Two new trail maps designed by a Stroud artist have been launched as part of a month-long event celebrating the final stage of Stroudwater canal restoration.

The Food and Farms map details a Nutshell Trail, a Vineyard Trail, an Alpaca Trail and an Icecream Trail encouraging people to explore and experience local produce.

The Walking and Cycling map gives instructions for four circular routes – a Canal Rail Trail, Cotswold Rail Trail, Stratford Park Trail and Doverow Hill Trail.

Cotswold Canals Connected launched the month-long ‘slow canal trail’ on Monday, May 10 with heritage trails, boat trips, activities and pop up performances by Stroud creatives.

“The canal is here for everyone to enjoy and is the perfect environment for people to enjoy and connect with nature," said a spokesperson.

“There is strong evidence that demonstrates the benefits of nature for our mental health and we hope our maps will provide inspiration for people whatever their level of physical fitness.”

The new maps, designed by Ruth Hickson, were launched as work kicks off to connect the Stroudwater canal to the national inland waterways network.

Stroud News and Journal: The Food and Farm trail map designed by Ruth HicksonThe Food and Farm trail map designed by Ruth Hickson

Routes includes surprise performances, an interactive light and sound installation, art exhibitions, audio posts, wildlife and heritage bingo cards and wheelchair accessible boat trips.

They take people on both traditional canal side paths, as well as some areas close to the canal but further from the towpath.

Visitors can upload stories, photos and videos taken along the routes to an online community map for others to be inspired by.

Stroud News and Journal: The Walking and Cycling trail map designed by Ruth HicksonThe Walking and Cycling trail map designed by Ruth Hickson

More information, including maps and bingo cards to download, visit the Cotwold Canals Connected website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts.