Bradford on Avon canoe loop - easy 8 mile paddle on the river Avon returning on the K & Avon canal

Inspired by a blogg that I read on a canoeing forum this is an 8 mile loop down the river Avon from Bradford on Avon to Dundas Aqueduct where a short portage takes you up to the Kennet & Avon canal and back to the starting point. It’s about 8 miles in all. A full day trip, but as always, it takes longer when making frequent stops for filming and photography. The portage up to the K&A canal is fairly steep and it takes several trips up and down especially if you’re carrying lots of gear like I was. It is possible to do longer routes on this section all the way into Bath and beyond, especially if you have suitable shuttle transport sorted.
•
Music: epidemicsound.com
Voice-over recording by David Oliver at Davidolivermusic.com
Filmed with Canon DSLRs and various GoPro Hero cameras.
Edited in FCPX

[@maryandsam2]

Andy, I absolutely love your videos, actually let's call them films, because they are! Your film of the river Wye, encouraged myself and Mary to take a holiday travelling downstream. So I need to thank you for that. Keep up the magnificent films. They are an absolute joy.

[@MrAndyballard]

That's worth hearing, good to hear people are getting inspired to get out on the water, especially in these dark times. Hoping to get across to the Wye again later in the summer. Much appreciate your comment.

[@alextimms1221]

Dear Andy and Laurie, Thank you for discussing this. As I mentioned in my post below, the video is causing all sorts of problems for us and I have tried to encourage Andy to edit the problematic section which shows Andy paddling over to the left hand side of the river as it approaches Avoncliff weir and into our private mill race (sometimes known as a leat) before then clambering over the privately owned and very precarious weir. As an analogy with our road system, we have hitherto tried to avoid using signage on this beautiful stretch of water however it is a bit like him turning left off a roadway and then into someone’s private driveway before then staring up at their house and clambering off over their neighbours wall. For the great majority of sensitive and caring canoeists this might not sound very problematic however since the video has been posted we have been inundated with hoards of river users in everything from kayaks, to stand up paddle boards shouting at each other to hear their voices over the natural noise of the falling water, picnicking in our garden, trampling on ducks nests, leaving their litter and even killing our local male swan whilst they trespass through what had been our treasured solace. Quite ruining what had been our quiet enjoyment. And really upsetting our peace. In my post above I have done my best to explain how to port yourself around the historic obstacle of the weir and back onto the river downstream of the Cross Guns where it flows under the aquaduct - and if Andy still won’t amend his video can I politely ask everyone who reads this please not to follow Andy's lead and trespass past our house - and through what had been our little bit of private heaven. Thank you.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

@@alextimms1221 It took some time finding this comment here, and whilst I don't think this is the place for such a discussion, I do think you deserved the courtesy of a reply from me. I could not comment on who owns what piece of land (I'm assuming it is you who owns some weir). That being the case, is an egress point signed, if progress on water is not possible? I assume you witnessed an individual killing a swan, and therefore have evidence for your allegations. That being the case, a criminal act may have taken place and the police should be informed. If not, then you have no place in making allegations in a public place, and should qualify such matters accordingly. Overall, one generally has access over/on water to make passage, and as such, that water is not "private" although the hinterlands and river bed maybe. In such cases, portage is provided at mills /sluices or whatever, with signed route (determined by the land owner) Having replied as a courtesy, please forgive me if I don't acknowledge further comment here.

[@iamlostinaforest]

Stumbled upon your great channel searching for information and videos on the Hou 13... and so very much enjoy your fantastic footage of stunning canoe trips in the charming UK rivers and canals. Keep up the great paddle-shooting! Summer greets from Copenhagen

[@MrAndyballard]

Thanks ! glad ya found it. The Hou 13 is a great canoe, although now after having owned it for a few years, I'd say that the 14ft model is probably a bit more practical as you can get more in it. An extra foot makes a big difference, especially if you're doing a multi day trip. But the 13 is very easy to portage and transport - I put it on a Suzuki Jimny which is small. Get one, you won't regret it! Greetings from the west of England. PS. a new video of a river Wye trip is on my channel, a very recent trip too (in the Hou 13).

