Regent's Canal Walk and Cycle
8.7 miles (14 km)Follow the Regent's canal through Regent's Park and Central London on this pleasant waterside cycling and walking route.
Starting at the Little Venice basin in Maida Vale, you follow the canal into Regent’s Park where you will find the famous Zoo. You then pass through Camden, with its popular market, before continuing towards the East End.
The route then passes the revived Mile End Park with its arts pavilion, terraced gardens and green bridge with views of Canary Wharf.... You finish at the River Thames at Limehouse Basin.
You can extend your outing by picking up the Jubilee Greenway circular walk. The waymarked trail visits some of the capital's best parks and most famous landmarks. It uses the canal for part of the route.
At the western end the canal joins with the Paddington Canal, an arm of the Grand Union Canal. You can follow the towpath west through Little Venice to Westbourne, Alperton, Harlesden and Hayes.
Pubs and More Info
In Regent's Park there's a couple of fine options for refreshments. The Boathouse Cafe is a family restaurant with a large terrace seating area where you can sit outside and enjoy views of the lake. It is located on The Boating Lake near Hanover Gate and sells sandwiches, toasties, flat bread pizza’s, soup, stew, cakes and snacks.
The Regent's Bar & Kitchen is located in the middle of Regent's Park on the Inner Circle, close to the Open Air Theatre and to the Queen Mary's Gardens. In good weather it includes a terrace BBQ offering burgers, hot dogs and vegetarian options alongside ice cold draft beer and Pimm's during the summer.
At Limehouse Basin you can pick up the Lea Valley Walk and follow it north along the River Lea navigation to Hackney Marshes.
At De Beauvoir you can pick up Cycle Superhighway 1 where it crosses the canal. The signed trail runs from Tottenham to Seven Sisters, Stamford Hill, Stoke Newington, Dalston, De Beauvoir and Hoxton before finishing in The City near Shoreditch, Spitalfields and the Barbican.
For more walking ideas in the city see the London Walks page.
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Jubilee Greenway Regent's Park Paddington Canal Little Venice London Walk Cycle Superhighway 1 Camden to Kings Cross Canal Walk
Photos
Regents Canal 1. In the backround is St Mark's Church, Regents Park. The canal was built during the early 19th century with the architect and town planner John Nash playing a significant role. In 1811 he had produced a masterplan for George IV, then Prince Regent, to redevelop a large area of central north London with the canal included as part of the scheme.
In its early years, the canal played a vital role in the transportation of coal, timber, and other goods, linking the docks of East London with the factories and warehouses of the north and west. However, like many of Britain’s canals, it fell into decline with the advent of the railways and motor transport. By the mid-20th century, the canal had become neglected and was little used. Its revival began in the 1960s and 1970s as part of a broader movement to preserve Britain's canal network, recognising the value of these historic waterways for leisure and recreation.
The canal has also become a popular cycling route, especially after the 2005 London Bombings, as commuters sought alternative means of travel. The canal's towpath is now part of National Cycle Route 1, which runs from Limehouse Basin to Mile End, and further along the canal. Despite the narrow path, studies by British Waterways have found that conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists have been relatively rare, suggesting that shared use of the towpath is generally safe and manageable.
In its early years, the canal played a vital role in the transportation of coal, timber, and other goods, linking the docks of East London with the factories and warehouses of the north and west. However, like many of Britain’s canals, it fell into decline with the advent of the railways and motor transport. By the mid-20th century, the canal had become neglected and was little used. Its revival began in the 1960s and 1970s as part of a broader movement to preserve Britain's canal network, recognising the value of these historic waterways for leisure and recreation.
The canal has also become a popular cycling route, especially after the 2005 London Bombings, as commuters sought alternative means of travel. The canal's towpath is now part of National Cycle Route 1, which runs from Limehouse Basin to Mile End, and further along the canal. Despite the narrow path, studies by British Waterways have found that conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists have been relatively rare, suggesting that shared use of the towpath is generally safe and manageable.
Camden Town and lock. Taken on a lovely mid summer day with a weeping willow in the background. In this area you can visit the famous Camden Markets. The markets are a vibrant and eclectic collection of markets that have become a major attraction in London. Renowned for their cosmopolitan image, the markets sell an array of goods including crafts, clothing, books, bric-a-brac, and a diverse range of fast food options from around the world. They attract approximately 250,000 visitors each week, making them the fourth-most popular visitor attraction in the capital.
