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download a british waterways cycling permit
Before cycling on towpaths owned by British Waterways, you will need to obtain a free cycle permit. However, you are not required to hold a cycle permit in Scotland or London.
For more information on cycling on Scotland's canals, visit www.scottishcanals.co.uk/things-to-do/cycling.
Cyclists must follow the Towpath Code of Conduct at all times.
You can download a British Waterways permit as a PDF file. By accepting this cycle permit, you are agreeing to follow the Waterways Code, and to cycle only on those stretches of towpath classified as open to cyclists.
To download a cycle permit, fill in the form at the bottom of the page and click to agree to the terms and conditions
The Waterways Code aims to protect your own and other people's safety, to safeguard the environment, and to avoid disturbing the enjoyment of other users of the waterway and towpath. There is no public right of way for cyclists on canal towpaths, and British Waterways reserves the right to withdraw permission from users who disregard the rules.
Find a cycle route
Find local cycling routes. Simply type your postcode or nearest town into the search box below.
