Batchworth Lock Canal
1 / 10

Batchworth Lock Canal Centre

4.6
·264 reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming waterside haven offering peaceful canal boat trips, a delightful cafe, and a shop, perfect for a relaxing escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Batchworth Lock Canal

Batchworth Lock Canal Centre

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming waterside haven offering peaceful canal boat trips, a delightful cafe, and a shop, perfect for a relaxing escape.

4.6
(264 reviews)

"A truly relaxing and affordable experience, a hidden gem by the canal!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Boat Trips Ahead

Secure your spot on the popular canal trips by booking in advance, especially on weekends.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The canal path can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canal Boat Trips

Canal Boat Trips

Batchworth Lock

Enjoy a peaceful 40-45 minute boat ride along the Grand Union Canal, a truly relaxing experience.

Waterside Cafe & Shop

Waterside Cafe & Shop

Canal Centre

Grab ice cream, gifts, or enjoy a coffee with a beautiful riverside view.

Aquadrome Lakes Walk

Aquadrome Lakes Walk

Adjacent to Canal Centre

Explore the nearby lakes, feed the waterfowl, and enjoy a leisurely stroll.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Canal Trip in Advance

While walk-ins are possible, booking your canal trip, especially during peak season or weekends, is recommended to secure your spot. The boat tours are popular and offer a relaxing escape.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking is available nearby, often at Tesco, with a short walk to the centre. The canal path can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is advised for exploring the area.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (July/August)
Why
Warm weather for boat trips
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Carols by Batchworth Lock #rickmansworth #batchworthcanalcentre #batchworth #pennysarmy
@alleywayking
166 likes • 3K views

🎯 Book Boat Trips Ahead

Secure your spot on the popular canal trips by booking in advance, especially on weekends. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The canal path can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring. Reddit

Morris Dancers performing as part of Ricky Folk Festival today at Batchworth Lock #boating #boatlife #narrowboats #canaltrips #birding
@rickywaterways
2 likes • 229 views
Do you remember this little piece of local history? The Little Union Canal which was constructed at Batchworth Lock in 2005, now replaced by the new Education Centre. #boating #boat_life #narrow_boats #canal _trips #heritage #memories #history #historic
rickmansworthwaterwaystrust
5 likes • 143 views

☕ Cafe@81 Views

Enjoy coffee and snacks at Cafe@81 with lovely canal-side seating. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures

Bring your furry friends! Dogs are welcome and seem to enjoy the canal trips too. Instagram

Ahoy! I would like to inform everyone that as of today I’m Spock the Pirate Dog! What a great adventure with @rickmansworthwaterwaystrust 😍 I highly recommend this: 10/10 ⭐️🏴‍☠️ @colnevalleyregionalpark #rickmasworth #batchworthlockcanaltrips #batchworthlockcanalcentre #pirate #GreyDayExploration #SpockTheDog #happydog #rescue #bernesehound #swisshound #gonczybernenski #bernerlaufhund #spock #...
mr_spock_the_dog
469 likes • 1.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Boat Trips Ahead

Secure your spot on the popular canal trips by booking in advance, especially on weekends. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The canal path can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for exploring. Reddit

☕ Cafe@81 Views

Enjoy coffee and snacks at Cafe@81 with lovely canal-side seating. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Adventures

Bring your furry friends! Dogs are welcome and seem to enjoy the canal trips too. Instagram

💰 Great Value Trips

Canal trips are reasonably priced, starting from £6 per person. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(264 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Batchworth Lock Canal Centre for its relaxing canal boat trips, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful waterside setting. The affordable prices and the opportunity to explore nearby lakes make it a great value day out for families and dog owners alike. Some minor points of improvement could include clearer signage for parking and more varied food options.

