Boating

Canoeing and boating are wonderful ways to explore the Grand Western Canal. To use your own craft, simply purchase a permit before you set out.

• Motorised boating

  Motorised Boating on the Grand Western Canal 

  Motorised boating is a valued recreational activity within the Country Park and has been actively encouraged since 2003. With ongoing improvements – including  moorings, a slipway, landing stages, pump‑out and water supply points, and an extensive dredging programme – the canal has become an increasingly attractive destination for those seeking a peaceful, lock‑free waterway.

  At the same time, Devon County Council is committed to protecting the canal’s exceptional natural environment and wildlife habitats. Boaters are expected to operate responsibly to ensure that increased activity does not negatively impact this unique setting.

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  Responsible Boating

  In addition to the conditions outlined in your boating permit, we encourage all users to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Initiatives such as The Green Blue (supported by the British Marine Federation and the Royal Yachting Association) promote sustainable boating through research, practical projects, and guidance.

  For safe and responsible navigation, please refer to:

  • The Boater’s Handbook (Canal & River Trust & Environment Agency)
  • Navigational Notes and Rules provided with your permit (specific to the Grand Western Canal)

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  Canal Information

  • Category A waterway (wide canal)
  • Completely lock‑free
  • One lift bridge
  • Height restriction: just under 2 metres

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  Motorised Boat Permits

  A valid permit must be purchased in advance to use your own boat on the canal.

  Short-Term Powered Boats

  (Boats without a paid mooring)

  Boat Length	Day	3 Days	Week	6 Months	Year
  Under 12 ft	£10	£20	£30	£80	£100
  12 ft and over	£15	£25	£35	£100	£130

  Moored Boats

  (Boats with a paid mooring)

  Boat Length	0–3 Months	3–6 Months	1 Year
  Under 30 ft	£100	£160	£250
  30–45 ft	£120	£220	£320
  Over 45 ft	£140	£250	£350

  Moorings are currently available through Mid Devon Moorings (01884 252178) or via the Ranger Service (01884 254072) with a mooring agreement.

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  Important Information

  • Engine limit: Maximum 2.5hp per metre of boat length
  • Speed limit: 4 mph
  • Insurance: Minimum £1 million third‑party cover required for powered boats
  • Boat Safety: Boats with fuel, gas, or electrical systems must hold a valid Boat Safety Scheme certificate

  By following these guidelines, you help preserve the tranquillity, safety, and natural beauty of the Grand Western Canal for everyone to enjoy.

• Where to Buy Permits

  Buy Online

  The quickest and easiest way to get your permit:

  https://secure.mipermit.com/devon

  Buy In Person

  Permits are available from the following local outlets:

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  Canal Ranger Service
  The Moorings, Canal Hill, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 4HX
  T: 01884 254072
  E: gwcanal@devon.gov.uk
  Open: Mon–Fri, 9:00am–4:30pm
  Please note: Staff are often working out on the canal – phone ahead before visiting. Payment by cash or cheque only.

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  Tiverton Canal Co. (Gift Shop)
  The Wharf, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 4HX
  T: 01884 253345
  E: info@tivertoncanal.co.uk
  Open: Easter to October

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  Premier Wilcombe Stores (unpowered permits only)
  42 Halsbury Road, Tiverton, Devon, EX16 4AE
  T: 01884 253174
  Open:
  Mon–Fri: 6:00am–9:00pm
  Sat–Sun: 7:00am–9:00pm

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  Minnows Touring Park
  Sampford Peverell, Devon, EX16 7EN
  T: 01884 821770
  E: admin@minnowstouringpark.co.uk
  Open: March to October

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  Sampford Peverell Spar Shop
  Lowertown, Sampford Peverell, EX16 7FB
  T: 01884 829535
  Open:
  Mon–Fri: 7:00am–8:00pm
  Sat: 7:30am–8:00pm
  Sun: 8:00am–8:00pm

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  Buy by Post (Unpowered Boats Only)

  You can apply by post for unpowered boat permits (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and rowing boats).

  Download and complete the application form
  Send it with a cheque payment
  Your permit and sticker will be posted within 3 days of receipt

• Boat Hire, Moorings & Services

  Tiverton Canal Co.
  The Wharf, Tiverton, EX16 4HX
  T: 01884 253345
  E: info@tivertoncanal.co.uk

  • Horse-drawn barge trips
  • Rowing boats and Canadian canoes
  • Water, pump-out, and maintenance

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  Mid Devon Moorings
  Orchard Farm, East Manley, Tiverton, EX16 4NJ
  T: 01884 252178

  • Private moorings (1, 6, or 12 months)
  • No residential moorings
  • Services: utilities, waste disposal, parking, maintenance
• Slipway Access

  Boehill Slipway Access

  

  Location: Boehill Slipway, near M5 Junction 27
  Postcode: EX16 7EG
  What3Words: coaster.rider.health

  Boehill Slipway provides convenient access to the canal and is designed in accordance with Inland Waterways Association and Canal & River Trust guidelines for trail boats.

  Suitable for:

  • Boats up to 7.5 metres in length
  • Maximum width of 2.2 metres

  Parking & Access:

  • No parking is permitted directly beside the slipway.
  • Parking for cars and trailers is available in a nearby field, located along the slipway access track between the allotments and the track.
  • This arrangement is provided by agreement with the landowner.

  ⚠️ Important:
  Access to the parking field is controlled by a locked gate. Please purchase your permit in advance from the Sampford Peverell Spar Shop, where you will be given the padlock code and full parking instructions.

  Further details and local guidance are provided when your permit is issued.

  

• Safety & Navigational Notes

  

  Safety & Navigational Notes

  For the safety of all canal users, please follow these essential guidelines:

  • Horse‑drawn barge priority: Always pass the barge on the offside (non‑towpath side). Never pass between the horse and the barge.
  • Towpath mooring restrictions: Mooring is not permitted on the towpath side between Tiverton Basin and East Manley Bridge from March to November, as this route is used by the horse‑drawn barge.
  • Engine limits: Only outboard motors up to 2.5 horsepower per metre of boat length are allowed.
  • Speed limit: The maximum speed is 4 mph. Please navigate carefully and avoid creating a breaking wash.
  • Insurance: All powered craft must carry third‑party insurance with a minimum cover of £1 million.
  • Safety compliance: Boats must comply with the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) requirements—please refer to the scheme for full details.
  • Wildlife awareness: Take care around wildlife, particularly during nesting season (e.g. swans).

  Further navigation guidance and local rules are issued with your permit.

  Additional resources:

  • The Boater’s Handbook (Canal & River Trust & Environment Agency)
  • Rules and guidance printed on the reverse of your permit

Need Help?

Canal Ranger Service
T: 01884 254072
E: gwcanal@devon.gov.uk