[@iamlostinaforest]

​@@MrAndyballard Super glad to read on your Hou 13 experience. It sounds like - and from your videos - very much looks like - the canoe to start out with for solo tours and daytrips. Now, really hope to catch one 2nd hand next week (touch wood). If with success, will not be to get on land again. ;) Your Wye trip is ON for tonight, thank you for letting me know; and for sharing these beautiful, inspiring paddling videos. Happy Summer Thursday :)

[@libmananchannel]

Hello! Thank you for showing me a nice video! It's great shots! Very nice river view! It's great! I like it! Very interesting! Thank you for sharing! Have a nice Sunday!

[@MrAndyballard]

Thanks for watching, glad you enjoyed it, greetings to you wherever you are in the world 👍

[@cwgray63]

Magnificent! Concise and eloquent as always Andy. I'm so glad you continue making these wonderful films and more so that many people are discovering your unique way of encouraging others to contemplate the virtues of nature. In these troubled times, it's more important than ever for us all to reflect on what truely matters. As they're all saying to you mate, keep up the good work.

[@MrAndyballard]

Thanks Chris, always appreciate your supportive comments. Yes, it does seem from some of the comments that I've inspired others to get out there on the river, that's a good feeling and as good a reason to continue making these vids I guess. I'd love to do the Blackwood river one of these WA visits. When that'll happen next I've no idea sadly.

[@My24hradventure]

Hi Andy, I found your channel about a week ago. It's such a pleasure watching your videos, so peaceful. I've ordered a kayak which should arrive late Aug. I can't wait to start my ow paddling adventure. Keep up the excellent work 😊👍

[@MrAndyballard]

If I manage to imbue a modicum of peace in anyone then I consider it worthwhile to continue producing these short films, many thanks for positive comment. You won't regret getting a kayak, I guarantee you'll love it.

[@penelopehedley1514]

Brilliant video Andy, makes me feel homesick, enjoy watching your videos. They are an inspiration 👌🇬🇧

[@MrAndyballard]

Much appreciated, thank you Penelope 😉

[@mandycampbell329]

Stunning Andy yet again!! You can't bet the peace of mind a river can give you!!!👍

[@MrAndyballard]

NIce one Mandy, yep it sure is a calming influence in these strange times

[@georgebradford87]

Another incredible video Andy! Your cinematography is stunning but it's your edit style and pacing that really makes these films. Your previous Avon vids inspired me to get my own kayak and today I did the Avoncliff/Dundas loop for the first time. Hope to see you on the water sometime!

[@MrAndyballard]

Thanks George, I do make some effort with the editing and it's so good to hear that it's being noticed. Yeah I've done the BoA loop 3 times now since late April, it's grand. You can have it almost to yourself if you paddle it mid-week. Yes, be good to meet in the flesh as it were.

[@marcinpalasek4067]

Its always pleasure to watch your videos👍

[@MrAndyballard]

Good on ya Marcin, glad you enjoyed it

[@alistairellen]

What a stunning video, it so perfectly captures the atmosphere of this stretch of the river. I recently bought a canoe and had been tentatively paddling below Bradford on Avon, but this video inspired me to cross the Avoncliff weir at the weekend and explore further downstream. Having done so I am now completely hooked and can't wait to get back out again as soon as possible. I just need to refine my paddling technique to look as relaxed and effortless as yours! Looking forward to the next inspiring film!

[@MrAndyballard]

Nice one Alistair, yes the river is lovely downstream from Avoncliff. It was a bit daunting before I'd attempted to get down over it with my boat and all my gear, but it's a piece of cake really. As I said in the vid, most rowers turn back for BoA at the weir so most of the time the river is empty of other users downstream. Say hello if you spot a green Hou13 with a sticker of a disturbing man in dungarees man-handling a pig on the bow!? (My nod to Deliverance)

[@PaddlingTramp]

Perfect video!

