Regent's Canal Walk
"Regent's Canal is a peaceful towpath walk from Little Venice to Camden through hidden corners of London, passing colorful houseboats, canal-side cafes, and greenery away from traffic. The full walk is 8.6 miles but most people walk the scenic section from Little Venice to Camden (about 2.5 miles, 1 hour). You can see London Zoo animals for free from the path."
Logistics
Affordable
Vibe
Peaceful, scenic
Duration
1-2 hours
Best For
Walking
The Backstory
Built 1812-1820 to link the Grand Junction Canal at Paddington to the Thames at Limehouse, enabling goods transport across London. It fell into disuse with railways but was restored in the 1980s-90s for recreation. The houseboats began appearing in the 1960s.
Local Secret
"Start at Little Venice (Warwick Avenue tube) and walk to Camden Lock for the best route. Stop at the Towpath Cafe (near Haggerston) for excellent coffee and pastries. You'll see free glimpses of London Zoo animals from the path—look for giraffes and birds. Camden Lock has weekend markets."