Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal Dog-Friendly Guide

If you enjoy calm, uninterrupted walking with your dog, this is one of the best stretches around. The Wendover Arm of the Grand Union Canal is a picturesque Buckinghamshire waterway constructed between 1793 and 1797. Its primary purpose was to supply water from springs near Wendover to the main Grand Junction Canal Tring Summit. Despite its scenic beauty, the canal faced challenges due to water leakage, leading to partial closures and periods of disuse. Restoration efforts are spearheaded by the Wendover Arm Trust, aiming to preserve this historic canal and enhance its appeal for recreational use. Today, it is a testament to early engineering and ongoing community dedication.

Most people join the towpath from Wendover and head towards Halton or Drayton Beauchamp, enjoying the mix of open views and shaded stretches.

Begin your journey in Wendover, a charming market town in the Chiltern Hills. Wendover is easily accessible by car or train, with ample parking. Before you start walking, take some time to explore the town,, which is known for its cosy, dog-friendly cafes and pubs.

The towpath along the Wendover Arm is well-maintained and offers a flat, easy walk suitable for dogs of all sizes and fitness levels. Remember to bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days, as there are limited places to refill along the way.

The path runs along the canal for around 11 km (7 miles), stretching from Wendover to its junction with the Grand Union Canal near Tring. However, many options exist to extend or complete the path in sections.

Wendover to Halton

Your walk officially begins at Wendover Wharf. Once bustling with canal traffic, it is now an easy-to-miss starting point next to a school. The Wharf offers a glimpse into the canal’s past with informative plaques and restored features. Ensure your dog is on a lead as you navigate this area, as it can be pretty busy with other walkers, runners and cyclists.

Shortly after setting off, you’ll pass Halton Wide, a section of the canal that broadens. Historically, these wide sections allowed boats to turn and pass each other more easily and you will see a number on your walk

Approximately halfway between Wendover and Halton, you’ll reach a point where you can take a delightful diversion to the Weston Turville Reservoir. To access the reservoir, follow the marked footpath that branches off the canal. The reservoir is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, and as it is a reserve, you will need to keep your dog on a lead.

As you approach Halton, the landscape begins subtly changing, with more signs of the village appearing. The towpath remains easy to navigate, offering beautiful views of the countryside. Halton is known for its picturesque charm and military history, home to RAF Halton.

Just before you reach the village, you’ll come to Halton Bridge, an iconic canal structure. This historic bridge adds a touch of architectural interest to your walk and marks your entry into the village of Halton.

You can divert into the village to see the grass runway of RAF Halton or visit Halton Church, both a couple of minutes from the canal.

Halton to Drayton Beaucham

Shortly after setting off, you’ll pass Halton Wide, a section of the canal that broadens, providing a scenic spot to pause and take in the surroundings.

As you continue along the towpath, you’ll enjoy shaded pathways interspersed with open views across the fields. The sunlight and shade make for a comfortable walk, even on warmer days. The path remains easy to navigate, ensuring a pleasant experience for you and your dog.

You can take a right and head uphill to Wendover Woods. Then, you can walk through the woods and back down into Wendover, which makes an excellent circular dog walk.

But let’s continue along the canal, and we will reach Drayton Beauchamp. This small, quiet hamlet is a peaceful waypoint on your journey. The St. Mary the Virgin Church here is worth a quick visit. While dogs might not be allowed inside, the surrounding area provides an excellent spot for a short rest and water break.

Drayton Beauchamp to Grand Union Junction

As you continue towards Bulbourne Junction, you’ll reach the outskirts of Tringford. This area transitions from the more rural countryside to the canal’s historical industrial sections. The towpath remains easy to navigate, with well-kept paths and beautiful scenery.

One notable landmark is the Tringford Pumping Station, an essential part of the canal’s infrastructure. This station played a crucial role in maintaining water levels in the canal, and its historic buildings are a fascinating sight. While the station is inaccessible to the public, the surrounding area offers interesting views and a sense of the canal’s industrial heritage.

Bulbourne Junction is where the Wendover Arm meets the main line of the Grand Union Canal and where your walk concludes. It is a picturesque meeting point of canals and is steeped in history, with the old Toll House and canal-side buildings now used as a dry dock adding to its charm.

If you are ready for a drink or something to eat, The Grand Junction Arms, a short walk eastwards along the Grand Union Canal, is popular with outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. It’s a perfect spot to rest and enjoy the scenery before heading back or arranging for transportation home.