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Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
United Kingdom
England
West Midlands Region
Coventry

Longford Urban Circular Walk

Easy

3.8

(4)

13

hikers

Longford Urban Circular Walk

01:47

7.00km

20m

Hiking

This easy 4.4-mile circular hike in Coventry offers a blend of canal-side paths and nature reserves, including Wyken Slough.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

1.70 km

Stone Sofa Sculpture on Coventry Canal

Highlight • Viewpoint

There are a number of sculptures along the canal trail in Coventry, this one was designed by Tim Shutter in 1997 fit with its own ores and raft. Take a seat and enjoy the views over the water.

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2

3.23 km

Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop)

Highlight • Historical Site

An important link in England's canal network for around 200 years, Hawkesbury Junction is the northern termination of the Oxford Canal, as it joins the Coventry Canal. If you've just finished the Oxford Canal Walk, you'll have earned yourself a refreshment in the Greyhound Inn, a traditional canalside inn with a higgledy-piggledy interior.

Tip by

3

3.43 km

Hawkesbury Visitor Moorings (stop lock) is a minor waterways place on the Oxford Canal (Northern Section - Main Line) between Wyken Arm Junction (Old Colliery Branch) (1 mile and 2¾ furlongs to the southeast) and Sutton Stop (¾ furlongs to the west).

It is part of Hawkesbury Junction.

The nearest place in the direction of Wyken Arm Junction is Site of Substation Footbridge (Not for public use); 2¾ furlongs away.

The nearest place in the direction of Sutton Stop is Hawkesbury Water Point (stop lock); ½ furlongs away.

Tip by

4

5.55 km

Despite its urban setting, Wyken Slough's grassland and wetland makes for a wonderful reconnection with nature. A large flock of mute swans inhabit the Wyken Pool, along with other waterfowl. The marsh provides protection for reed bunting, meadow pippet and jack snipe.

Tip by

B

7.00 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.09 km

2.17 km

356 m

210 m

183 m

Surfaces

6.27 km

356 m

197 m

183 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Sunday 10 May

12°C

3°C

52 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Longford Urban Circular Walk suitable for beginners?

Yes, this trail is graded as easy and is suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, including beginners. It's a leisurely walk perfect for those looking for an accessible outing.

What is the terrain like on the trail?

The terrain is varied, blending natural reserves with canal-side paths. You'll walk alongside the River Sowe, on the Coventry Canal and Oxford Canal towpaths, and through natural areas like Wyken Slough Nature Reserve. There are also some urban sections as it navigates around Coventry.

What can I see along the route?

The trail offers a diverse experience. You'll encounter the tranquility of nature reserves, the historical charm of the canals, and green spaces within Coventry. Notable features include the Stone Sofa Sculpture on Coventry Canal, the historic Hawkesbury Canal Junction (Sutton Stop), and the swans at Wyken Pool – Swans at Wyken Slough Nature Reserve.

Is this a loop trail?

Yes, the Longford Urban Circular Walk is a circular route, meaning you'll end up back near your starting point without having to retrace your steps.

Where can I park for the Longford Urban Circular Walk?

While specific parking details aren't provided, the trail starts at Longford Nature Reserve. Look for local parking options around Longford Park or the nature reserve area in Coventry.

How can I get to the trailhead using public transport?

As an urban walk within Coventry, the trail is generally accessible by public transport. Check local bus routes that serve the Longford Nature Reserve or Longford Park area for the most convenient access.

Is the Longford Urban Circular Walk dog-friendly?

Generally, canal towpaths and nature reserves in the UK are dog-friendly, but dogs should be kept on a leash, especially around wildlife and other trail users. Always clean up after your pet.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, it can be a pleasant walk, though conditions might be muddier on unpaved sections.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the trail or Wyken Slough Nature Reserve?

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Longford Urban Circular Walk or to enter Wyken Slough Nature Reserve. It's freely accessible to the public.

Does the trail intersect other well-known paths?

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other official trails, including the Oxford Canal Walk, Sowe Valley Footpath, Rail Trail: Coventry Arena > Bedworth, Cycle Coventry Route 2, Centenary Way, and Coventry's Canal Walk.

Are there any facilities like cafes or pubs along the route?

Given its urban setting and proximity to canal junctions like Hawkesbury Junction Visitor Moorings, you may find pubs or cafes nearby, particularly around the canal sections. It's always a good idea to check local listings for current opening times.

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