Attractions and Places To See around Southwick - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Southwick include historical canal structures and scenic cycle routes. This region is characterized by its waterways, particularly the Kennet & Avon Canal, which features notable aqueducts and towpaths. Visitors can explore a landscape shaped by 18th-century engineering and natural beauty, offering opportunities for cycling and walking. The area provides a blend of historical significance and outdoor recreation.
Best attractions and places to see around Southwick
- The most popular attractions is The Two Tunnels Greenway, a cycle_way that runs through two former railroad tunnels. Riding through these tunnels is a unique experience, with music sometimes playing inside.
- Another must-see spot is Avoncliff Aqueduct, a man_made_monument. This historic aqueduct carries the Kennet and Avon Canal over the River Avon and is considered an impressive feat of engineering.
- Visitors also love Dundas Aqueduct, a bridge that carries the Kennet & Avon canal over the River Avon and a railway. Opened in 1805, it was designed by John Rennie and is a Grade I listed building.
- Southwick is known for its historical aqueducts, scenic cycle paths, and canal towpaths. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from engineered waterways to natural routes.
- The attractions around Southwick are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 80 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Dundas Aqueduct
Highlight • Bridge
The tow path between Bradford on Avon and Bath runs along the south side. To the north you can also cross the aqueduct to access the trails up through the woods to Conkwell or north along the river.
There is often a boat that sells ice cream and cold drinks, or you can leave the canal and follow the signed trail to the Angel Fish cafe where there are toilets.
You can often fill water from the boaters tap by the building and crane at the far side of the marina.
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The Two Tunnels Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Two Tunnels Greenway
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Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath — Dundas Aqueduct to Avoncliff
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Avoncliff Aqueduct
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Tips from the Community
As most English canalpaths, it's too narrow for my liking. However I don't think there's a better alternative so I stuck with it.
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Very beautiful and pleasant
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Steep Steps down to the river and for view of the aqueduct are on the Bradford on Avon side.
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the point at which the Kennet and Avon canal crossed the river and railway line via the Aqueduct built by John Rennie & John Thomas between 1797 and 1801. Good pub here which will reopen summer 2025. This is on the main railway line now becoming a regular (request?) stop since 2011
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From Bath to here on a road bike with 25mm is doable but take it easy, further on, its a little rougher and 35mm would be better. here is a good stop of lunch or a drink
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Amazing for autumn colours
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I did this ride yesterday. It was deliciously cool on a hot day, and condensation drips do fall from the ceiling, but no problem for us. Both tunnels were lit tho pedestrians were tricky to spot and a bell was useful. We enjoyed the soundscape. I was pleased to have a light so I was visible to those cycling the other way. We encountered a group with a wheelchair user and it was tricky to spot her for those with no lights. A great place to bring kids for an adventure.
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The tunnel lights were designed so you can see while not disturbing the bats. People using bright lights risk disturbing the bats and blinding other users. While you may feel using lights improves your ability to see and be seen they distract other users making it more difficult to see walkers, dogs etc.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique attractions to explore around Southwick?
Southwick is renowned for its historical canal structures and scenic routes. You can experience the unique The Two Tunnels Greenway, a cycle path running through former railroad tunnels, or marvel at the engineering of the Avoncliff Aqueduct and Dundas Aqueduct, which carry the Kennet & Avon Canal over rivers and railways.
Are there family-friendly activities around Southwick?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Two Tunnels Greenway is a popular cycle route that children often enjoy, especially with the music sometimes playing inside the tunnels. The aqueducts, like Avoncliff Aqueduct and Dundas Aqueduct, offer interesting historical sights and pleasant walks along the towpath for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Southwick is perfect for various outdoor activities, especially cycling and walking. You can explore the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath, which offers miles of scenic routes. For more specific adventures, consider gravel biking, easy hikes, or mountain biking. You can find detailed routes and guides for these activities, such as gravel biking around Southwick, easy hikes around Southwick, and MTB trails around Southwick.
Where can I find easy walks near Southwick?
For easy walks, the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath is an excellent choice, offering flat, well-maintained paths. Specific easy routes include the Southwick Country Park loop, Tellisford Mill loop, and the Iford Bridge – Farleigh Hungerford Castle loop. More options are available in the easy hikes around Southwick guide.
What historical sites can I visit in the Southwick area?
The region is rich in history, particularly related to its waterways. The Dundas Aqueduct, opened in 1805 and designed by John Rennie, is a Grade I listed building and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The Avoncliff Aqueduct, completed in 1801, is another impressive feat of 18th-century engineering. Additionally, the nearby Bradford on Avon Town Centre and Historic Bridge offers a glimpse into a historic town with Roman origins.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Southwick?
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique experience of cycling through The Two Tunnels Greenway, noting its chilly atmosphere in summer and occasional music. The impressive engineering and scenic views of the Dundas Aqueduct and Avoncliff Aqueduct are also highly appreciated, often described as beautiful sections of the canal path.
Are there cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, the area caters to various cycling abilities. The Two Tunnels Greenway is an off-road route suitable for many. The Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath offers a generally easy ride, though some sections can be muddy after rain. For more challenging rides, you can explore the gravel biking and MTB trails around Southwick, which include moderate to difficult options.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the walking trails?
Yes, particularly along the Kennet & Avon Canal. Near the Dundas Aqueduct, there is often a boat selling ice cream and cold drinks. You can also follow a signed trail from the canal to the Angel Fish cafe. The nearby Bradford on Avon Town Centre also offers plenty of cafes and bakeries.
What is the best time to visit the trails and attractions around Southwick?
The trails and canal paths are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the finest conditions for cycling and walking, with the surface generally being good. However, some sections of the towpath can become muddy after rain, so checking weather conditions is advisable. The tunnels on The Two Tunnels Greenway are noted for being chilly in summer and warm in winter, offering a unique experience regardless of the season.
Are there any less crowded attractions or trails for a peaceful experience?
While popular, the extensive network of the Kennet and Avon Canal Towpath and various hiking routes means you can often find quieter sections, especially outside of peak rush hours or weekends. Exploring some of the less-trafficked easy hikes listed in the easy hikes around Southwick guide might offer a more serene experience.
Are the trails around Southwick dog-friendly?
Many of the outdoor trails, particularly the canal towpaths and country park loops, are generally dog-friendly. For example, Bradford on Avon Town Centre is listed as dog-friendly, suggesting a welcoming attitude towards pets in the wider area. Always ensure dogs are kept on a lead where necessary and follow local guidelines.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in the Southwick area?
The natural environment along the Kennet & Avon Canal and its surrounding woodlands provides habitats for abundant wildlife. While specific species are not detailed, the tranquil nature of the canal and leafy woodlands suggests opportunities for birdwatching and observing various small animals in their natural settings.
Most popular attractions around Southwick
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