How to get there - By the bridge on B2080 (New Romney - Tenterden) just south of Appledore village. For those with SatNav the postcode is TN26 2DA
Get a map with driving directions to start (enter the postcode of your starting point at A)
Suggested Launch Site - Easy bank from roadside
General
Description - A calm and undisturbed stretch of canal, with the best scenery going east to Hamstreet. This makes a round trip of about 7 miles. It can be extended into a one-way trip to West Hythe, about 12 miles, where there is a sluice blocking navigation. Launch would also be possible at West Hythe.
A round trip of 7 miles in the other direction to Iden lock is also possble, but finding a launch site at Iden is difficult.
The canal was built at the time of the Napoleonic Wars, against the possibility of invasion. It has sharp turns, angled so that defenders could fire along the length of the canal while still protected by the parapet on the northern bank.
Best in early season before the weeds grow. For photos see web sites.
BCU membership or Environment Agency licence needed.
Comments on this trip
Tom 26 Aug 2012
Jump over the sluice and continue down the canal. Scenery is absolutely stunning water crystal clear for first stretch. Doesn't break out into Hythe for a good mile or so where it's a short walk for a bite to eat, and then back into stunning countryside all the way to Sandgate. Best place to launch is here as far more accessible than sluice.