[@MrAndyballard]

It means a lot to get a comment like that in these bleak times, thanks.

[@Alpacadave66]

nice one Andy. very chilled and refreshing. another winner. makes me want to be there.

[@MrAndyballard]

Churs Dave, liquid medicine for the soul

[@martinoutdoors6941]

How lovely, that water looked so clear.

[@MrAndyballard]

Hi Martin, yes the water is pretty clear this time of year. In some sections the water lilys were amazing - visible just below the surface

[@Taromovies]

Hey Andy, another very relaxing and informative video, thanks for sharing, take care, Taro

[@MrAndyballard]

Thanks Taro, hope you're having fun in the Hou on those lovely looking Swiss lakes

[@jawa134]

A lovely film. I’ve paddled the river to the weir below Bradford but not below that. Nice to see it. I agree with you - much nicer on river than canal.

[@MrAndyballard]

Cheers, it doesn't take much to get a boat over the weir really, and the great thing about that is that you then have the river largely to yourself 👍

[@Wessexmud]

I think I will give that route a go-thank you -Also subbed! ✨✨✨✨✨

[@MrAndyballard]

It's a peaceful cracking paddle... 👌

[@jdo1014]

What a coincidence, I was planning an exact reverse trip, start & finish at Dundas. Looking at cutting over to to the Avon just before the Lock Inn? Yes, I had considered that the final hump of the sit-on back up to the car would be steep!

[@MrAndyballard]

Ah I see... start at Dundas on the K&A, then up to BoA and downstream on the Avon? Nice, that way you'll have the current with you on the second leg of the trip. Watch out at Avoncliff weir, there are sandbags across it for repairs. I did the trip again about a week ago and there were also signs on it warning to ‘keep off’ etc etc.

[@kevintwine8443]

Brilliant

[@MrAndyballard]

NIce one Kevin, enjoy your paddle! maybe catch ya on the river one day...

[@kevintwine8443]

@@MrAndyballard yea hopefully 👍😀

[@kevintwine8443]

@@MrAndyballard ps subbed

[@MrAndyballard]

@@kevintwine8443 much appreciated Kevin 👍

[@robertgordon5150]

Lazy Saturday morning, a cup of coffee and a new Andy Ballard film to watch. Bliss. Great to read other comments that people have purchased canoes/kayaks off the back of these vids. That must be a good feeling and a nod from us all to show your uploads are appreciated. Quick question on that trip if I may? Roughly how long are you on the river section of that route? Bradford on Avon is just under 2 hours away from me so definitely a trip on my radar.

[@MrAndyballard]

Much appreciated comment Robert, positive comments like yours make it all worthwhile. If I can just inspire one person to get out on the water, then I've done my job I reckon. The river section is approx 4 miles from BoA to Dundas, then obviously 4 miles on the canal back to BoA. It is possible to do a longer route, either down to Warleigh weir/Claverton then back up to the canal or further downstream to Bathampton & beyond. This did take a full day as I was filming a lot (and this always takes some considerable time faffing around with cameras). If you can jack up shuttle transport at one end you could extend the trip considerably (all the way to Bristol).

[@crashmediauk8471]

Great video Andy, I live near Bradford On Avon and have just bought a paddle board so can't wait to try this 8 mile loop.

[@MrAndyballard]

Cheers. It's a beautiful stretch of river alright, very scenic, I paddled a stretch of the Avon at Saltford the other week but it wasn't as pretty as this loop. Watch out for getting grief at Avoncliff Weir, there are ongoing portage issues.

[@oozycactus7525]

Hey Andy, Your video production is fantastic! If you enjoyed the Wye I recommend the River Usk. A real welsh classic Little bit more technical in some places though. Further a field, the River Spey (Loch Insh to Spey Bay) is also a Canoe campers classic 4 day paddle. Good efforts!

