Walkmates
Route by PaulWalkmates
Start at the public Canalside Car Park at Lower Maunsel Lock, reached from Bankland Lane near North Newton. Walk down the car park footpath to Bankland Lane, cross the canal bridge carefully and turn left onto the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal towpath and head towards Bridgwater, keeping to the same waterside path through the open fields. The Somerset Space Walk puts scale models of the planets along the canal: look for Jupiter and Saturn on the way to Kings Lock, then continue around the canal bend to Standards Lock and Fordgate Swing Bridge. Turn at Fordgate and retrace the towpath to the car park.
This is a mostly level out-and-back walk on a shared towpath, with short slopes at locks and bridges. Surfaces can be muddy or slippery after rain and the water edge is unguarded. Give cyclists and other path users room, keep dogs close by the water and take care at bridge approaches. There are no beach, tidal or cliff sections. Maunsel Lock Tea Rooms are nearby; toilets are for customers of local cafes or pubs, so check opening times and bring drinking water. Follow any temporary signs and check Canal and River Trust notices before setting out.
Route and visitor information checked against the Canal and River Trust's Maunsel Lock page and canal guide.
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A few things to know before you make plans.
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.
The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.