Walking along the Melton Mowbray Navigation
As yet, there is no footpath along the whole route of the navigation. However, the old towpath has survived as a public right of way in several places.
An enjoyable walk can be had at Syston, where the old waterway leaves the River Soar Navigation. The junction is opposite the Old Junction Boatyard, and is marked by a low-level footpath walkway - due for replacement as part of the restoration works.
Follow the footpath along the north bank of the Wreake. At a rather muddy paddock, you will pass under the dual carriageway Syston bypass. This road was built on an embankment to counter the Wreake's unfortunate tendency to flood severely in wet weather. Immediately afterwards, you enter a charming wooded section with the first of the navigation's distinctive double-arched brick bridges.
Continue along the river, passing under the sharply skewed bridge which carries the railway that eventually proved the navigation's downfall. The river continues through attractive woodland - though you will note that there are many trees between the towpath and the river. These would not have been permitted to grow during the waterway's commercial life, as they would have obstructed the horses' tow-ropes.
The walk ends at the Fosse Way, the ancient Roman Road from Bath to Lincoln. Lewin Bridge, which carried the road over the historic navigation, has been demolished and replaced with a lower-level crossing. The Gate Hangs Well inn, on the opposite side of the road, sells local ales and is a good place to rest before retracing your steps.
Other walks can be enjoyed in the Melton Mowbray area.
Walking routes
Towpath Stoppages
There are no stoppages reported at this time.