[@MrAndyballard]

Thanks Jack, always good to get positive comments from fellow paddlers. Yes, I've looked at the River Usk on google earth, it's probably less commercial than the Wye too? What would be a good put in spot on the Usk? I tend to gravitate towards less well used rivers, my local is the Yeo, and I hardly see anyone on it once away from the village of Congresbury.

[@FurrychalkbagOutdoors]

Lovely video that fella. A total pleasure to watch👏 Nice tracking shot across the bow of your boat at 1:43..!! Would love to know how you got that one🧐🤷‍♂️ Keep up the good work and happy paddling🙂

[@MrAndyballard]

Ah, glad you enjoyed it... the tracking shot? I'm pretty sure that I mounted a GoPro on a suction mount to my mate's canoe (stern) and faced it backwards towards me, it's quite effective and I'm glad you noticed it.

[@alantaylor688]

Great video Andy, thanks for sharing. Did the same trip but starting along the canal in October... the wiers were interesting with some flow over them!.

[@MrAndyballard]

Up the canal presumably? & down the river....? I can't imagine paddling against the current would be much fun, although some do! Yes, that weir at Avoncliff gets a bit lively I've heard.

[@alantaylor688]

@@MrAndyballard Yep, up the canal and down teh river. There is a central part of the Avoncliff wier that had a smooth is route down (showed on your film) but did have some bailing to do after!

[@costas_karpi]

nice one :)

[@MrAndyballard]

Cheers Costas!👍

[@pdfp24]

Lovely video thanks Andy. Do you know if the Avoncliff weir is still passable? I read online about one of the local residents being a bit……difficult? I’ve just started paddling and rowed from BOA to the weir today but wasn’t sure what the deal was so I turned back.

[@MrAndyballard]

I haven't paddled the Avon in a while... BUT the river has to be at a fairly low level making the weir passable. YES, there are some issues with a certain resident being very ‘difficult’, in fact he commented on this video and made a nuisance of himself. In the end the police were involved as he accused me of killing a swan (yes really). It's possible, but be aware it CAN be troublesome. There is a portage path on the left before the weir. Its a steep path and very windy and you wouldn't want to be carrying a large canoe either as the switchbacks are tight.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

I can't add anything to what's been said.....you, a camera and a canoe are a lovely mix

[@MrAndyballard]

Good to get a positive comment Laurie, cheers for that. It's rather ‘kicked off’ on this little stretch of serene river of late. Some bloke who lives next to the weir has taken offence to me (and others) going down the weir at Avoncliff. It got rather nasty... he accused me of murdering a swan! I kid you not! Absolutely unhinged. You'll see he's left a rather unpleasant comment below.

[@lauriebloggs8391]

@@MrAndyballard If it's Mr Timms? an interesting if somewhat rambling comment? Might be interesting to refer the access /egress comments to BC access officer for the area? Interestingly, if the water way is through, ie not a pond or some cul de sac, almost invariably, one has a right of passage as long as not touching ground anywhere. As such a landlord does not "own" the water per se. If such passage through is not viable, alternative land passage should (I believe.."must"?) be provided (the route determined by the landlord) Unless "our" is referring to that passage, what IS being referred to? Still a stunning film...come canoeing in the east of england!!

[@MrAndyballard]

@@lauriebloggs8391 Oh yes it is. This access issue to water is beginning to grind me down I have to say. In the US, Aust and many parts of Europe (as well as Scotland of course) access and navigation on rivers is a given. It's just the greedy, self centred attitude of ‘old England’ that seeks to exclude others from our birthright, this land belongs to all of us. Did you know that 97% of rivers and other waterways are off limits to canoeists and other paddlers and wild swimmers in the UK? 97%! That leaves 3% that we can paddle uncontested, unbelievable. As you touch on, the idea that someone can ‘own’ the water on a river is preposterous, absolutely absurd. Apparently in law, the landowners each side of a river can own an invisible part of the river until it meets the ‘centre’ then the ‘ownership’ passes to the landowner on the other side. Yes, I need to paddle elsewhere... thanks for the invite.

