Crinan Canal to Ardrishaig: What A Great Cycle Ride

Crinan Canal in Argyll & Bute

I have driven by the Crinan Canal on several occasions this year and even stopped overnight in Ardrishaig whilst on route to Tarbert to look at the castle. I always new I would cycle the canal. I did not expect it to be so nice a route.

Picture this:

A charming 9-mile stretch of water with 15 locks on route, cutting through the heart of Scotland’s breathtaking Argyll countryside. That’s the Crinan Canal for you – a hidden gem that’s been around since 1801, linking the quaint villages of Ardrishaig and Crinan.

Back in the day, this canal was a godsend for commercial ships, offering a shortcut that bypassed the treacherous waters around the Kintyre Peninsula. Fast forward to today, and it’s become a playground for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

There’s something special about the Crinan Canal. It’s intimate, you know? There are some boats that barely fit in the canal, and you’re surrounded by Scotland’s lush, green landscape at every turn.

But here’s the kicker – you’re not just along for the ride. Those 15 locks? They’re all operated by hand. That’s right, the crew become the lock keepers for your journey. Pushing those big wooden gates open and closed, working the sluice gates – the whole nine yards. It’s a proper workout! Around three of the locks are assisted by the Canal owners as they operate road sections that need to be manned and opened correctly.

The Crinan Canal gives you a chance to slow down, to really soak in the beauty of Scotland, and to connect with the waterway in a way you just can’t on bigger, more modern canals.

So if you’re ever in Scotland and fancy a bike ride or even a boating adventure that’s a bit different, give the Crinan Canal a go.

There will be a lot of images from the Canal here as it warrants them. I have also added a couple of videos so you can see the yachts and staff in action with the locks.

If you have time, stop off at Ardrishaig and cycle the Crinan Canal. you will not be disappointed.

The crinal canal starts at Ardrishaig and runs all the way to the sea at Crinan. It is a very pleasant bike ride there and back for all levels of cyclists and allows you to enjoy a quiet gravel route along the canal and to watch the yachts going up and down the river.

what is the crinan canal

Today, the Crinan Canal is primarily used by recreational boaters and fishing vessels.

The Crinan Canal is often called “Britain’s most beautiful shortcut.” It has played a big role in Scottish maritime history for over 200 years. It went from a vital waterway for trade to a pretty route for tourists and recreational boaters.

Costs to Travel The Crinan Canal

For a yacht to travel through the crinan canal it costs around £15.80 a metre. A return journey booking reduces the cost for both ways. It is not only the costs that need to be considered. There is also a system in place where the yachts have to wait in line to go through the locks, especially the road locks. If you trying to go through quickly you could be disappointed as the lock keepers have number and places for each yacht. So there is no pushing in when yachts are already waiting in line to go through.

How many locks are on the Crinan Canal?

The Crinan Canal has 15 locks and is crossed by seven bridges: six swing bridges and a retractable bridge. Stone for the 15 locks was brought from Mull, the Isle of Arran and Morvern. From Ardrishaig, three locks raise the canal’s 4-mile-long (6-kilometre) east reach to 32 ft (10 m) above sea level.

How big can a boat be in the Crinan Canal?

There are width and length restrictions. The max length is 88 feet, beam is 20 feet, and draft is 2.7 meters.

Key points in the canal’s history:

Planning and construction:

In 1771, James Watt surveyed the area to find a course for the canal.

The Crinan Canal Act was passed in 1793.

Construction began in 1794 under the design of civil engineer John Rennie.

The canal was opened in 1801, two years later than planned and over budget.

Early challenges:

In 1805, a section of the canal bank failed near Ardrishaig, requiring a course alteration.

In 1811, a violent storm burst the main reservoir, causing significant damage.

Improvements and management:

In 1816, Thomas Telford was asked to redesign parts of the canal due to ongoing problems.

The government took control of the canal from the original company headed by the Duke of Argyll.

Between 1930 and 1932, new sea locks were built at either end to improve accessibility.

Usage and impact:

By 1854, the canal was carrying 33,000 passengers, 27,000 sheep, and 2,000 cattle annually.

Queen Victoria journeyed through the canal in 1847. This made it a popular tourist attraction.

The canal became known as the “Royal Route,” with passenger numbers reaching 44,000 by 1857.

Places Nearby Worth A Visit

Here are 5 local places near Ardrishaig and the Crinan Canal that are worth visiting:

1. Crinan Canal: The Crinan Canal itself is a must-visit attraction. It’s described as John Rennie’s masterpiece and offers a delightful experience. You can cycle along its towpath, with bike hire facilities available in Lochgilphead.
2. Kilmartin Glen: Located near the Crinan Canal, Kilmartin Glen is known for its rich historical significance. It features numerous ancient monuments and is a great place to explore Scotland’s prehistoric past.
3. Crinan Ferry Beach: If you’re looking for a coastal experience, Crinan Ferry Beach is a nearby option for a relaxing day by the sea.
4. Tarbert: This charming village is ideal for exploring the Kintyre Peninsula. It features Tarbert Castle ruins, which offer great views of the harbour and Loch Fyne. The village also has excellent restaurants, gift shops, and galleries around its pretty harbour.
5. Crarae Garden: Another beautiful garden within an hour’s drive from the Crinan area. It’s mentioned as a great place to stop off when traveling along the A83 on the banks of Loch Fyne