Kennet and Southcote walk

Download the Kennet and Southcote walk route leaflet

Length: 5.5 miles (9 km)

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Moderate – mostly flat, much of the walk is on grave canalside towpath.

Suitability: This walk is not suitable for wheelchair, stroller and buggy users due to canal crossing at Southcote. Towpath can be muddy in winter or even flooded after wet weather.

Start: The Oracle Shopping Centre, Riverside RG1 2AG ///winner.hero.clues

End Broad Street Mall, Oxford Road RG1 7QE ///loads.loyal.tender

Map showing Kennet and Southcote walk route.

Route highlights

A. This scenic walk begins at Oracle Riverside and follows the River Kennet south to the County Lock.

B. Pass the County Lock and follow the River Kennet south through Katesgrove and Waterloo Meadows.

C. After passing the A33, the route continues along the Kennet and Avon Canal towards Fobney Lock.

D. Continue towards the Fobney Island Wetland Nature Reserve, from there travel as far as Southcote Lock.

E. Cross the Milkmaid’s Bridge, you will head through Southcote Meadow, go under the railway line and walk into prospect park.

F. Go towards Tilehurst road and turn onto Brunswick Hill.

G. Follow along Argyle Road and Baker Street.

H. Turn left onto Russell Street and follow the road to the end.

I. Once you have reached Oxford Road turn right towards the Board Street Mall.

Places of interest on the Thames and Kennet route

Fobney Lock

Fobney Lock was built between 1718 and 1723 by engineer John Hore of Newbury, and is now part of the Kennet Navigation managed by Canal & River Trust. Nearby is a Victorian Pump House, no longer in use but still a striking example of industrial engineering.

The image shows a picturesque English canal lock system with a traditional narrowboat navigating through it. The red and black narrowboat is positioned in the lock chamber, which is constructed with white-painted lock gates and stone or concrete sides. A small green canoe or kayak can be seen entering the lock, and there appear to be a few people around the lock area, likely operating the gates or watching the boat pass through. The setting is surrounded by verdant countryside with established trees and appears to be during spring or summer given the full green foliage.
A white swan glides peacefully across a calm pond surrounded by lush green vegetation. The water reflects the cloudy sky above, creating gentle ripples around the swan. Tall reeds and grasses line the water's edge, with dense trees and foliage forming a natural backdrop. The scene captures a serene wetland environment with the solitary swan as the focal point in this tranquil natural setting.

Fobney Island

Fobney Island lies between the canal and the River Kennet. It was restored in 2011- 2013 in order to attract local wildlife. It now includes wetland, a wildflower and hay meadow, reed beds and new river features. It is home to birds, bats, water voles and otters. The reserve provides resources for learning about local nature. The area also provides a leisure facility for the people of Reading.

Last updated on 08/09/2025