Leighton Buzzard To Stoke Bruerne

Shortly after leaving the hire base in Leighton Buzzard you’ll encounter your first lock. As it is only a single lock, it’s a good opportunity to get used to what is commonly known as ‘lock wheeling’. Your journey leads you through the valley of the Ouzel with its picturesque hills and open countryside. The Grand Union seems much more like a river than a canal on this stretch, which is quite uncommon for this waterway. The surrounding countryside is very pleasant, soon you will reach the outskirts of Milton Keynes. Once you have passed through the city and it’s urban surroundings you’ll cross the Great Ouse Aqueduct and pass through Cosgrove lock. Cosgrove itself is best at the canal, don’t miss the interesting pedestrian tunnel that leads under the canal and the warehouses. You’ll notice the Georgian House, Cosgrove Hall, that's situated on the west bank of the canal.

Now it’s only a short cruise until you reach your turning point for this journey. You can either head up the 7 Stoke Bruerne Locks or you turn around at the winding hole and walk up to visit the National Waterways Museum. If you decide to tackle the locks, there are winding holes just before the entrance to Blisworth Tunnel. If you want to stretch your legs after all the cruising, there are a number of footpaths that lead away from the Museum, which are well worth exploring.