Ashby Canal, Hinckley to Sutton Cheney Wharf Paddle Trail

1.5-3 hours

Duration

6 miles

Distance

One Way

Easy

Difficulty

LE10 3ED

Start Postcode

CV13 0AL

End Postcode

A. Put in near the pub and turn right, away from the A5 road bridge. You are heading through the outskirts of Hinckley.

B. After half a mile there is a branch in the canal. Keep left under the bridge.

C. After one mile pass Trinity Marina on your right, where there is also a Brewers Fayre pub.

D. Another quarter of a mile brings you under the A47 road bridge, emerging from the bridge you will see the Triumph motorcycle factory on your right.

E. Follow the canal, through peaceful countryside, past moored barges and under bridges.

F. As you go under Sutton Wharf Bridge (no. 34), Sutton Cheney Wharf comes into view and this marks the end of your six mile paddle.

Discover More

Have an adventure on this trail, which is also known as the Ashby de la Zouch canal, as the waterway weaves its way through a mostly agricultural backdrop. Ashby Canal opened in 1804 and is 31 miles long. It was built to connect the mining district of Moira with the Coventry Canal. Despite it being named after Ashby De La Zouche, it never actually reached the town.

Sutton Cheney is close to the location of the Battle of Bosworth and the Bosworth Battle Heritage Centre.

Sutton Cheney Wharf has good facilities, with toilets close to the water’s edge. There is a lawned area as you get out and a licensed cafe/restaurant serving hot/cold food.

Licence Information

The waterways in this trail are managed by the Canal & River Trust, and it is a requirement for paddlers to hold a licence. Paddle UK’s On The Water membership includes an annual licence for here as well as other waterways.

When paddling, have your membership card with you as proof of licence; otherwise, you could face a fine. Get your digital membership card straight away with your licence and liability insurance included from www.paddleuk.org.uk.

JOIN PADDLE UK

Safety Information

We want you to have fun and a safe paddle! Here are some helpful tips to ensure you paddle responsibly and stay safe on your journey. Please take a moment to review these important safety tips:

– Always wear a correctly sized buoyancy aid

– Carry a mobile phone – in a waterproof case

– Tell Someone Where You’re Going

– Check the weather and conditions

– Know your limits

Check out some useful blogs and e-learnings on how to keep safe

Environment

Wherever and however you paddle, our Paddlers’ Code helps to ensure we can all enjoy and share the water safely and protect our precious environment.

Don’t get sick doing what you love. We know water quality is a concern for many paddlers. Click here for some simple advice on water quality and how to protect yourself.

Get informed, stay safe and make good decisions by checking the National Storm Overflow Map

Paddlers can play a vital role in keeping our waters free of harmful non-native species. It is crucial you Check, Clean and Dry you boat and equipment to prevent the spread. Click here for more information on Invasive Non-Native Species.

For more environmental advice and guidance, see our Blue Space Blogs section on the Paddle UK website.