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The Three Locks is a distinctive canalside destination located on the historic Grand Union Canal, near the charming villages of Stoke Hammond and Soulbury in Buckinghamshire, part of the wider Milton Keynes area. Situated at an elevation of 78 metres, this unique spot is defined by a flight of three canal locks, an adjacent traditional pub also named The Three Locks, a historic road bridge, and a beautifully restored 1838 pumping station. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Britain's industrial…
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13. oktober 2020
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12. maj 2020
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43,3km
02:42
240m
240m
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Detaljer
Oplysninger
Højdemeter 80 m
Vejr
Drevet af Foreca
I dag
tirsdag 24. marts
13°C
6°C
53 %
Flere vejrtips
Maks. vindhastighed: 36,0 km/h
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While the Grand Union Canal towpath offers linear walks north towards Milton Keynes and south towards Leighton Buzzard, many hikers enjoy creating circular routes by combining sections of the towpath with local footpaths through the surrounding countryside. These often involve exploring the villages of Stoke Hammond or Soulbury. You can find detailed maps and route suggestions for circular walks on various hiking platforms.
The towpath offers flexible walking distances. Heading north, you can reach Milton Keynes, which is several miles away, while heading south leads towards Leighton Buzzard. Many visitors opt for shorter, leisurely strolls of 2-5 miles, turning back at a convenient point. The flat terrain makes it easy to adjust your distance as you go.
The Grand Union Canal towpath is generally well-maintained and flat, making it suitable for hybrid bikes, mountain bikes, and leisure cycling. However, sections can be unpaved or have uneven surfaces, especially after rain, which might be challenging for narrow-tyred road bikes. Cyclists often prefer bikes with wider tyres for a more comfortable ride.
Parking is available, particularly around The Three Locks pub, but it can fill up quickly, especially on sunny weekends and bank holidays. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to secure a spot. There are also bike racks available for cyclists.
Yes, the towpath along the Grand Union Canal is largely flat and well-surfaced, making it very suitable for families with young children and pushchairs. It offers a safe and scenic environment for a leisurely stroll, with the added interest of watching canal boats navigate the locks. The pub also has ample outdoor seating, which is convenient for families.
Dogs are generally welcome on the Grand Union Canal towpath, provided they are kept under control, ideally on a lead, especially around other visitors and wildlife. The Three Locks pub is also known to be dog-friendly, often welcoming well-behaved dogs in its outdoor seating areas and sometimes inside designated sections. Always check with the pub directly for their current policy.
The Grand Union Canal towpath at The Three Locks is generally flat and wide, making it one of the more accessible routes in the area. While some sections might have minor unevenness, it is largely suitable for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. The pub and its immediate surroundings are also designed to be accessible.
Given the open nature of the towpath, it's advisable to dress in layers, even on seemingly warm days, as conditions can change. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. In cooler or wetter weather, a waterproof jacket and sturdy, water-resistant footwear are essential. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) is important during warmer months, as there's limited shade along the canal.
The Three Locks pub is the primary and most convenient refreshment stop directly at the locks. However, the nearby villages of Stoke Hammond and Soulbury may offer other local pubs or cafes. For a wider selection, you would need to venture a bit further into towns like Leighton Buzzard or Milton Keynes. Many visitors pack a picnic to enjoy by the canal if they prefer not to use the pub.
Yes, the beautifully restored 1838 pumping station is a key feature of The Three Locks. It once played a crucial role in maintaining canal water levels. While its primary function now includes housing a workshop and lock keepers' facilities, it often features historical displays that offer fascinating insights into the canal's operational history and engineering ingenuity. Check local notices for specific opening times or guided tours.
The Three Locks stands out due to its unique combination of three working locks, the historic pumping station, and the traditional canalside pub all in one compact location. This cluster of features provides a particularly rich and engaging experience compared to more isolated sections of the canal. The facilities, including the pub and parking, are also more concentrated and convenient here than at many other canal access points.