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Braunston lies at the junction of the Grand Union Canal and the
Oxford Canal in a truly rural setting on the border of Northamptonshire
and Warwickshire. The village, on the hill above the canal, thrived
for over 150 years on the canal trade - carrying goods from the
Midlands to London. Now it is a centre for leisure activities
and boasts the busiest flight of locks anywhere in the country. Braunston village lies just off the A45 which crosses the canal twice. |
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General Information [See also Forthcoming Events ]
The biggest single canal enterprise is the Marina (on the A45), in addition there is a score of smaller businesses providing all the needs of the modern boater.
On the towpath near the Marina is "The Stop House", the British Waterways Local Office (01788 890666). This has a small exhibition and information room which is open Mon-Fri during normal working hours and summer Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
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The village itself is on a ridge above the canal where All Saints' Church dominates the countryside for miles around. Built in 1849, it is the third church on the site and the Norman font still survives from the first; there is much of interest to see in the church which prides itself in its music. A visit is well worthwhile. The day visitor will enjoy strolling along the well kept towpaths or walking up to the village where, as well as the church, there are two pubs and a small group of shops (see below). There are also three canal-side shops selling souvenirs and a limited range of food and ices. |
The more dedicated walker will find guides to the two long-distance walks (which pass by) on sale at the Stop House and the Marina Shop. These are from London to Birmingham and from Oxford to Coventry.
Thirsts can be quenched at the Mill House or The Admiral Nelson (both on the canal-side) or up in the village at The Old Plough or the Wheatsheaf. All serve food. For those wishing to spend more time there is accommodation at The Mill House, at Nelson Cottage Crafts (B&B) and with Dave and Annie Rogers (B&B). More details.
Those who would prefer to get away, can hire a boat from Union Canal Carriers or take a self-drive day trip on Water Ouzel.
| Two minutes walk from the canal (at Butcher's Bridge) brings you to the High Street, turn right and in 100yds you reach The Braunston Village Stores, a small supermarket and off-licence with a good range of groceries. Opposite is the family butcher while a little further along the road is the Post Office and Braunston Fryer (frying Tues-Sat). The village also has a unisex hairdresser and a Bric-a-Brac shop. More details about the shops. |
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