The idyllic route will take you through one of London’s prettiest areas
The route winds through some of West London’s most picturesque scenery(Image: grafxart8888 via Getty Images)
Venice may be quite a trek from London, but surprisingly, the capital has its very own ‘Venice’ right here. Situated in West London, where the Paddington Branch of the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent’s Canal, lies the aptly named Little Venice.
Waterways and rivers wind through this picturesque neighbourhood, which boasts distinctive waterside cafés, inviting taverns, and charming restaurants with views across various stretches of the canals. The Telegraph once named it one of London’s ‘most beautiful walks’.
This delightful London route offers an abundance of activities around every bend – ideal if you haven’t got time to fly off to Italy. Best of all, you can even catch a ‘water bus’ to reach it.
You can explore the area from the water, too(Image: A-Tom via Getty Images)
Activities in Little Venice
Meander along the Regent’s Canal, which stretches from Little Venice all the way to the Docklands, weaving through Camden Town and London Zoo. Admire the urban street art adorning the walls while soaking up the tranquil ambience. Explore Maida Vale’s elegant Regency streets towards Regent’s Park and Camden, or venture upstream.
Several of London’s independent theatres call this area home. Catch a performance at the Puppet Theatre Barge, a theatre housed on a canal barge, or enjoy award-winning fringe theatre and comedy at the Canal Café Theatre, which has been stationed on the Regent’s Canal since the 1970s. Begin your visit at Rembrandt Gardens, originally created during the 1950s, which features a fountain adorned with carvings and diverse wildlife. For additional retail therapy, discover when the next floating market arrives at Little Venice’s waterways.
Sports enthusiasts will find Lord’s Cricket Ground slightly further along the canal. Wander around the pitch, join a guided tour exploring the venue’s heritage, or visit the on-site museum.
Dining and drinking options in Little Venice
Against the canal’s backdrop, Little Venice’s restaurants and cafes provide a stunning setting. The Summerhouse, a beautiful waterside establishment, serves seafood accompanied by brilliant views. Alternatively, unwind during a peaceful evening at The Waterway, a bar and restaurant serving French, Modern European and traditional brasserie cuisine alongside French wines and selected New World varieties. An outdoor terrace overlooking the canal operates throughout the summer months.
It’s also well worth trying the genuine Chinese cuisine at Pearl Liang. The interior showcases bamboo decorations and water features adorned with paintings of Chinese blossom branches, creating a striking contrast with Little Venice’s exterior landscape.
Finally, enjoying a pint at The Bridge House, a quintessential British pub with canal views, is essential.
Travelling by water bus
Why not journey from Camden Town to Little Venice aboard a water bus? The boat winds through a number of interesting locations over the 45-minute journey, revealing more of London from Regent’s Park to London Zoo’s gardens and the echoing depths of the 248-metre Maida Hill tunnel. Every vessel features slide-opening windows to guarantee stunning views throughout, providing glimpses of graffiti, gardens and wildlife.
Tickets for adults cost £17, while children, pensioners, students or disabled visitors can purchase tickets for £13. Those under four travel free of charge.
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