Grand Western Canal Country Park, Tiverton, Devon
The Grand Western Canal Country Park covers just over 11 miles of town and countryside in the glorious mid Devon countryside; central to it is the Grand Western Canal, a gentle waterway passing through the peaceful villages between Tiverton and the Somerset border. It's a lovely place for a stroll, and of course it’s a haven for wildlife, hence it’s country park and local nature reserve status; orchids grow on the embankments in the spring and yellow flag irises grow at the water’s edge. In the summer parts of the towpath are abundant with wild flowers, a big draw for butterflies and bees, while dragonflies hover over the water. Look out for swans, ducks and moorhens and if you’re very, very lucky, a kingfisher or a snipe; the waterside habitat provides shelter for wagtails and warblers and the hedgerows support a number of native songbirds. There are bigger creatures too; if you’re quiet you might spy deer, foxes or badgers, though otters may prove more elusive; at night you can join in one of the ranger led bat walks.
The canal has some tranquil spots for fishing, and the tow paths, being level, are great for walking and cycling, but without a doubt the most relaxing thing to do whilst you’re here is to get a little Wind in the Willows and go boating. At Tiverton Canal Co you can hire day boats, rowing boats and Canadian canoes, or if you don't want to take the oars yourself, hope on board one of the few horse drawn barges left in the country for a leisurely cruise. When you get back to the canal basin, go to the Visitor Centre to read up on the history of the country park and see the displays. Find a suitable spot for a picnic, or treat yourselves to a cream tea at Canal Tea Rooms & Gardens, or a drink in the waterside garden of Duck’s Ditty Floating Café Bar. Time to slow down, to enjoy - a rather special place to visit on your large group holiday in Devon.
All information correct at the time of writing