Foxton Locks Walk

Route Overview

The Foxton Locks Walk is a fascinating 2.5-mile stroll along the Grand Union Canal, centred on the remarkable staircase of ten locks that carry the canal over a steep hill between the villages of Foxton and Gumley. This flight of locks is one of the great engineering achievements of the canal age and the longest staircase lock in Britain, lifting boats over 75 feet through two sets of five interconnected chambers. Watching narrowboats navigate the locks is endlessly absorbing, and dogs seem equally captivated by the activity and sounds of the water.

The route begins at the Foxton Locks car park and follows the towpath north along the summit level of the canal, a peaceful stretch of water bordered by hedgerows and open fields. The canal here runs through the gentle rolling countryside of south Leicestershire, with views across the Welland Valley to the distant hills of Northamptonshire. The towpath is flat and well maintained, surfaced with compacted gravel that provides comfortable walking in all conditions.

After approximately a mile of towpath walking, the route turns back along field paths that run parallel to the canal on the opposite side, offering a different perspective on the landscape. These paths cross open farmland with wide views and a sense of spaciousness. The return approach to Foxton Locks from above provides a dramatic view down the full flight, with the geometrical patterns of the lock chambers and the overflow channels creating a landscape of ordered water engineering.

The walk finishes back at the Foxton Locks area, where you can explore the remains of the Foxton Inclined Plane - an ambitious boat lift built in 1900 to bypass the slow locks, which operated for only 11 years before being abandoned. The grassy embankments and concrete foundations of the incline are a fascinating piece of industrial archaeology that adds depth and interest to an already rewarding walk.

Dog-Friendly Features

The Foxton Locks Walk is very dog-friendly, with the towpath providing a safe, flat surface away from road traffic. Dogs can be off lead on the towpath, though be mindful of the canal edge - while most dogs are sensible around water, the lock chambers present a potential hazard if a dog were to fall in, as the steep, smooth sides can make it difficult to climb out. Keep dogs on a short lead when passing directly alongside the locks.

The canal water itself is accessible at several points along the towpath where the bank slopes gently down. Many dogs enjoy paddling and drinking from the canal, which is generally clean in this rural section. The field path sections also allow off-lead walking when livestock are not present - check carefully as cattle and sheep graze these fields during the warmer months.

Dog waste bins are provided at the car park and at intervals along the towpath. The towpath is shared with cyclists, but traffic is generally light and there is adequate width for everyone. The Foxton Locks area itself can be busy on summer weekends and bank holidays, with families, boaters, and day-trippers all enjoying the unique setting.

Getting There & Parking

The Foxton Locks car park (LE16 7RA) is well signed from the A6 south of Market Harborough. It has space for approximately 60 vehicles with pay-and-display charges. The car park can fill up on summer weekends, especially when boat rallies or events are taking place. There is limited overflow parking along the access lane, but this is narrow and fills quickly.

The nearest railway station is Market Harborough, approximately 4 miles to the east, from where bus services or a taxi can reach Foxton. Cycling along the towpath from Market Harborough is also a pleasant option.

Seasonal Tips

Summer is the busiest and most colourful time at Foxton Locks, when narrowboats queue to navigate the flight and the towpath is alive with visitors. For dog walkers seeking quieter conditions, early morning visits or weekday walks outside school holidays are ideal. Spring brings wild garlic and cow parsley to the hedgerows, and the canal banks are dotted with wildflowers including kingcups and water forget-me-nots.

Autumn is peaceful, with golden reflections on the water and the trees along the canal turning russet and amber. Winter walks are quiet and atmospheric, with the locks often deserted and the sound of water cascading through the overflow channels providing a meditative soundtrack. The towpath remains firm and passable year-round, though the field path sections can be muddy from November to March.

Nearby Facilities

The Bridge 61 cafe at Foxton Locks is a popular stop for walkers and boaters, serving hot drinks, cakes, and light meals. There is outdoor seating where dogs are welcome. A small canal-themed gift shop operates seasonally. Public toilets are available at the car park. The Foxton Locks Inn is nearby and welcomes dogs in designated areas.

Market Harborough, 4 miles east, has a comprehensive range of shops, restaurants, and services. Veterinary care is available in Market Harborough. For a different post-walk experience, the canal museum at the Foxton Inclined Plane Trust provides interesting context about the engineering history of the site.