Day Trips From the Towpath: Local Markets, Cafés & Curiosities
The Grand Union Canal around Apsley is full of character, charm, and surprising little discoveries that turn a simple walk or narrowboat cruise into a full, memorable day out. Along the towpath, you’ll find independent cafés, artisan treats, lively markets, and unexpected curiosities that bring life and colour to Hertfordshire’s waterways.
Whether you’re strolling along the canal or enjoying a peaceful adventure aboard Tilly — our 30-foot semi-traditional narrowboat based at Apsley Marina — these towpath treasures help create a day rich with flavour, history, and slow-travel joy.
Local Markets Along the Grand Union Canal
Hemel Hempstead Market
Just a short walk or cruise from Apsley, this well-known market is perfect for picking up fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, and picnic supplies. It’s ideal for boaters preparing for a day on Tilly.
St Albans Charter Market
One of the oldest and most vibrant markets in the UK, St Albans hosts over 100 stalls with artisan food, crafts, antiques, and street vendors. It’s an excellent extended day trip after a relaxing cruise.
Apsley Community Artisan Events
Throughout the year, Apsley features pop-up makers' stalls and community events showcasing handmade items, crafts, and local baked treats — all perfect additions to a canal adventure.
Independent Cafés Around Apsley Lock
Here are the real, locally loved cafés right around Apsley Lock — each worth a visit before, during, or after your canal trip.
Darcy's Bar & Restaurant
Located just a short stroll from Apsley Lock, Darcys is a warm and stylish independent café known for its excellent coffee, homemade cakes, and friendly service. The cosy décor and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for a pre-cruise breakfast or a mid-walk treat along the towpath.
Union Coffee & Dough
A favourite among locals, Union Coffee & Dough offers artisan coffee, handmade doughnuts, pastries, and light bites. Their doughnuts are especially popular, making them perfect to take onboard Tilly for a sweet treat as you cruise through Hertfordshire’s peaceful canals.
RONAV Cafe & Bistro
Ronav Café brings a modern feel to the Apsley area with speciality drinks, brunch dishes, smoothies, and beautifully presented desserts. It’s a great stop for boaters wanting something a little more indulgent before setting off on their adventure. The calm, contemporary atmosphere pairs perfectly with a slow day on the water.
These cafés bring real character to Apsley’s canal community, offering a mix of comfort, warmth, and artisan flavours just steps from the towpath.
Curiosities, Antiques & Hidden Gems Near the Towpath
Frogmore Paper Mill
A short walk from Apsley Lock lies the world’s first mechanised paper mill — a fascinating heritage site offering tours, demonstrations, and hands-on craft activities.
Berkhamsted Antiques & Collectables
If your journey takes you further along the canal, Berkhamsted is ideal for antique hunters. Its independent shops are full of retro furniture, rare books, and unique curios waiting to be discovered.
Natural Towpath Wonders
With herons, kingfishers, moorhens, and seasonal wildflowers, the Grand Union Canal is rich with natural charm. Many visitors say spotting a kingfisher while cruising on Tilly is the highlight of their entire day.
Pairing Your Towpath Adventures With a Trip on Tilly
A relaxing towpath wander or café visit becomes even more memorable when combined with a peaceful cruise aboard Tilly. Based at Apsley Marina, Tilly offers a slow, scenic experience perfect for families, couples, friends, or anyone seeking a calm day out.
Popular guest itineraries include:
Morning coffee at Darcys or Union Coffee & Dough
Boarding Tilly for a tranquil cruise along the Grand Union Canal
Stopping at Boxmoor or Berkhamsted for antiques or cake
Returning to Apsley for a late afternoon drink or dessert at Ronav
Learn more about Tilly here:
Hire Tilly for a day or evening trip
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Conclusion
The towpaths around Apsley offer everything from handmade treats and artisan cafés to antique treasures and natural beauty. Pairing these small discoveries with a peaceful journey aboard Tilly creates a perfect Hertfordshire day out — relaxing, flavourful, and full of character.
To plan your own towpath adventure and explore availability, visit Canal Boat Day Hire.