Horse-Drawn Barge Tiverton Canal Company
Experience a tranquil journey on a horse-drawn barge along the Grand Western Canal, offering a unique step back in time and a peaceful escape into nat...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Perfect for a relaxing escape
Horse-Drawn Barge Tiverton Canal Company
Best Time
Perfect for a relaxing escape
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience a tranquil journey on a horse-drawn barge along the Grand Western Canal, offering a unique step back in time and a peaceful escape into nature.
"A truly delightful experience, a journey on a horse-drawn barge, totally immersive and regenerative. "
🎯 Book Ahead for Groups
Essential for birthdays or larger gatherings to ensure availability.
🦆 Buy Duck Food!
A highlight for many, don't miss feeding the local wildlife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Horse-Drawn Barge Journey
Tiverton Grand Western Canal
Glide peacefully through the countryside, serenaded by horse hooves and gentle water. A truly immersive step back in time.
Wildlife Spotting
Along the Canal
Keep an eye out for ducklings, moorhens, and other charming wildlife as you drift along the water.
Feeding the Ducks
Onboard the Barge
A must-do! Purchase duck food to delight the local waterfowl and swans as you cruise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Slow Travel
Prepare for a Relaxing Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead for Groups
Essential for birthdays or larger gatherings to ensure availability.
🦆 Buy Duck Food!
A highlight for many, don't miss feeding the local wildlife.
☕ Onboard Refreshments
Bar stocked with drinks and snacks, plus hot beverages.
🚶♀️ Consider Rowboat Rental
For a more active exploration of the calm canal waters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for Groups
Essential for birthdays or larger gatherings to ensure availability.
🦆 Buy Duck Food!
A highlight for many, don't miss feeding the local wildlife.
☕ Onboard Refreshments
Bar stocked with drinks and snacks, plus hot beverages.
🚶♀️ Consider Rowboat Rental
For a more active exploration of the calm canal waters.
☀️ Check the Weather
Good weather enhances wildlife viewing and overall enjoyment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tiverton Canal Company for its unique and delightful horse-drawn barge experience, often describing it as a 'step back in time' and a 'regenerative' escape. The peaceful journey through the countryside, the charm of the shire horses, and the opportunity to feed wildlife are major highlights. While the experience is overwhelmingly positive, some minor points of feedback include limited vegetarian options at the cafe and the potential for crowds during peak times.
"Wow! What a simply delightful experience! The Serenity experience provided by Tiverton Canal Co was a journey on a horse drawn barge, lasting 2.5hrs, listening to the gentle clip-clop of George, the horse’s hooves on the towpath, and the occasional birdsong. Totally immersive and regenerative. Truly a step back in time."
Susie Culhane
"7 of us went on the two and a half hour afternoon trip for our mother’s 80th birthday and we all thoroughly enjoyed every second of it.
First we had lunch at the Ducks Ditty Cafe, which was lovely although the sandwich choice for a vegetarian was somewhat limited.
On boarding the barge we were given a very comprehensive talk regarding health and safety, etc. And then Becky, the horseman, pushed us off and the gorgeous shire horse Brindley took over. We were also accompanied by the lovely Hogan, the roof running collie dog!
Phil, our captain, was very informative, entertaining and enthusiastic. We had the perfect weather for having the windows open meaning we got to see everything clearly, lovely scenery and wildlife including ducklings and moor hen chicks.
The bar is well stocked with alcoholic, non alcoholic and hot drinks as well as snacks and ice cream. Also for sale is duck food…a must have!!
We loved it all and we will be back one day….thank you to the whole team - you are great! 😊"
Lucinda Hughes
"We headed to the Tiverton Grand Western canal to celebrate a birthday. A lovely relaxing day out, the sound of the horses hooves and water parting as the boat glides through the water. A bar and toilet onboard, where you must buy a box of duck food to feed the ducks and swans as you move down the canal. A glorious day."
Sarah B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tiverton Canal Company is located along the Grand Western Canal in Tiverton. Driving is a common option, with parking available nearby. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes is advisable if you're not driving.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the canal, though it can get busy during peak times. Arriving early is recommended.
The towpath is generally accessible and offers a pleasant walking experience alongside the canal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Prices can vary, but expect to pay around £19 for a rowboat rental with a deposit, and barge trips are priced per person. It's best to check the official Tiverton Canal Company website for the most current pricing.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for group bookings or special occasions like birthdays, to guarantee your spot.
The typical horse-drawn barge experience lasts around 2.5 hours, offering a leisurely journey along the canal.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available onboard the barge for your convenience during the trip.
While specific pet policies can change, it's generally a good idea to contact the Tiverton Canal Company directly to confirm if dogs are allowed on the barge trips.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors often spot various bird species, including ducks and moorhens. Keep an eye out for ducklings in season!
You can rent rowboats for a more independent exploration of the canal's calm waters or enjoy a walk along the scenic towpath.
Absolutely! The slow pace of the horse-drawn barge and the peaceful canal environment make it ideal for a relaxing and regenerative experience.
This refers to Hogan, a friendly collie dog that sometimes accompanies the barge trips, adding to the unique charm of the experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a cafe called The Ducks Ditty, which serves lunch. The barge also has a bar stocked with drinks and snacks.
Reviews suggest that vegetarian sandwich choices might be somewhat limited, so it's worth checking their menu upon arrival or contacting them in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
Yes, duck food is available for purchase onboard the barge, and it's a highly recommended activity for visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene canal scenery, the majestic shire horse pulling the barge, and the charming wildlife. Open windows on the barge offer clear views for photos.
Yes, with the windows open, you get clear views of the surroundings, making it easy to capture memorable shots of the landscape and any wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘♀️ Couples Seeking Relaxation
🚶♂️ Active Explorers & Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Horse-Drawn Travel
The horses themselves are a significant part of the charm. Shire horses, known for their strength and gentle nature, are used to pull the barges. Travelers often express admiration for these magnificent animals, like George and Brindley, who are central to the experience. The handlers, such as Becky, are knowledgeable and passionate, ensuring the welfare of the horses and sharing insights with passengers. This connection to the animal power and the historical context adds a rich layer to the trip.
Exploring the Grand Western Canal
The towpath alongside the canal is perfect for walking and enjoying the countryside. It's a peaceful route where you can observe the local flora and fauna. The wildlife, including ducks and moorhens, adds to the natural beauty of the area. For those looking for a truly relaxing day out, the combination of gentle boating, walking, and wildlife observation makes the Tiverton Canal a delightful destination.
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