The Wey & Arun Canal Trust was formed in 1973 with the aim of restoring the 23-mile navigable link between the Rivers Wey and Arun, and so recreating the direct water link between London and the South Coast.
So far 22 bridges and two aqueducts have been reconstructed, eleven locks restored and a new one built, several culverts rebuilt and many miles of bed canal cleared and dredged. Fully restored, the Wey & Arun Canal would rate among the most scenic in the country.
The Wey & Arun Canal Trust has updated its essential guide, Visiting the Wey & Arun Canal.
The latest publication has been revised to include recent restoration projects such as the £375,000 Gennets Bridge Lock and £375,000 Southland Lock, both near Loxwood, West Sussex, the circular walkway at Birtley in Surrey and the Thriscutt Slipway at Dunsfold on the Surrey/Sussex border.
With handy maps and photos, historical background and practical advice on accessing the canal, the guide is an essential for those who want to get more out of their exploration of the 23-mile waterway. The guide covers the canal route in detail, with maps and extensive illustrations in full colour. It highlights the unmissable beauty spots, areas of restoration and original features and also explains the next steps needed to bring each section of the canal back into use.
Wey & Arun Canal Trust chairman Sallay Schupke said: “While the Canal Centre at Loxwood, West Sussex, and the public boat cruises offered from there may have helped many people explore one section of the canal, there are many other parts of the waterway that visitors have yet to discover. This guide offers a glimpse into the old and new of the canal, its route through the stunning Sussex and Surrey countryside, and provides a practical guide to getting the most from the Wey & Arun Canal.”
The 72-page guide, priced £6, was first printed in 2012 and has been written and edited by volunteers Julian Cheek and Geoff Thomas. It is available from our website: https://weyarun.org.uk/shop