"Nice place near pinner and rickmansworth. Boating option available from 6 pound onwards and 15 for family. Since it is july and heatwave is ON, it was noce experience to hop on the boat and traverse in the water canal. There is a nice cafe called cafe@81 which provides food options as well. We also have the boat shop, which has lot of souvenirs, hats, ice creams, etc. Overall very nice place near to rock"

Rohit Ranjan

"We took our Grandchildren here this afternoon and enjoyed a short Canal Trip. The people were lovely and the trip took around 40 minutes. We then went for a walk around the Lakes and fed the various water birds, Swans,Canada Geese, Cootes and Gulls. We all had a lovely time, its well worth a visit and very reasonable prices. See photos. Highly recommended."

Paul Hellyer

"We were travelling home from Milton Keynes to Dover, and wanted to avoid motorways. I noted in advance that this canal centre would be a good stop for coffee. We enjoy canal locations and coffee.
We parked at Tesco car park, 5 mins walk away, and after buying some drink, crisps and sweets to 'legitimise' our parking, we walked the short distance to the canal. Apart from the canal centre shop and museum, there is a small food and drink outlet. Outside seating only by the edge of the canal. Five star food/health rating. We ordered two coffees, sat and watched the canal side activity. Schoolchildren being given a short ride, a poodle, obviously very excited, but under control, cyclist and runners using the canal path, and canal boats.
After coffee we took a 20 minute walk along the uneven path alongside which were mostly unkempt canal barges, which in themselves were interesting to look at. The owners we spoke to were friendly, and living their lives."

Colin Nedneve

What People Like

Relaxing canal boat trips
Friendly staff and atmosphere
Affordable prices

What People Dislike

Uneven canal path
Limited food variety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The centre is easily accessible by car. Parking is often available at the nearby Tesco car park, followed by a short walk. Public transport options may involve local bus routes to Rickmansworth. Reddit

Yes, visitors often park at the Tesco car park, which is a 5-minute walk away. It's advisable to make a small purchase to 'legitimise' your parking. Reddit

The Grand Union Canal towpath is popular with cyclists, offering a scenic route to the canal centre. Reddit

Rickmansworth Station is the closest train station, from which you can take a bus or taxi to reach the canal centre.

It's located by the Grand Union Canal, River Colne, and Aquadrome Lakes, making it a picturesque and relatively easy-to-locate spot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Boat trips are very reasonably priced, with individual tickets around £6 and family tickets available for around £15. Reddit

While not always essential, booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekends or during peak times, to guarantee your spot. Reddit

The canal centre, including the shop and cafe, generally operates during daylight hours. Boat trip schedules vary, so it's best to check their specific timings. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to visit the Batchworth Lock Canal Centre itself or to walk along the canal path. Fees apply only for the boat trips. Reddit

Yes, you can often purchase tickets on the day, but it's wise to call ahead or check their schedule if you have a specific time in mind. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The boat trips typically last around 40-45 minutes, offering a relaxing journey along the canal. Reddit+1

You can enjoy a walk around the adjacent Aquadrome Lakes, feed the waterfowl, visit the small shop for souvenirs and ice cream, and relax at the waterside cafe. Reddit

Yes, dogs are welcome at Batchworth Lock and can even join you on the canal boat trips. Instagram

Yes, there is outdoor seating available by the canal, perfect for enjoying a drink or snack while watching the boats. Reddit

You can spot various water birds like swans, Canada geese, and coots, as well as canal boats and other canal-side activity. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a small food and drink outlet, and a cafe called Cafe@81 nearby, offering food options, drinks, crisps, and sweets. Reddit

Absolutely! The shop at the canal centre sells ice cream, along with other souvenirs and gifts. Reddit

The cafe offers standard cafe fare; it's best to inquire directly about specific dietary options. Reddit

While there are cafes and shops, visitors can likely bring their own picnics to enjoy by the canal, especially with the available outdoor seating. Reddit

The food and health rating for the outlet is generally good, and reviews suggest a pleasant experience for coffee and snacks. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture picturesque shots of canal boats, the lock mechanism, the surrounding waterways, and the Aquadrome Lakes. The reflections on the water can be stunning. Instagram

Drone usage may be restricted in areas with public access and near waterways. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the tranquil canal atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, the Aquadrome Lakes are home to various waterfowl, offering great opportunities for wildlife photography. Reddit

