Stonebench - Gloucester Docks - Stonebench

Gloucester Docks are a remarkably complete example of a Victorian port, which was very busy at one time. It is the furthest inland port in the country, accessed by the River Severn and the Sharpness - Gloucester Ship Canal. Cargoes were transferred onto smaller narrowboats at the docks for transporting further up the river and through the canal system to supply the growing industrial towns of the Midlands. Nowadays, the docks are mostly used by pleasure craft and the occasional yacht or tall ship. A number of fine warehouses line the docks, where ships once unloaded their cargoes, but now have other uses, such as exclusive bars and cafes, and museums.

The walk starts off very differently, as a quiet country walk following the River Severn across fields and then around the edge of a landfill site, admittedly not the most scenic part of the route, but a small part of the huge amount of variety that can be seen on this walk. Heading into Gloucester, the theme of the walk changes to a city centre walk. An ancient priory is passed which is well worth exploring and the historic docks are fully explored.

Following the ship canal, the route back to the start is likely to be much more busy, with people walking and cycling along the towpath, the occasional boat on its way to or from the docks, as well as an almost continuous line of fishermen along the banks of the canal. You will also see one of the few remaining lightships, now moored permanently just outside the entrance to the docks,and serving as centre for complementary therapies.

England - South West England - Gloucestershire - Town or city

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Walk id: 6387

Walk grade

Easy Walk

Length

7.5 Miles

Height gain

10 Metres

Duration

3 Hours 1 Mins

Average rating

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