Part of the Grand Union Canal
Plans to make the river navigable to Leicester were mooted as early as 1634 but the navigation from the River Trent to Loughborough was only opened in 1778. It was extended to Leicester in 1794.
Waterways > River Soar
River Soar
The River Soar Navigation forms part of the Grand Union Canal, joining the Leicester Line of the Canal with the River Trent and the Erewash Canal.
Things to do nearby
Facts & Stats
24.1 miles
(38.8km)
The length of the River Soar that is navigable.
18 locks
1778
Year opened
The navigation from River Trent to Loughborough was opened.
Part of the Grand Union Canal
Waterway notes
Maximum boat sizes
- Length: 73′ 2″ (22.3 metres) – Bishop Meadow Lock
- Beam: 15′ (4.57 metres) – Thurmaston Lock
- Height: 7′ 6″ (2.28 metres) – Little Moorlane Arch Bridge
- Draught: 4′ (1.2 metres)
Navigation authority
Canal & River Trust
Branch
Join us
Join us and together we can continue to campaign to protect and restore the waterways you love. Become a member for as little as £36 per year – or you can choose to give more.
Love your waterways
Together we can protect and restore our waterways; the UK’s 6,500 miles of canals and rivers need your help.