THE Chilterns may be a fair distance from the sea, but that’s no excuse for not getting down to the waterside for a ramble this month.

With the Thames rushing down to London from Oxford and the slightly more sedate Grand Union Canal linking Paddington Basin in West London with Aylesbury, Milton Keynes and Birmingham, there’s no shortage of towpaths and cosy canalside cafes to explore.

Out in Berkshire, the Kennet & Avon Canal strikes west for a hundred miles from Reading, towards Newbury and Hungerford on its way to Bath and Bristol.

For wintry walks and an escape from traffic, the network provides a glorious break from office routine, with a stroll promising the opportunity to spot birds and wildlife, study industrial landmarks or just become a lazy “gongoozler” watching canal life from the towpath.

On its way through Reading, Henley, Windsor and Hampton Court, the Thames offers countless different vistas, while a canalside ramble can also leave you feeling happier and healthier.

Visit the Canal & River Trust website for maps and downloadable regional guides, as well as tips about nature spotting and details of open days and special events.