Boating information for the Royal Military Canal in Kent.
The Royal Military Canal begins near Folkestone, passing through the Cinque Ports of Hythe and Rye on route to Cliff End near Hastings.
Boating on the Royal Military Canal
We manage the Royal Military Canal between West Hythe Dam and Iden Lock. You will need to register your boat with us before using this stretch of waterway.
There is a small annual charge to use your boat on this section of the Royal Military Canal. Access is restricted to unpowered boats only.
Where does it go?
The Royal Military Canal flows for 28 miles between Seabrook near Folkestone and Cliff End near Hastings, following the old cliff line bordering Romney Marsh
An important environmental site
The canal is an important environmental site. We use it to manage water levels on Romney Marsh and Walland Marsh.
It is also important for fish and other wildlife, passing through several Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).
Public footpath
There is a public footpath running the entire length of the canal via Hythe, West Hythe, Bonnington, Bilsington, Ruckinge, Hamstreet, Warehorne, Kenardington, Appledore, Rye and Winchelsea.