[@randoneur]

Nice one. I'll look at doing this route very soon. Is there parking at the Tythe barn, and do you need to contact someone and pay? I've done the K&A, Reading to Bristol 4 times, and often stopped at the Dundas Aqueduct and walked down to look longingly at the river. On each occasion it's just been too much of an effort to take a fully camping laden boat down that way.

[@MrAndyballard]

Yes, easy parking right by the barn - £6.30 all day. I usually get there early to avoid the crowds. Ticket machine easy. I prefer the river to the canal, hands down no contest, once past the Avoncliff weir it's rare to see other paddlers, maybe the odd SUP boarder but that's it. Absolutely beautiful paddle, one of my favourites.

[@randoneur]

@@MrAndyballard Thanks.

[@billybud8178]

Spam & valium? not at the same time hopefully 🤪

[@MrAndyballard]

Yeah.. it's ace, not tried it?

[@davelynoutdoors6654]

Lovely paddle Andy, thanks for taking us along. What length is your canoe? Thanks Dave

[@MrAndyballard]

You're welcome David. Ooh err there's an actress and a bishop gag in there... 13ft. Just right for a solo trip I find.

[@davelynoutdoors6654]

I only ask that Andy, as I bought an Old Town guide 147 and disappointingly I couldn’t handle it by myself. So I thought maybe 12tft? was the way to go, solo.

[@MrAndyballard]

@@davelynoutdoors6654 yeah, anything more than 16ft can be unweildy, 12-13ft is ideal for a solo paddler

[@gavingreenhow730]

Hi there, have you paddled up stream from Bradford on the River Avon? I'm just wondering if you know which sections can be canoed? Can you go from Lacock to Melksham, for example? (If there is enough water in the river?) Thanks, Gavin.

[@MrAndyballard]

Hi Gavin, yes you can paddle from Lacock to BoA. There's a vid here on my channel ‘Wiltshire meander - Lacock to BoA’. There were a few trees across the river when we paddled it, it was fairly choked with weed too (but that was in July in high summer). It's a really peaceful stretch of river, we didn't see many people at all. Melksham was busy getting over the big weir... it's all in the video.

[@gavingreenhow730]

@@MrAndyballard Hi Andy, thanks for the speedy reply. Yes, I found that video shortly after making my comment (naturally!). I think you say in the video that there are 3 weirs to negotiate in that Lacock-Bradford section (12 miles). I got the impression from the video that the way you did it was to climb down over them, rather than do a detour on land around them - is that right? Also, is there a difficult landowner for one of them? If so, which one?

[@MrAndyballard]

@@gavingreenhow730 You're welcome Gavin, always a pleasure to share info with fellow paddlers. Yes, that's right, there are 3 weirs to get over in the Lacock to BoA section (heading downstream). The Melksham weir is the biggest, we got out upstream (river left) and carried our boats over the fence into the park. It was a bit tricky as there were lots of nettles in July. The in point past the park back into the river is easy. The next weir by the biscuit factory is interesting... take the small channel to the left and get out by a huge chestnut tree - previous paddlers have cut a swathe through the undergrowth back to the main channel, it's steep but doable. The last weir above BoA is steep, we exited the river at the far end (by the railway bridge) and in low levels it's easy to carry your boat down over. However, it's not so easy when the river is high and flowing fast over the weir, you could end up in trouble as it's very slippery.Take care. Not sure about landowners, we had a grumpy fisherman at the biscuit weir saying it was private land, maybe that's the troublesome part. Best policy is to ignore em.

[@gavingreenhow730]

@@MrAndyballard Thanks, that is very useful information. Sorry, one more question: have you ever canoed between Chippenham and Lacock? Parts of the river that are visible from the restored section of the Wilts and Berks Canal between Reybridge and Pewsham look wide enough to be canoable.

[@MrAndyballard]

@@gavingreenhow730 no sorry, haven't paddled any of that section. Me mate used to live in lacock so thats why we did down to BoA.

[@forzasquality210]

What canoe do you use?

[@MrAndyballard]

Hou 13'ft solo boat, English made, lovely little craft 👌