Canoeing on the Llangollen Canal

THE Canal & River Trust is encouraging canoeing on the Llangollen Canal, stating it is to become easier and safer thanks to a new canal guide and three new slipways created by the Trust.

Canoeists are being encouraged to use the Llangollen and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and even the tunnels on the waterway, even though it states the 11 miles stretch is one of the busiest and most popular canals in the country for boaters.

Slipways

Two new canoe slipways have been constructed at the top end of the canal close to the Horseshoe Falls at Llantysilio. These provide free access to canoeists to enter and exit the Llangollen Canal and also link into the fast-flowing and more challenging River Dee.

Further down on a canal bank opposite the Llangollen Pavilion near the town centre, a third canoe access point has been created for organised groups only.

Aqueducts and tunnels

Nicola Lewis-Smith, Enterprise Manager with the Trust, explained:

“Canoeing is growing in popularity on the Llangollen Canal and it’s great to see more people out enjoying the beautiful waterway. The 11 mile World Heritage Site takes you across two countries, along two aqueducts and through two tunnels – it would be hard to find a more interesting and spectacular journey.

“We believe these new canoe slipways will help to stop bank erosion at the busiest locations and make it easier for less experienced canoeists to enter the water.

“We have also produced a new canal canoe guide and map which offer top tips on paddling along the waterway safely. With so many boaters, walkers, anglers and canoeists all using the same space it can get a little congested at times, so we appeal to everyone to treat the environment and other people with respect.”