The markets' origins date back to a small local food market on Inverness Street, which began operating at the start of the 20th century. This market initially focused on fresh produce and was the only significant market in the area at the time. However, the landscape of Camden’s markets began to change in 1974 when a small weekly crafts market was established near Camden Lock. This market operated every Sunday and gradually expanded into a large complex of interconnected markets. The Camden Lock Market was the first of these to gain prominence, initially featuring only temporary stalls. Over the years, it grew into a mixture of permanent and temporary stalls, selling a broad range of unique and artistic goods. As the popularity of Camden Markets grew, they began to operate on Saturdays as well as Sundays, and many traders in fixed premises started opening throughout the week.
Inverness Street Market, which once thrived on selling fresh produce, has seen a transformation as well. The advent of local supermarkets led to a decline in the traditional stalls, and by 2013, the original produce stalls had all disappeared. Today, Inverness Street Market offers stalls similar to those found in the other Camden markets, including a variety of fast food vendors.
The markets' origins date back to a small local food market on Inverness Street, which began operating at the start of the 20th century. This market initially focused on fresh produce and was the only significant market in the area at the time. However, the landscape of Camden’s markets began to change in 1974 when a small weekly crafts market was established near Camden Lock. This market operated every Sunday and gradually expanded into a large complex of interconnected markets. The Camden Lock Market was the first of these to gain prominence, initially featuring only temporary stalls. Over the years, it grew into a mixture of permanent and temporary stalls, selling a broad range of unique and artistic goods. As the popularity of Camden Markets grew, they began to operate on Saturdays as well as Sundays, and many traders in fixed premises started opening throughout the week.
Inverness Street Market, which once thrived on selling fresh produce, has seen a transformation as well. The advent of local supermarkets led to a decline in the traditional stalls, and by 2013, the original produce stalls had all disappeared. Today, Inverness Street Market offers stalls similar to those found in the other Camden markets, including a variety of fast food vendors.
Old Ford lock from Old Ford Bridge, Regent's Canal. An important staging-post in former days, close to the junction of the Hertford Union canal and with winding-hole to enable narrow boats to turn, this lock also had stabling for horses. Now it supplies water and disposal facilities to recreational boat people.
The canal forms a key junction with the Grand Junction Canal at Little Venice, a picturesque area just north of Paddington Basin. It then meanders through some of London's most iconic locations, including Regent's Park, where it skirts past the famous London Zoo and the base of Primrose Hill. Further along, it passes through the vibrant neighbourhoods of Camden Town and King’s Cross, where it bends sharply at Camley Street Natural Park and runs behind both St Pancras and King’s Cross railway stations. The canal continues eastward, intersecting with Broadway Market and meeting the Hertford Union Canal at Victoria Park. It then turns south, ultimately leading to the Limehouse Basin, where it connects with the Limehouse Cut before joining the River Thames. This stretch of waterway offers a mix of tranquil green spaces, bustling markets, and modern urban developments.
The canal forms a key junction with the Grand Junction Canal at Little Venice, a picturesque area just north of Paddington Basin. It then meanders through some of London's most iconic locations, including Regent's Park, where it skirts past the famous London Zoo and the base of Primrose Hill. Further along, it passes through the vibrant neighbourhoods of Camden Town and King’s Cross, where it bends sharply at Camley Street Natural Park and runs behind both St Pancras and King’s Cross railway stations. The canal continues eastward, intersecting with Broadway Market and meeting the Hertford Union Canal at Victoria Park. It then turns south, ultimately leading to the Limehouse Basin, where it connects with the Limehouse Cut before joining the River Thames. This stretch of waterway offers a mix of tranquil green spaces, bustling markets, and modern urban developments.
Regent's Canal, Victoria Park. Narrow boats moored on Regent's Canal between Old Ford Lock and Bonner Road Bridge. Photograph taken on a pleasant spring May day.
Victoria Park, affectionately known as "Vicky Park," is London's oldest public park, officially opened in 1845. It was established to provide a green space for the working-class residents of the East End of London, earning it the nickname "The People's Park." Spanning over 86 hectares, it is the largest park in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and has become a significant hub for community activities, events, and sports, attracting over 9 million visitors annually. The park plays a crucial role as a green link in a corridor that stretches from the River Thames at Limehouse, along the Regent's Canal, through Mile End Park, and connecting with the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Its location near the borough boundary with Hackney makes it accessible to a diverse range of Londoners. Victoria Park is highly regarded for its environmental management and heritage conservation, as demonstrated by its numerous awards. It has received the Green Flag Award, which recognises the best green spaces in the country, and the Green Heritage Site Accreditation for its historical significance. Impressively, the park has won the Green Flag People's Choice Award for 11 consecutive years, highlighting its popularity among visitors. It has also been awarded gold medals in the London in Bloom competition in both the Heritage Park and Large Park categories, further solidifying its status as a beloved and well-maintained urban oasis.
