The canal, built between 1793 and 1816, runs 25½ miles in total, comprising of two sections.

The southern section starts at the River Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire, and stretches north as far as Kingswood Junction near Lapworth, Warwickshire where it is connected to the Grand Union Canal by a short spur.

Along the route of the canal, there are 55 locks, most concentrated upon a length between Hockley Heath and Stratford-upon-Avon.

The canal is approximately 25 miles long, wandering through the Warwickshire countryside, with a collection of interesting bridges and aqueducts.

What better way to do some gentle exploration of the area to the north of Stratford and only a short walk to see Mary Arden’s House (Shakespeare’s Mother home) at Wilmcote.