River Lee Navigation: A Historic and Scenic Waterway from Hertford to the Thames
A historic 28-mile canalised river blending industrial heritage, urban vibrancy, and tranquil green spaces from Hertford to the Thames.
The River Lee Navigation is a 28-mile canalised river flowing from Hertford Castle Weir through Hertfordshire and East London to join the River Thames at Bow Creek. With a rich history dating back to Roman times and significant industrial heritage, it offers a blend of urban vibrancy and peaceful natural scenery. The navigation features locks, towpaths for walking and cycling, and is a popular route for boating and outdoor recreation.
A brief summary to River Lee Navigation
- GB
- Duration: 1 to 6 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Explore sections of the navigation on foot or bike using the Lea Valley Walk towpath for varied scenery and wildlife.
- Enjoy boating along the navigation with well-equipped mooring points and facilities managed by the Canal & River Trust.
- Visit historic sites like Hertford Lock, Bow Locks, and Three Mills House Mill to appreciate the navigation’s industrial past.
- Stop at canal-side pubs such as the Princess of Wales in Clapton for a relaxing break with waterside views.
- Be mindful of shared use on towpaths as they are popular with walkers, cyclists, and runners.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Hertford East station (approximately 30-45 minutes from London Liverpool Street), then enjoy a 20-30 minute walk to the navigation starting point at Hertford Castle Weir. This option offers scenic countryside access and is suitable for most travelers.
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Bus and Cycle
Use local bus services connecting towns along the Lee Navigation, such as from Enfield or Walthamstow, combined with cycling along the towpath. Bus journeys vary between 20-50 minutes depending on the route. Cycling allows flexible exploration but requires a moderate fitness level.
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Boat Access
Hire or travel by canal boat along the Lee Navigation from Hertford or other mooring points. Boating holidays typically last from a day to a week, offering a leisurely way to experience the waterway. Facilities for water and refuse disposal are available at key locations.
River Lee Navigation location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about River Lee Navigation
An Ancient Watercourse Transformed for Navigation
The River Lee Navigation traces its origins to the natural River Lea, which rises in the Chiltern Hills and flows southeast through Hertfordshire and East London before meeting the River Thames at Bow Creek. Historically, the river was a vital transport and trade route, with evidence of Bronze Age dugout canoes and Anglo-Saxon barges. In the medieval period, it supported numerous water mills and was a crucial artery for transporting grain to London. The first Act of Parliament to improve the river was passed in 1424, marking the beginning of centuries of canalisation and lock construction to facilitate navigation and commerce.Engineering and Industrial Heritage Along the Waterway
The Lee Navigation as it exists today was largely shaped by 18th- and 19th-century improvements, including the creation of straight canal cuts, towpaths, and locks such as Hertford Lock and Bow Locks. These modifications allowed for more efficient movement of goods, especially during the Industrial Revolution when the Lower Lee Valley became a hub for chemical manufacturing, railways, and other industries. The navigation’s infrastructure reflects this heritage, with roving bridges and lock gates designed by pioneers like John Smeaton and William Jessop. The Limehouse Cut, connecting the navigation to the Thames, shortened travel times and enhanced London’s commercial waterways.Natural Beauty and Urban Green Spaces
Today, the Lee Navigation offers a striking contrast between bustling urban environments and tranquil natural landscapes. Towpaths run alongside the waterway, popular with walkers, cyclists, and runners, passing through green spaces such as Walthamstow Marshes, Hackney Marshes, and the Lee Valley Park. The area supports diverse wildlife and includes nature reserves and reservoirs. Restoration projects linked to the 2012 London Olympics have enhanced access and improved habitats, making the navigation a valued recreational resource.Recreational Boating and Community Along the Waterway
The navigation is a favored route for canal boaters, with mooring points and facilities such as water points and refuse stations at regular intervals. Boaters enjoy the mixture of countryside serenity near Hertford and the vibrant urban scenes closer to London. The navigation is lined with charming pubs and eateries, including canal-side terraces that provide social hubs for the boating community. The Canal & River Trust manages the waterway, promoting sustainable use and conservation.Walking and Cycling Routes with Historical Highlights
The Lee Navigation towpath forms part of the Lea Valley Walk, a long-distance route extending from Waltham Abbey to Limehouse Basin. Along the way, visitors encounter historical sites such as Old Ford Locks, Three Mills House Mill, and remnants of industrial architecture. The route offers varied scenery, from peaceful rural stretches to lively urban quarters, appealing to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.Environmental and Cultural Significance Today
The River Lee Navigation remains a vital green corridor through London, balancing heritage, recreation, and ecology. Efforts to clean and re-green the river have helped restore wildlife habitats and improve water quality. The navigation’s blend of history, nature, and urban life makes it a unique and cherished feature of the region’s landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Gypsy Stone
4.4 km
Discover the Gypsy Stone in Woodford, a serene forest monument honoring evangelist Rodney 'Gipsy' Smith and Romani heritage.
