Bradford on Avon to Avoncliff Aqueduct Circular

This 8 km circular from Bradford on Avon pairs the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath with a quieter countryside return through fields and lanes above the Avon valley. The outward leg follows the canal towards Avoncliff, where the aqueduct carries the waterway high above the river and railway in one of the most impressive feats of canal engineering in the country. The return climbs gently through farmland with views across the valley before dropping back into the town. The 197 m of climbing is concentrated on the inland return, giving the walk two distinct characters: flat, easy towpath on the way out and rolling countryside on the way back.

Dogs get a well-rounded dog friendly walk here with excellent variety. The canal towpath is rich with waterside scent, and the still water attracts birdlife and carries the damp, weedy smell that keeps dogs engaged along the bank. The inland section provides a change of pace with open fields, hedgerow scent and higher ground. Off-lead potential is moderate, with the towpath requiring awareness of other walkers and cyclists, and the farmland return crossing fields where livestock may be present. The aqueduct at Avoncliff makes a natural stopping point, with a dog-welcoming pub right at the crossing. The mix of easy canal walking and gently hilly countryside makes this a satisfying half-day that suits most dogs.