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Where is the wey and arun canal?

The canal route runs from the Godalming Navigation of the River Wey at Shalford, near Guildford in Surrey, to the River Arun at Pallingham, near Pulborough in West Sussex.



The Wey and Arun Canal is a historic waterway located in the southeast of England, stretching for approximately 23 miles (37 km) across the counties of Surrey and West Sussex. It was originally built to provide a safe, inland route for goods between London and the English Channel during the Napoleonic Wars, effectively connecting the River Wey at Shalford (near Guildford) to the River Arun at Pallingham. Often referred to as "London's Lost Route to the Sea," much of the canal fell into disrepair in the late 19th century after the advent of the railway. However, in 2026, the Wey and Arun Canal Trust has successfully restored significant portions of the waterway for public recreation. Visitors can now enjoy scenic boat trips, canoeing, and walking along the canal's towpath near Loxwood. The canal passes through stunning, tranquil English countryside, offering a glimpse into the industrial heritage of the 19th century while serving as a vital "green corridor" for local wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts.

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The countryside around the route of the Wey & Arun Canal is arguably amongst the most attractive for walking in the south of England. The Canal passes through the lovely woodland and open landscapes of Surrey and West Sussex, including areas of outstanding natural beauty.

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The 23 mile Wey and Arun Canal - comprising of the combined Arun Navigation and the Wey and Arun Junction canal - was once the national inland waterway network's only connection to the English Channel.

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However, since 1970, restoration by The Wey & Arun Canal Trust has led to several miles being restored to the standard navigable by narrowboats and small tour barges.

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Trail run along the length of the river Wey in Surrey, from Godalming to where it enters the Thames at Weybridge. This route starts at Borough Bridge in Godalming, which is slightly upstream of the start of the navigable river and is where the path starts to give a continuus route to the river Thames.

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