Grand Union Canal: Hatton Locks Circuit

Hatton Locks on the Grand Union Canal holds the famous Stairway to Heaven — a flight of 21 locks climbing steadily through open Warwickshire countryside over 3.2 kilometres. This 8 km circular follows the towpath uphill alongside the locks before looping back through farmland and quiet country lanes. The sound of lock gates, rushing sluice water and the gentle clanking of narrowboat gear provides a constant soundtrack, and watching boats rise and fall between levels is genuinely mesmerising. The walking is flat on the towpath and gently undulating through the fields.

This dog friendly walk is endlessly stimulating for curious dogs. The canal provides constant water access, the lock activity creates fascinating sounds and movement, and the towpath offers steady, rhythmic walking ideal for building distance. Off-lead potential is moderate on the quieter towpath stretches, though leads are sensible near the busier lock areas and through farmland where livestock is moderately likely. The Waterman pub near the top of the flight is dog-friendly and makes a natural halfway stop. An easy, accessible walk with far more character than you might expect from a canal route.