Victoria Park, affectionately known as "Vicky Park," is London's oldest public park, officially opened in 1845. It was established to provide a green space for the working-class residents of the East End of London, earning it the nickname "The People's Park." Spanning over 86 hectares, it is the largest park in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and has become a significant hub for community activities, events, and sports, attracting over 9 million visitors annually. The park plays a crucial role as a green link in a corridor that stretches from the River Thames at Limehouse, along the Regent's Canal, through Mile End Park, and connecting with the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Its location near the borough boundary with Hackney makes it accessible to a diverse range of Londoners. Victoria Park is highly regarded for its environmental management and heritage conservation, as demonstrated by its numerous awards. It has received the Green Flag Award, which recognises the best green spaces in the country, and the Green Heritage Site Accreditation for its historical significance. Impressively, the park has won the Green Flag People's Choice Award for 11 consecutive years, highlighting its popularity among visitors. It has also been awarded gold medals in the London in Bloom competition in both the Heritage Park and Large Park categories, further solidifying its status as a beloved and well-maintained urban oasis.
Regent's Canal by Regent's Park. Regent's Park is one of London’s Royal Parks, covering 410 acres in the heart of the city. It was designed by the renowned architect John Nash and named after the Prince Regent, later King George IV. The park was initially created for the exclusive use of the monarchy but was opened to the public in 1835. It is known for its beautifully landscaped gardens, open green spaces, and impressive array of facilities and attractions.
The park features the stunning Queen Mary’s Gardens, which boast over 12,000 roses of 400 varieties, making it one of the most beautiful rose gardens in London. Another notable feature is the Boating Lake, where visitors can hire pedalos and rowboats to enjoy a peaceful ride on the water. The park is also home to the Open Air Theatre, a unique venue that hosts a variety of performances during the summer months, offering a cultural experience in an idyllic setting.
Regent's Park is perhaps most famous for housing the ZSL London Zoo, the world’s oldest scientific zoo, which opened in 1828. The zoo features a vast collection of animals and plays a significant role in global conservation efforts. For sports enthusiasts, the park offers various facilities, including tennis courts, a cricket pitch, and several football fields. Additionally, the park’s Outer Circle provides a popular route for joggers and cyclists.
The park’s location and tranquil atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It serves as a green oasis amidst the bustling city, offering a space for recreation, relaxation, and nature appreciation. The nearby Regent’s Canal, which runs along the northern edge of the park, adds to its scenic charm.
The park features the stunning Queen Mary’s Gardens, which boast over 12,000 roses of 400 varieties, making it one of the most beautiful rose gardens in London. Another notable feature is the Boating Lake, where visitors can hire pedalos and rowboats to enjoy a peaceful ride on the water. The park is also home to the Open Air Theatre, a unique venue that hosts a variety of performances during the summer months, offering a cultural experience in an idyllic setting.
Regent's Park is perhaps most famous for housing the ZSL London Zoo, the world’s oldest scientific zoo, which opened in 1828. The zoo features a vast collection of animals and plays a significant role in global conservation efforts. For sports enthusiasts, the park offers various facilities, including tennis courts, a cricket pitch, and several football fields. Additionally, the park’s Outer Circle provides a popular route for joggers and cyclists.
The park’s location and tranquil atmosphere make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. It serves as a green oasis amidst the bustling city, offering a space for recreation, relaxation, and nature appreciation. The nearby Regent’s Canal, which runs along the northern edge of the park, adds to its scenic charm.
Little Venice, Regent's Canal. Little Venice is situated where the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent's Canal, this tranquil neighbourhood is lined with colourful narrowboats, waterside cafés, and lush greenery, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.
The origins of the name “Little Venice” are often attributed to the poet Robert Browning, who lived nearby and is believed to have coined the term, inspired by the area's idyllic canals and its resemblance to the Italian city. The area is distinctively quieter than much of London, offering a peaceful retreat with its serene waters and leafy surroundings.
One of the highlights of Little Venice is the opportunity to take a leisurely boat trip along the canal. Visitors can hop on a traditional narrowboat and cruise down the waterway to Camden Lock, passing through the picturesque Regent’s Park and London Zoo along the way. This scenic journey provides a unique perspective of some of London’s iconic attractions and is particularly popular during the warmer months. Little Venice is also home to the Puppet Theatre Barge, a unique, floating theatre offering puppet shows for children and adults alike. The area hosts the Canalway Cavalcade festival each May, celebrating the vibrant canal culture with boat parades, music, and activities for all ages.
