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Towpath Talking Points

There are quite a few groups who use the towpath. Towpath talking points by or about the following are discussed in this section:

Boaters - Boaters handling their boats, accessing or exiting their boats, locks and amenities, towpath talking or just taking a canal walk. If it wasn't for licensed boaters then there wouldn't be the maintenance carried out making the towpath useable for many other parties.

Anglers - People fishing, accessing and exiting the canal towpath. For the pleasure or match angler. Requires a National Rod Licence and probably a club membership or day ticket on most waters. Information about free fishing in many areas is available at dofreefishing.com or dofreefishing.co.uk

Dog Walkers - People and dogs taking a canal walk, exercise and toileting. Responsible dog owners using the towpath walk keep their dogs under control and scoop the poop.

Cyclists - Cyclists generally using the towpath as a cycle route. There is a requirement to obtain a British Waterways Towpath Cyclists Permit.

Hikers on the Staffs & Worcester towpath at Acton Trussel

Walkers, Hikers and Ramblers - The canal walk is popular with individuals, families or groups of people enjoying the open air. As canals navigate through town and country - the towpath walk is a well trodden and generally well maintained, reasonable level path.

Bird Watchers - Some of the best bird watching is close to water. With many birds nesting in the canal environment.

Naturalists - Many of Britain's wild animals live around the canal system and become used to the presence of humans making them easier to observe.

Boat Watchers - 'Gongoozie' is the affectionate name for a boat watcher - Many people find pleasure in just watching the boats go by! Many locations are accessible by car avoiding a canal walk if necessary - especially the canal side restaurants or pubs!

Gongoozies waiting for the next boat

For more information you can always visit the British Waterways Website.

• Tow Path Talking Points..
• The Horse Drawn Boat Centre Llangollen
• Canal and river fishing
• Torrington Canal
• Canals and waterways
• Waterways Cycle Permit
• Waterways code for boaters
• Astley Green Colliery Museum