How to get there - From junction 27 on the M5 take the A38. Immediately after crossing over the motorway turn left for Burlescombe and Westleigh. Follow the road through Westleigh then turn left into free car park immediately after crossing the canal bridge. (map)
Suggested Launch Site - Free car park by track by canal. No facilities. Pub in village, but not open weekdays except evenings.
General
Description - The Great Western Canal is a contour canal with no locks. It is controlled by Devon County Council and permits currently cost about £4 per day. Permits can be obtained from the Tiverton end of the canal, or possibly from the web site.
I paddled north east, under the bridge. Very rural, water very clear in January. After the remains of old lime kilns there is a tunnel. The tunnel is short, straight and about 6 feet wide. Onwards the canal gets shallower and I had to portage for a fallen tree.
At Lowdwells, the end of the canal, I turned round and headed south west. Continuing about 3 miles past the start point is Sampford Peverell, and the landing place for the globe inn. This is a good place for lunch on a cold day. The globe gets very busy at weekends. In warm weather there are many possible picnic sites.
From Sampford Peverell I returned to the launch point, a total distance of about 9.5 miles for the trip. (route)
There was much pondweed in places, many kingfishers, and only a few, friendly, anglers
