Regent’s Canal is an 8.6-mile waterway linking Little Venice with Limehouse and the Thames, passing through North London. Walk a short stretch or follow the towpath between Camden and Little Venice: the route shifts from Camden’s lively market area to quieter waterside views, with colourful narrowboats, old bridges and ivy-covered walls along the way. Stop at Word on the Water, a floating bookshop, or pause at a canalside café. The towpath is shared by walkers, runners and cyclists, so keep close watch on young children.
A towpath through North London
Regent’s Canal runs from Little Venice, where it connects with the Grand Union Canal, to Limehouse and the River Thames. The waterway was completed in 1820 and designed by John Nash to carry cargo through inner London. Today, its towpath gives walkers and cyclists a quieter route across North London, away from busy roads.
The full canal is about 8.6 miles long. You can follow it for a long walk or choose a shorter section. The stretch between Camden and Little Venice passes through several neighbourhoods, and the scenery changes as you go: Camden brings a lively market atmosphere, while Little Venice has wider water and a quieter feel.
What to look for along the water
Colourful narrowboats and old bridges are among the canal’s most recognisable sights. On quieter stretches, the water reflects overhanging trees and brick walls, and you may spot birds and other wildlife. Near London Zoo, the canal passes close to the grounds; a view of some animals is possible from the path if you find the right angle.
Word on the Water, a floating bookshop, makes a distinctive stop along the canal. Cafés and other places to pause are dotted along the route, including around Camden and Little Venice. At Camden Lock, you can leave the towpath to visit Camden Market and its street-food stalls, then return to the canal.
Choosing a route or boat trip
For a shorter outing, walk one section of the towpath rather than setting out to cover the full canal. One suggested route follows the water from Camden Market towards Granary Square; another starts in Little Venice and heads east towards Camden Lock. The towpath is narrow in places and shared by people walking, running and cycling, so keep children close.
Boat trips provide another way to see the canal. Cruises run between Little Venice and Camden Lock, passing leafy edges of Regent’s Park and London Zoo and travelling through Maida Hill Tunnel. Go Boats are self-drive electric boats, including dog-friendly options. Fishing is also possible with a rod licence.
FAQ
How long is Regent’s Canal?
The canal is about 8.6 miles long, running from Little Venice to Limehouse and the River Thames.
Can you walk along Regent’s Canal?
Yes. You can walk the towpath for the full route or choose a shorter section, such as Camden to Little Venice.
Are there boat trips on Regent’s Canal?
Yes. Canal boat cruises run between Little Venice and Camden Lock. Self-drive Go Boats are another option, including dog-friendly boats.
Is Regent’s Canal suitable for young children?
The towpath is narrow in places and shared by walkers, runners and cyclists, so keep young children close.
