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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
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. 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).
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.
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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). |
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