One of the highlights of Little Venice is the opportunity to take a leisurely boat trip along the canal. Visitors can hop on a traditional narrowboat and cruise down the waterway to Camden Lock, passing through the picturesque Regent’s Park and London Zoo along the way. This scenic journey provides a unique perspective of some of London’s iconic attractions and is particularly popular during the warmer months. Little Venice is also home to the Puppet Theatre Barge, a unique, floating theatre offering puppet shows for children and adults alike. The area hosts the Canalway Cavalcade festival each May, celebrating the vibrant canal culture with boat parades, music, and activities for all ages.
Recreational fountains on a summer evening at Granary Square. King’s Cross and Granary Square have undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, evolving from a historically industrial area to one of London’s most vibrant cultural and social hubs. Once known primarily for its railway station and somewhat run-down surroundings, King’s Cross is now a bustling centre for arts, education, business, and leisure.
Granary Square, situated by the Regent’s Canal, is the heart of the King’s Cross redevelopment project. The square is flanked by the impressive Granary Building, a former Victorian warehouse that now houses Central Saint Martins, part of the University of the Arts London. This historic building, with its distinctive brick façade and contemporary interior, represents the successful blending of old and new that characterises the area. The square itself is a lively space, featuring over 1,000 choreographed fountains that light up at night, making it a popular spot for families and tourists alike. Granary Square is surrounded by a variety of eateries, bars, and cafés, offering everything from street food to fine dining. The area regularly hosts events, markets, and outdoor performances, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to its leisure and cultural offerings, King’s Cross has also become a major business district. Global companies like Google and Facebook have established headquarters here, drawn by the area’s excellent transport links and modern amenities. The development has brought a new dynamism to King’s Cross, attracting both professionals and visitors looking to explore this newly revitalised corner of London. The nearby Coal Drops Yard, a shopping and dining destination housed in restored Victorian coal warehouses, adds another layer to the area’s appeal.
Granary Square, situated by the Regent’s Canal, is the heart of the King’s Cross redevelopment project. The square is flanked by the impressive Granary Building, a former Victorian warehouse that now houses Central Saint Martins, part of the University of the Arts London. This historic building, with its distinctive brick façade and contemporary interior, represents the successful blending of old and new that characterises the area. The square itself is a lively space, featuring over 1,000 choreographed fountains that light up at night, making it a popular spot for families and tourists alike. Granary Square is surrounded by a variety of eateries, bars, and cafés, offering everything from street food to fine dining. The area regularly hosts events, markets, and outdoor performances, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to its leisure and cultural offerings, King’s Cross has also become a major business district. Global companies like Google and Facebook have established headquarters here, drawn by the area’s excellent transport links and modern amenities. The development has brought a new dynamism to King’s Cross, attracting both professionals and visitors looking to explore this newly revitalised corner of London. The nearby Coal Drops Yard, a shopping and dining destination housed in restored Victorian coal warehouses, adds another layer to the area’s appeal.
Limehouse Basin at the end of the route. Limehouse Basin is located in East London, and serves as a key gateway between the River Thames and the extensive network of over 2,000 miles of navigable canals and rivers throughout England. Originally developed as a dock in the early 19th century, it played a crucial role in the city's trade and maritime history, providing a point of exchange between seagoing ships and the canal network. Today, it has transformed into a vibrant marina, home to a variety of narrowboats, yachts, and even visiting ocean-going pleasure crafts.
Connected to the rest of the canal system via the Limehouse Cut—the oldest canal in London—Limehouse Basin has featured in popular culture, including a notable action sequence in a "Mission Impossible" film. The Limehouse Cut itself was completed in 1770 and played a significant role in the transportation of goods during the Industrial Revolution. The basin is now a popular destination for visitors, with its picturesque surroundings and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants that make it a perfect spot for a family day out or a leisurely afternoon stroll. One of the interesting features of the basin is the road swing bridge at the entrance to the Thames. When tall-mast boats arrive or leave, traffic on Narrow Street is stopped, and a siren and red lights warn of the impending movement. The barriers then come down, and the bridge swings open to allow the boats to pass, adding a unique, dynamic element to the area’s character.
Connected to the rest of the canal system via the Limehouse Cut—the oldest canal in London—Limehouse Basin has featured in popular culture, including a notable action sequence in a "Mission Impossible" film. The Limehouse Cut itself was completed in 1770 and played a significant role in the transportation of goods during the Industrial Revolution. The basin is now a popular destination for visitors, with its picturesque surroundings and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants that make it a perfect spot for a family day out or a leisurely afternoon stroll. One of the interesting features of the basin is the road swing bridge at the entrance to the Thames. When tall-mast boats arrive or leave, traffic on Narrow Street is stopped, and a siren and red lights warn of the impending movement. The barriers then come down, and the bridge swings open to allow the boats to pass, adding a unique, dynamic element to the area’s character.