stretches ideal for a stroll or sitting quietly with a book. The whole setting has that unhurried quality that makes canal life so appealing. When you're ready to leave the water behind, Devizes town centre is just a short walk away. The market town offers a decent range of independent shops, cafes, and pubs worth exploring. The historic Wadworth Brewery continues operating here and frequently displays their impressive Shire horses. It's a solid base for exploring this corner of Wiltshire, which sits right on the edge of the Cotswolds, giving you access to both canal walks and the broader landscape beyond.
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