Canals

Canals were built to carry Britain's goods 200 years ago, long before the advent of railways and motorways. Time moves on and, sadly, commercial boats and barges have all but disappeared, but the waterways still retain their charm and character.

Canals now have a new role - providing leisure and recreational opportunities for many people - walkers, anglers, canoeists, canal cruisers and many others. The Kennet and Avon Canal which runs through West Wiltshire is one of the most beautiful and best loved lengths of waterway in Britain.

Canals - History

Because of their age, the canals are abound with interesting structures. In fact you will find more listed buildings on the canals than anywhere else in Britain. British Waterways (external site, opens in new window), who look after the canals in this country, are very conscious of looking after their heritage and the improvements are all built so that they do not clash with the older environment.

Most canals have towpaths that were used by the horses which pulled the boats. They are very pleasant to walk and are teaming with wild flowers and animals, but remember that ducks and swans expect to be fed ! You can also take bikes with you to use the towpaths and local bye-ways to explore the countryside around the canals.

Other useful websites can be found at:

Association of Inland Navigation Authorities (external site, opens in new window) AINA represents the inland navigation authorities of the United Kingdom.

Broads Authority (external site, opens in new window) The Broads is Britain's largest wetland and is part of the family of National Parks.

British Marine Federation (external site, opens in new window) Website for the British boating industry's trade association, the British Marine Federation

British Waterways (external site, opens in new window) British Waterways is the public body responsible for maintaining and developing the waterways and their heritage for everyone to enjoy.

Environment Agency (external site, opens in new window) The leading public body responsible for protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales

Inland Waterways Amenity Advisory Council (IWAAC) (external site, opens in new window) A statutory body set up under the 1968 Transport Act to advise the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Scottish Executive and British Waterways (BW) on strategic policy for the use and development of the 2000 miles of inland waterways managed by BW.

Inland Waterways Association (external site, opens in new window) Founded in 1946 - over 50 years of successful campaigning for the Inland Waterways of Great Britain

National Association of Boat Owners (external site, opens in new window) The National Association of Boat Owners is dedicated to promoting the interests and concerns of boaters on Britain's Canals and Rivers.

Residential Boat Owners' Association (external site, opens in new window) The Residential Boat Owners' Association exists to act in the interests of boat dwellers. Maybe you'd like to live afloat but you don't know where to start, our FAQ covers the most common questions we get asked about living on a boat. You can also find details of our work and a diary of events.

The Waterways Trust (external site, opens in new window) Our task is to promote the widest possible public awareness and enjoyment of the UK's waterways. Working in partnership with individuals, communities and organisations, to conserve, restore, improve and interpret all aspects of waterways.

Towpath Action Group (external site, opens in new window) Campaigning for better access on the towpaths of the country's canals

Waterways Liaison Service On-Line (external site, opens in new window) Bringing together waterway related organisations to promote their events to a wider audience.