Walking the Basingstoke Canal Through Woking
The Basingstoke Canal runs right through the heart of Woking — a green corridor for walkers, cyclists, and wildlife.
One of Woking's best free days out runs straight through the middle of town: the Basingstoke Canal. Restored by volunteers and now a Site of Special Scientific Interest along much of its length, the canal offers a level, traffic-free towpath for walking and cycling.
Through the town
The canal passes close to Woking town centre near Chobham Road, beside The Lightbox gallery, and continues under a series of historic bridges including Monument Bridge. Heading west, the towpath climbs the St John's flight of locks, a well-known feature for canal walkers, before continuing towards Brookwood.
To the north, the towpath borders Horsell and the edge of Horsell Common, giving an easy circular route that combines canal and heathland.
Wildlife and scenery
The canal is valued for its wildlife, including dragonflies, water voles, and a wide range of plants, which is why much of it is protected. It is a quiet contrast to the modern town centre only minutes away.
Practical tips
- The towpath is mostly flat but can be muddy after rain — sensible footwear helps.
- The canal links several Woking neighbourhoods, so you can start from the town centre, St John's, or Horsell.
- Cyclists should give way to walkers on the towpath.
Sources
- Basingstoke Canal photographs and location detail, Geograph / Wikimedia Commons
- Surrey County Council "Hidden Surrey — Woking"
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