The Leicester Arm of the Grand Union Canal is one of the longer arms or branches of the canal. The river Soar flows into the Leicester Arm just above the city of Leicester. The canal then continues through the very heart of the city, flowing through sprawling countryside with a variety of open views and enclosed tree tunnels providing ample wildlife to observe. Look out for dragonflies and damselflies, herons and the occasional kingfisher as you paddle along!
There are several tunnels on this stretch, including Saddington Tunnel, Husbands Bosworth Tunnel and Crick Tunnel. Paddlers should not paddle through these tunnels without prior permission from the Canal & River Trust. If you don’t have permission, please portage the tunnels. If you do have permission, make sure you adhere to their tunnel safety rules.
The Leicester Arm eventually joins the main section of the Grand Union canal just above Buckby Locks before continuing south.