British Waterways

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Chasecycling.co.uk

 

British Waterways cares for over 2,000 miles of canals and rivers around the country. There are over 1,500 miles of towpaths beside these waterways.  These towpaths were originally constructed to allow horses to pull laden boats. We support and wish to encourage cycling where it is safe and sustainable to do so.
 

British Waterways welcomes careful

cyclists.

Some towpaths on the canal system are becoming part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network. Over the next few years, in partnership with local authorities, we aim to improve many stretches of towpath and open more of them to cyclists.
 

Not all our towpaths are open to cyclists. Many stretches are too rough or narrow. The surfaces of the towpaths vary considerably around the country, from asphalt and tarmac to grass or stony ground, and each waterway could have a combination of these surfaces. Our network maps indicate which general areas are open to cycling. Our local waterway offices can provide details of the surfaces you will encounter cycling in their area.   

 

Getting Started

Before taking to the towpath on your bike you should obtain a Cycle Permit, which you will need to display. These are available from our Customer Service Centre, or by filling in this form. Cycle Permits are available free of charge for all waterways.

 

Please don't damage the excellent towing path surface. 

 

  Do take all your litter home.

  Respect wild life

Visit British Waterways

Lichfield and Hatherton

 Canals Restoration Trust Ltd

 

 

 

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Canal towing path has now been upgraded for cycling between Chasewater Dam and Aldridge.
 

From the Dam, follow NCN route 5 towards Brownhills, but at Burntwood road bridge stay on canal to Ogley Junction. (nr Grasmere gardens. Food available), Turn right over Iron foot bridge and continue to Anchor bridge and Cats Hill Junction. Here you can turn left for Walsall Wood and Aldridge. Turning right will take you to Brownhills, (take care over green foot bridge),  or continue to rejoin the National Cycle Network route 5, for  Pelsall and Walsall.
 

Waterways Code: For Cyclists

Look After Your Waterways

avoid cycling where your tyres would damage the path or verges (e.g. when they are wet or soft)

Consider Others

  • give way to others on the towpath and warn them of your approach

  • dismount under low or blind bridges or where the path is narrow

  • never race one another

  • we recommend you obtain third party liability insurance and equip your bike with a bell or equivalent

Take Care

Access paths can be steep and slippery.

 Join or leave the towpath with care.


Take special care if cycling at night.

Use front and rear lights.


Thorny hedge trimmings can cause a puncture. We recommend plastic-reinforced tyres.
 

British Waterways

None Emergency Hot Line Reporting Problems and Vandalism

08451 135000