Exeter Ship Canal

The Exeter Ship Canal is an artificial waterway that runs from the River Exe to Exeter Quay, featuring a series of locks and historic structures along its course. The waterway cuts through the city center, providing a navigable route for boats while serving as a public walk alongside the water.

Built in 1566, the canal introduced Britain's first pound locks, allowing vessels to navigate around the River Exe weir and reach the city directly. This transformed Exeter into a major trading port by removing the barrier that had previously restricted larger ships from entering.

The waterway serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors walk alongside historic warehouses that line the banks, reflecting how maritime trade shaped the city's identity. The structures along the route tell the story of merchants and shipping that once drove Exeter's economy.

The waterway is accessible on foot and by bicycle along a flat path that runs the length of the canal to the quay. Wear appropriate footwear as the towpath can be slippery near the locks and water's edge, particularly after rain or during wet weather.

The Double Locks section features extensive pools and channels where kingfishers, herons, and dragonflies inhabit the water and surrounding vegetation. This quieter stretch contrasts sharply with the busier urban sections downstream, creating a more natural environment within the city.