Shoreditch Park
11.1 km
Experience the lush greenery and vibrant culture at Shoreditch Park, an urban oasis in the heart of London.
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
11.4 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
46 Noel Rd
11.6 km
Explore the architectural diversity and cultural richness of London at 46 Noel Rd, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
11.7 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, a unique blend of nature, history, and community nestled in the heart of London.
Shoreditch Church
11.7 km
Explore Shoreditch’s historic Palladian church, a sanctuary of Shakespearean theatre heritage and architectural grandeur in vibrant East London.
Caithness House
11.8 km
Experience the vibrant residential life of London at Caithness House, a modern flat complex perfect for tourists seeking comfort and convenience.
Arnold Circus
11.8 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
things to do in london
12.1 km
Discover the incredible history, culture, and culinary delights of London, a must-visit destination for every traveler seeking adventure and inspiration.
Trip Turkey
12.1 km
Discover Turkey's rich history and breathtaking landscapes with expertly guided tours from Trip Turkey, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Brick Ln
12.2 km
East London's ever-evolving cultural heart, where centuries of immigration, street art, and multicultural heritage converge on a single vibrant street.
Shoreditch
12.2 km
East London's creative epicenter where street art, independent culture, and culinary innovation define urban cool.
Camden Gardens
12.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Camden Gardens, a serene park in London, perfect for picnics, strolls, and unwinding amidst nature.
Places Camden
12.3 km
Discover the eclectic charm of Camden, London - a vibrant hub of markets, music, and multicultural cuisine.
Bunhill Fields Burial Ground
12.3 km
Discover Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, a historical cemetery in London, offering a peaceful escape and the final resting place of literary legends.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pymmes Park
2.9 km
Historic green oasis with a scenic lake, Victorian gardens, and diverse sports facilities in the heart of Edmonton, North London.
Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
3.6 km
Experience world-class football, NFL games, concerts, and immersive tours at London’s cutting-edge Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Tottenham Hotspur Football Club
3.6 km
Historic Tottenham Hotspur Football Club at Lilywhite House, London – home to legendary football achievements and passionate North London spirit.
Tottenham Marshes
3.6 km
Explore Tottenham Marshes, a serene semi-natural wetland rich in wildlife and history, just minutes from central London.
Palace Exchange Shopping Centre
4.3 km
A vibrant and accessible shopping destination in Enfield offering diverse retail, cafes, and inclusive amenities for all visitors.
Palace Gardens Shopping Centre
4.4 km
A welcoming shopping hub in Enfield offering diverse stores, accessible facilities, and a comfortable retail experience for all visitors.
Bruce Castle Museum
4.4 km
Discover Tudor heritage and local history in Tottenham’s historic Bruce Castle Museum, a hidden gem set in peaceful parkland.
Lee Valley Regional Park Authority
5.6 km
Explore the historic and vibrant Myddelton House Gardens, a serene botanical haven in the heart of Lee Valley Regional Park.
Markfield Beam Engine and Museum
5.6 km
Explore a Victorian masterpiece of steam engineering and public health history nestled in a scenic riverside park in North London.
supperclub.tube - Dining on a Tube Train
5.7 km
Dine inside a vintage Victoria Line tube carriage with a six-course Latin American tasting menu at London’s unique Supperclub.tube.
Grovelands Park
5.9 km
Historic Grovelands Park offers a tranquil lake, lush greenery, and diverse sports and play facilities in a cherished North London heritage setting.
Downhills Park
5.9 km
A spacious urban oasis in Haringey offering gardens, sports facilities, and inclusive recreation for all ages.
Capel Manor Gardens
6.0 km
Explore 30 acres of vibrant themed gardens, a mini zoo, and enchanting landscapes at Capel Manor Gardens in North London.
Southgate Green
6.5 km
Historic Southgate Green offers a leafy village atmosphere with rich heritage, charming architecture, and peaceful green spaces just north of central London.
Epping Forest District Museum
6.8 km
Discover centuries of local history and culture in a family-friendly museum with interactive exhibits and a peaceful garden in Waltham Abbey.
