Fossdyke Navigation Paddle Trail

2.5-5.5 hours

Duration

11 miles

Distance

One Way

Easy

Difficulty

LN1 2EH

Start Postcode

LN1 1XJ

End Postcode

A. This route starts off as it means to go on; through the open countryside of Lincolnshire.

B. For the first 3 miles you will see open fields and only the odd house from the water.

C. At just over 3 miles you meet with the busy A57 road and track alongside it for the next few miles.

D. Pass under the railway at Saxilby around 5 miles in, continuing to follow the A57, on your right, as you
leave the village. The Sheffield to Lincoln railway line now also follows your route, to your left.

E. Around 7 miles into your journey the A57 begins to move away from your trail and at 8 miles you pass
the prestigious Burton Waters marina and housing development before heading back into open fields.

F. Passing under the A46 at 9 miles you will then see Carholme Golf Club on your left, before you suddenly
enter the built up area of Lincoln City Centre

G. You have just one mile of this more urban landscape before reaching your finish point at Brayford Wharf.
You will be able to see Lincoln Cathedral and castle battlements as you enter the city.

H. As you enter the wharf you will see Lincoln University buildings on your right. Your get out is on a landing
platform on the left side of the wharf, where there are a variety of restaurants.

Discover More

The Fossdyke Navigation was first built in Roman times, making it possibly the oldest British canal. It was constructed in order to connect the River Witham to the River Trent in around 120 AD.

After the Romans left, the Fossdyke fell into disrepair until 1121, when King Henry I ordered for it to be scoured out. It often re-filled with silt until the mid-1700s, when a reliable channel was dug out and maintained. Since then, the Fossdyke has always been in use, although some parts fell into disrepair. Various groups and authorities have improved the navigation over the years, and it is now a pleasant journey into the heart of Lincoln.

The Fossdyke was originally built, in around 120 AD, by the Romans to connect the River Witham to the River Trent. This lock-free journey takes you along the entire length of the historic waterway.

While in Lincoln, it is worth visiting the historic centre. A stroll around its magnificent cathedral and cobbled, winding streets is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

Visit the following website for further information:

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.