Forum Topic

Disability accessibility Grand Union Canal towpath

Can anyone please advise on the accessibility of the GUC towpath for a mobility scooter user? I have asked the Waterways Authority but they cannot advise. I do not want to try it only to find four miles in there is an insurmountable steep towpath bridge, steps, rough gravel like the Thames path etc meaning I have to attempt to turn around (dangerous on a scooter with water very close) or having to abandon. Thanks for any information forthcoming. N

Neal Rollason ● 2227d6 Comments

Just read Hanwell Locks got GREEN FLAG AWARD. If you can get to Hanwell might suit you to have a look. How have you gotton on in your endeavours withe the towpath?

Nichols Beard ● 2208d

Most of the towpath from Brentford to Hanwell and beyond is now in such poor condition that it is hazardous to use even as a proficient cyclist. A lot of tree roots are pushing up the smoother surfaces and the rest is disintegrating and becoming loose under wheel or foot.I think it would be a real risk with a wheelchair or on a bike if not a sure and safe rider.  Also a lot encroaching of thorny vegetation, nettles and Horseflies to deal with so it's a great nature trail but not without hazards to be aware of.

Raymond Havelock ● 2224d

The Canal and Rivers Trust has an 'Accessibility Map' on their website:https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/walking/accessibility-map

Peter Evans ● 2226d

I managed a good few miles up the path on my scooter. It was an experiment as I, like you, hadn't a clue. My son set off with me on foot. I had thought the bridge at the bottom of Boston Manor Park may be too steep but if you give the speed a bit of welly then it can make it easily. I have to say that my scooter does get up to 8mph but I'm sure a lesser limit would be fine. I also managed all the Hanwell Locks hills but got stuck at the part where you turn off to go to the Fox in Hanwell. Give it a go. It's a brilliant ride! Hope this helps.

Joanna Russell ● 2227d

On leaving Brentford when you reach Hangmans Bridge near Boston Manor you may have trouble going over this bridge because it is steep. Have a look on the internet at photos. Also some time ago frames were put across the towpath to prevent motor bikes getting on it but a push bike could be pushed through it so a wheel mobilty scooter could not.

Nichols Beard ● 2227d

You could google Capital Ring Walk which takes in the Grand Union Canal and the River Brent. I've just had a quick look and it gives alternatives to where there are steps, at least on the Brentford stretch. It doesn't make it explicit as to whether the walk is suitable for a mobility scooter user, however. The site is one of TfLs if I remember correctly.No doubt you have covered the Thames Path up and down from Kew Bridge, Kew side. To be honest, I would have thought this would be a better bet.I hope you get the information you need.

Anne England ● 2227d