The Basingstoke Canal Society is hosting a major canal community festival in Woking on Saturday, 18 April, taking place at Boundary Road Recreation Ground (Spantons Wharf) in Woking from 12 noon to 4 pm. This family-friendly event celebrates the heritage of the Basingstoke Canal with boat trips, live demonstrations, local traders, entertainment and archive displays.
Located only a short walk along the towpath from The Lightbox Gallery, the site is easy to access on foot, by bike or by boat.
Organiser’s Comment
“We have over 30 stalls and exhibits confirmed, including our archivist team, wildlife charities and local bakers (including from Ash Vale). We will be showing our 60th Anniversary short film, and there will be rides, games, food and coffee. Kitty will operate a shuttle service from the town wharf for those who prefer not to walk.”
Arrive by Boat with a Shuttle Service from Woking Town Wharf
Visitors can travel to the festival in style. The Society’s trip boat, Kitty, will run a free shuttle service from Woking Town Wharf, giving guests a memorable way to arrive along the canal without needing to walk.
Historic Canal Celebrations at Spantons Wharf
Spantons Wharf is home to the 50th Anniversary Restoration Plaque, making it the perfect setting to celebrate the canal’s importance to the local community. Visitors will be able to explore:
- Archive displays curated by the Society’s archivist team
- A dedicated tent with historic photographs and documents
- Publications, guides and souvenirs available to browse and buy
A highlight of the day will be the introduction and naming of the new electric trip boat, Kitty II, which represents the Society’s continued commitment to sustainable canal use.
On Water Activities and Boat Demonstrations
The festival will feature a range of water-based activities, including:
- Kayaking demonstrations
- A working demonstration of the Conver weed-cutting boat
- A display of work boats and leisure craft moored along the towpath
- A warm welcome for anyone arriving by kayak or paddleboard
The Conver boat plays an important role in controlling Hydrocotyle (marsh pennywort), an invasive plant that can impact the canal environment.
Over 30 Local Stalls, Food, Crafts and Entertainment
More than 30 stalls and exhibits will take part in the festival, bringing together community groups, wildlife organisations and local traders. Visitors can enjoy:
- Fresh baked goods from Butlers Bakery in Ash Vale
- Quality food and coffee from Myrtle and May
- Wildlife and conservation charity stalls
- Displays and information from local organisations
Families can also look forward to:
- Traditional fairground rides
- Games and children’s activities
- A showing of the Society’s 60th Anniversary short film
There is plenty to see and do, making it an ideal day out for families, canal enthusiasts and the wider Woking community.
Event Location
The festival will take place at Boundary Road Recreation Ground, Boundary Road, Woking GU21 5BT. This area is also known as Spantons Wharf along the Basingstoke Canal. The site is only a short walk from The Lightbox and is easily accessible on foot, by bicycle or by arriving via the shuttle boat service from Woking Town Wharf.
Why Visit the Basingstoke Canal Festival
This canal-side celebration is a great opportunity to:
- Support local businesses and charities
- Learn about the history of the Basingstoke Canal
- Enjoy a free family day out in Woking
- Experience boating and heritage demonstrations
- Celebrate the canal’s restoration and environmental work
Event Details
Date: Saturday 18 April
Time: 12 pm to 4 pm
Location: Boundary Road Recreation Ground (Spantons Wharf), Woking
Shuttle Boat: Free service from Woking Town Wharf operated by Kitty
Entry: Free community event
Spring 2026 Newsletter Update
The Basingstoke Canal Society has released its Spring 2026 Update, providing members and supporters with important news about current projects, community events and preparations for the organisation’s 60th anniversary. The latest edition of the Basingstoke Canal News (Issue 288) highlights progress across the canal, ongoing volunteer efforts and upcoming activities for the year ahead. To explore the complete newsletter and learn more about ongoing projects, events and volunteer opportunities, read the full Spring 2026 Update using the link: Spring 2026 BCN Update (PDF)