Granted, this walk is not for the faint of heart - there are ten miles (15 km) between Bath and Bradford-on-Avon. But if you're in good shape and up for the challenge then it's hard to find a more beautiful stroll along the River Avon or better way to see Bath's surrounding villages.

There are several pubs and rest stops along the way, and if you're not keen on walking the full ten miles then you can always cut it short at Bathampton (about a 45-minute walk from Bath's city centre). Regular trains between Bath and Bradford-on-Avon mean you can walk one way and get the train back. The more adventurous might even consider a canoe or water barge for an alternative way to enjoy the tranquility of the canal.

The Kennet and Avon canal towpath is a unique Georgian canal which runs through the heart of Bath. It also features the Avoncliff Aqueduct - a 100m long architectural delight in Bradford-on-Avon -  not to be missed along with the highly recommended pub which overlooks it, The Cross Guns. 

For a free audio-guided tour of the canal path featuring all kinds of history and tales, visit the Canal River and Trust website.