Hatton Flight

This flight on the Grand Union Canal, just west of Warwick, delivers 21 locks in less than two miles and provides a stern test of boater stamina. One of the most picturesque spots on the Grand Union, it has been feared and revered in equal measure since the days of the working boatmen.

The flight was widened in the 1930s as part of the grand scheme to upgrade the Grand Union Canal - look out for the distinctive paddle gear, which boaters use to operate the locks. The old narrow locks are still evident next to the newer locks.

At the new canalside cafe, owned and operated by British Waterways, you can sit and watch the boats go by. The Waterman Pub also provides a welcome opportunity for recuperation near Hatton top lock.

Full waterway amenities are available at Saltisford Canal Centre on the short Saltisford arm, at the foot of the Hatton flight. Also nearby is Hatton Country World (open daily, 01926 843411) which includes two attractions - Hatton Shopping Village and Hatton Farm Village. Hatton Shopping Village features 25 craft and gift shops, an antiques centre with 20 dealers, several wholesale outlet retailers and two restaurants. Hatton Farm Village offers a meet-and-greet with multifarious members of the animal kingdom - including some 300 guinea pigs happily installed in the new Guinea Pig Village!

Hatton Flight audio trail

An audio trail specifically for Hatton Locks has been developed with advice from local people who are blind or visually impaired and has been funded by British Waterways, the Fieldfare Trust and Heritage Lottery Fund. The audio trail guides visitors along the Hatton Flight with a lively commentary on the fascinating heritage and present day use of the canal.

The audio trail follows surfaced towpaths and has occasional resting points. Visitors can enjoy the audio trails as they walk along the towpath or take a virtual tour in the comfort of the cafe using the tactile map.

The audio tour starts at the café and takes you past a lock to an audio point and a boat on dry ground. There are 3 stopping places and the trail takes about 30 minutes to complete, including returning to the café.
Listen to the Hatton Flight audio trail
Read the Hatton Flight audio trail script

Read more about the history of Hatton Flight

Download a Guide and map to Birmingham and the West Midlands’ Canals

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