Essential places to dine
Behind Restaurant
10.1 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Da Terra Restaurant
11.0 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Brawn
11.4 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
The Clove Club
11.7 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
11.7 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Nomadic community
12.0 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Lyle's
12.0 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
The Parcel Yard, King's Cross
12.4 km
A stylish, light‑filled pub in a historic King’s Cross goods depot, serving seasonal British classics and craft drinks just steps from Platform 9¾.
The Lost Elephant's Kitchen
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of London at The Lost Elephant's Kitchen - your destination for delightful bistro dining in the heart of the city.
Rossopomodoro Camden
12.5 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and classic Italian dishes in the vibrant heart of Camden, London.
Hatche Bistro Grill & Bar
12.5 km
Family-owned Mediterranean bistro with charcoal-grilled specialties and warm hospitality on Potters Bar High Street.
Mildreds Camden
12.5 km
Discover vibrant international vegan cuisine and lively atmosphere at Mildreds Camden, a cornerstone of London’s plant-based dining scene.
wagamama camden
12.5 km
Fresh Japanese-inspired dishes and vibrant communal dining in the heart of Camden’s eclectic market scene.
Daphne Restaurant
12.6 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Il Sugo
12.6 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nook Shop
8.2 km
A chic, eco-conscious lifestyle boutique offering curated gifts and design treasures in the heart of Stoke Newington.
Little Paris Store
8.4 km
Discover vintage French charm and eclectic home and fashion treasures in the heart of Crouch End at Little Paris Store.
Triangle Store
8.5 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
10.3 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Hoxton Street Monster Supplies
11.3 km
Explore the enchanting Hoxton Street Monster Supplies, a whimsical gift shop in London filled with unique monster-themed treasures and delightful surprises.
Camden Passage, Islington
11.6 km
Explore Camden Passage in Islington: A Vintage Market Paradise with Unique Shops, Cafes, and Artisanal Food Delights.
Luna & Curious
11.8 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Canopy Market
12.1 km
Historic Victorian market hall reviving King's Cross with independent food, craft, and community every weekend.
Unique Gifts
12.1 km
A compact London gift shop filled with original, handpicked presents and quirky souvenirs for those who love something different.
Pop Up Luxury Shop
12.1 km
Exclusive, curated luxury shopping in a stylish London pop-up setting blending fashion innovation with boutique charm.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
12.1 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
Coal Drops Yard
12.2 km
Where Victorian industrial heritage meets contemporary shopping and dining in the heart of King’s Cross.
Backyard Market
12.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
The Truman Brewery Markets
12.3 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
12.3 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Burnt Faith Brandy House
4.2 km
Discover London's first dedicated brandy distillery and bar, blending innovative spirits with bold BBQ in a vibrant East London setting.
Behind This Wall
9.0 km
Discover Hackney’s cozy basement bar with bespoke cocktails, vintage sounds, and an intimate atmosphere that invites you to savor every sip.
The Bar People
10.3 km
Expert cocktail bar and event specialists in Theydon Bois, blending bespoke drinks with professional event management for unforgettable celebrations.
Little Bat
10.7 km
Discover Little Bat, a stylish Islington cocktail bar with creative drinks, eclectic decor, and a standout small plates menu by chef James Cochran.
Laki Kane Cocktail Bar & Thai Restaurant Islington
11.0 km
Escape to a vibrant tropical oasis in Islington with Laki Kane’s handcrafted rum cocktails, Caribbean-inspired cuisine, and immersive island vibes.
Satan's Whiskers
11.1 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
11.3 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
The Sun Tavern
11.4 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
TT
11.5 km
Innovative wood-fired Mediterranean small plates and cocktails in a stylish Shoreditch venue with a vibrant rooftop terrace.
Happiness Forgets
11.7 km
Discover expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, candlelit basement bar with a welcoming no-standing policy in the heart of Hoxton Square.
Nikkis Bar - Shoreditch
11.7 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for its bottomless brunch, drag shows, and nostalgic party vibes in a colorful, tropical-inspired setting.
Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
11.7 km
Lively Shoreditch cocktail bar famed for pink neon vibes, creative drinks, and unforgettable themed brunches.
Shoreditch Balls
11.7 km
Indoor crazy golf, cocktails, and live entertainment combine for a fun-filled night out in Shoreditch’s vibrant heart.
Sunset Bar
11.8 km
A stylish Shoreditch basement bar offering cocktails, late-night parties, and private events in London’s vibrant creative district.
Callooh Callay
11.8 km
Discover the quirky charm and inventive cocktails of Callooh Callay, Shoreditch’s hidden gem with a secret lounge and playful spirit.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
