Hatton Locks Warwickshire
A stunning flight of 21 locks on the Grand Union Canal, offering scenic walks, canal boat watching, and charming pub and cafe experiences.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Hatton Locks Warwickshire
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning flight of 21 locks on the Grand Union Canal, offering scenic walks, canal boat watching, and charming pub and cafe experiences.
"A beautiful scenic area with lots to see, great walks, and a fascinating heritage site."
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Bring your furry friends! Hatton Locks offers lovely towpath walks perfect for dogs. :dog:
☕ Cafe Delights
The cafe at Hatton Locks is reasonably priced with good choices. Great for a coffee break! :coffee:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Union Canal Locks
The 2-mile stretch of the Grand Union Canal
Witness the 'Stairway to Heaven' – a breathtaking flight of 21 locks climbing through the countryside.
The Hatton Arms Pub
Overlooking the locks
Enjoy classic ales and fresh British food with stunning views of the canal and locks.
Canal Towpath Walks
Along the Grand Union Canal
Scenic strolls offering peaceful towpaths, gliding boats, and open countryside views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Bring your furry friends! Hatton Locks offers lovely towpath walks perfect for dogs. :dog:
☕ Cafe Delights
The cafe at Hatton Locks is reasonably priced with good choices. Great for a coffee break! :coffee:
🚗 Free Parking Tip
Park for free at The Hatton Arms pub if you're enjoying their food or drinks. :car:
🦆 Duck Feeding Fun
A simple joy for families: bring some duck food for the canal residents. :duck:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Bring your furry friends! Hatton Locks offers lovely towpath walks perfect for dogs. :dog:
☕ Cafe Delights
The cafe at Hatton Locks is reasonably priced with good choices. Great for a coffee break! :coffee:
🚗 Free Parking Tip
Park for free at The Hatton Arms pub if you're enjoying their food or drinks. :car:
🦆 Duck Feeding Fun
A simple joy for families: bring some duck food for the canal residents. :duck:
💬 Chat with Boat Owners
Canal boat drivers are often happy to chat and share insights about the locks. :speech_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Hatton Locks for its scenic beauty, fascinating lock system, and pleasant canal walks. It's considered a great spot for families and dog owners, offering a peaceful escape with convenient amenities like a cafe and a pub with views. Some note the limited public toilets and the need for parking fees.
"Beautiful scenic area with lots to see . Lots of locks and canal boats travelling up and down . Great walks along the tow paths and dog friendly. Has a nice little cafe which i recommend that is reasonably priced and has plenty of choice for everyone."
jo Bowden
"We visited Hatton Locks in Warwickshire on Saturday afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed it. Hatton Locks is a very Interesting, scenic heritage site. It has a pay and display car park. The views are wonderful with a train track near by. We were all happy as we could hear/see trains, nature and water.
I find locks and canals fascinating and the path runs alongside the canal and locks.
There is a small cafe and toilet but we arrived later afternoon and it was closing.
I am surprised that there wasn't a public convenience as it's a heritage, scenic site with a pay and display car park.
However, there is the Hatton Arms up the hill which has plenty of outdoor seating, overlooking the views.
The pub serves a good coffee, refreshments, food and they have toilets. We stopped here for a coffee etc and chilled outdoors."
louise rose
"Beautiful historical landscape rich in opportunities for long or short walks, nature watching, photography and many other pursuits. Great location for a picnic or to pass an entire day exploring."
Daniel Mounter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hatton Locks is located in Warwickshire, easily accessible by car. There's a pay and display car park on site. For those traveling by public transport, you can reach nearby towns like Warwick and then take a taxi or local bus service. Some visitors suggest it as a stopover point when driving between London and the Lake District.
Yes, there is a pay and display car park available at Hatton Locks. Alternatively, if you plan to visit The Hatton Arms pub, you can often park there for free.
Yes, Hatton Locks is a popular destination for walks. You can enjoy scenic strolls along the towpaths of the Grand Union Canal, with routes ranging from short ambles to longer excursions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hatton Locks itself is a heritage site and generally free to visit and explore. However, there is a charge for parking in the designated car park.
As an outdoor heritage site and waterway, Hatton Locks doesn't have strict opening hours. However, facilities like the cafe and pub will have their own operating times. It's best to check these in advance if you plan to use them.
No, you do not need to book tickets to visit Hatton Locks. It's an open public space. Booking might be necessary for specific events or if you plan to dine at The Hatton Arms.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can watch boats navigate the impressive flight of 21 locks, enjoy walks along the Grand Union Canal towpaths, visit the cafe, or relax at The Hatton Arms pub. It's also a great spot for nature watching and photography.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy watching the boats, feeding ducks, and taking gentle walks. The cafe offers kid-friendly options, and the open space is great for children to explore.
Occasionally, the Canal & River Trust holds open days where you can walk on the bottom of a drained lock and learn about maintenance. Keep an eye on their schedule for such opportunities.
Public toilet facilities can be limited, especially later in the day. It's advisable to use the facilities at The Hatton Arms pub if needed.
Yes, Hatton Locks is very dog-friendly. The towpaths along the canal are ideal for walking your dog, and many visitors bring their pets along.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hatton Arms pub, located uphill from the locks, offers a contemporary dining experience with classic cask ales and fresh British food. There's also a cafe on-site for lighter bites and refreshments. 
The Hatton Arms serves a range of classic cask ales and fresh British cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced dishes. They also offer coffee and refreshments.
The cafe at Hatton Locks is described as reasonably priced, offering a good variety of choices for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The flight of 21 locks, canal boats in motion, the surrounding countryside, and the historic canal architecture all make for excellent photographic subjects. Drone photography can also capture stunning aerial views.
Yes, drone photography is popular at Hatton Locks, offering unique perspectives of the lock system and the Warwickshire landscape. Ensure you follow all drone regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The towpath walks are generally flat and easy, suitable for little legs or pushchairs. The cafe offers a good range of options, and the pub provides a more extensive menu if you're looking for a meal. It's a great place to spend a few hours learning about waterways and enjoying the outdoors.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity for nature watching and photography. The area provides a peaceful environment to observe local flora and fauna. Consider packing a picnic to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog under control, especially around the water and other visitors. The cafe and pub are generally welcoming to well-behaved dogs, but it's always good to check their specific policies.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Hatton Locks
+1The locks are managed by the Canal & River Trust, and during open days, visitors have had the unique opportunity to walk on the bottom of a drained lock, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the scale and complexity of the repairs and maintenance involved. This offers a rare glimpse into the hidden world of waterway conservation.
For those interested in the history and mechanics, the locks provide a fascinating educational experience. The volunteers and staff often present are knowledgeable and happy to share details about the operation and history of this vital waterway.
Exploring the Grand Union Canal Towpaths
+1As you wander, you'll experience the peaceful ambiance of the canal, with narrowboats gliding by and the gentle sounds of nature. The views are often described as picturesque, with open fields and the charming canal scenery providing a constant backdrop. It’s an ideal setting for a picnic or simply to unwind and enjoy the tranquility.
Many visitors find these walks incredibly therapeutic. The combination of fresh air, gentle exercise, and the calming presence of the water creates a restorative experience. It’s a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the natural environment.
Dining and Refreshments at Hatton Locks
+1Adjacent to the locks, you'll also find a charming cafe. This spot is ideal for a coffee break, a light snack, or a more affordable meal. Reviewers often praise its reasonable prices and the variety of choices available, making it a convenient stop for walkers and families alike.
Both the pub and the cafe are frequently mentioned as key amenities that enhance the visitor experience, providing comfort and convenience amidst the scenic beauty of the locks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit