Canal Foot via the Ropewalk

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Ulverston Canal (Photo © Paddy Dillon) has the reputation of being the shortest (at 2km) and straightest canal in Britain and links the town to the sea at the Leven Estuary.

This route keeps off busy roads as much as possible and takes you via Stan Laurel’s and Sir John Barrow’s birthplaces. It then goes via The Ropewalk, with displays on how ropes were once made there, and the strange rolling railway bridge over the canal before reaching the towpath to Canal Foot. Here there are lovely views over the estuary and refreshments are available at the Bay Horse Inn. Return is via the towpath and a short section on the A590.

Start/Finish:  Brewery Street Car Park
Distance: 4.4 miles (7.1 km)
Ascent: 50 ft.  (15m)
Difficulty: Easy (nearly all flat)
Accessibility: Complete (but some narrow footpaths and a short gravel section)