The areas around the lock itself, the bridges, and the waterside seating at the cafe offer excellent vantage points for capturing the essence of the canal centre. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Batchworth Lock Canal Centre is a wonderful spot for families looking for a relaxed and engaging day out. The canal boat trips are a definite highlight, offering a gentle adventure that children usually find fascinating. The 40-45 minute duration is perfect for shorter attention spans, and the affordable family ticket prices make it budget-friendly. Reddit

Beyond the boat rides, the nearby Aquadrome Lakes provide opportunities for kids to explore and feed the ducks and swans, adding another layer of fun. The on-site shop with its ice cream and souvenirs is also a hit with younger visitors. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as the canal path can be a bit uneven for little legs. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

If you're a dog owner, Batchworth Lock Canal Centre is a must-visit. It's a highly dog-friendly location, with your canine companions welcome to join you on the canal boat trips. This makes it a perfect outing where you don't have to leave your furry best friend at home. Instagram

There's plenty of space to walk your dog along the canal path and around the Aquadrome Lakes. Just ensure your dog is on a lead where necessary and always under control, especially near the water. The relaxed atmosphere means dogs can truly enjoy the outing with their owners. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful retreat, Batchworth Lock offers a tranquil escape. The leisurely canal boat trips provide a serene experience, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the gentle rhythm of the waterways. Reddit

Enjoy a quiet coffee at Cafe@81 with a view of the canal, or take a peaceful stroll around the Aquadrome Lakes. It’s an ideal destination for a relaxing afternoon, offering beautiful scenery and a chance to decompress. The affordability of the boat trips also makes it an accessible outing for individuals and couples. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Canal Boat Trips

The canal boat trips are the main draw at Batchworth Lock Canal Centre. These leisurely journeys offer a unique perspective of the Grand Union Canal, gliding past picturesque scenery and the historic lock system. Visitors consistently praise the peaceful and relaxing nature of these trips, which typically last around 40-45 minutes. It's an ideal way to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of daily life. Reddit+1

Many reviewers highlight the excellent value for money, with affordable prices for both individuals and families. The experience is often described as a 'secret gem' and a 'fantastic afternoon.' The slow pace allows you to truly soak in the surroundings, making it a memorable part of any visit. Reddit

While booking in advance is recommended, especially for weekend excursions, the trips are frequent enough that spontaneous visits can also be rewarding. The friendly crew, like Chris mentioned in one review, contribute to the welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a delightful experience for all passengers. Reddit

Exploring the Waterside Amenities

Beyond the boat trips, Batchworth Lock Canal Centre offers a delightful array of waterside amenities. The on-site shop is a charming spot to pick up souvenirs, local goods, hats, and of course, ice cream – a perfect treat on a warm day. Reddit

Adjacent to the centre, Cafe@81 provides a lovely setting for refreshments. With outdoor seating right by the canal, you can enjoy coffee, snacks, and light meals while watching the canal boats and the general activity along the waterway. The cafe boasts a good food hygiene rating, adding to the appeal. Reddit

For those who enjoy a bit of nature, the Aquadrome Lakes are just a stone's throw away. These lakes offer a pleasant environment for a walk, where you can often feed the various water birds like swans, geese, and coots. It’s a perfect complement to the canal experience, offering a chance to connect with nature. Reddit

A Dog-Friendly Destination

Batchworth Lock Canal Centre is a fantastic destination for dog owners. The relaxed atmosphere and open spaces make it an enjoyable outing for your canine companions. Dogs are not only welcome to explore the grounds but can also join you on the canal boat trips, much to the delight of many visitors. Instagram

One TikTok video even features a dog dressed as a pirate, highlighting the fun and adventurous spirit that can be embraced here. This dog-friendly policy means you don't have to leave your furry friend behind when planning a day out. Instagram

Remember to keep your dog under control, especially near the water and other visitors, and be mindful of the canal path's uneven terrain. Overall, it's a place where both humans and their four-legged friends can have a wonderful time. Instagram

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