Ashby Canal
engineered by Robert Whitworth, 22 miles long with zero locks

History and General Knowledge of the Ashby Canal

Ashby Canal: A Journey through History

Although 31 miles in length, due to coal mining subsidence between Moira and Snareston, there is only 22 miles of navigable canal remaining.

Historical Origins
The Ashby Canal, originally known as the Ashby-de-la-Zouch Canal, was constructed during the late 18th century. It was designed to link the thriving mining and industrial areas of North West Leicestershire, specifically the coalfields around Moira, to the growing towns and industries of the Midlands.

The Engineer Behind It
The canal's construction was overseen by the eminent canal engineer Robert Whitworth. Whitworth was a pioneer in canal design and played a significant role in the development of several UK canals. His work on the Ashby Canal ensured that it was engineered to high standards, incorporating innovative features of the time.

Industrial Purpose
The Ashby Canal was primarily an industrial canal, established to transport coal and raw materials like limestone, timber, and iron to the burgeoning industries of the Midlands. It played a crucial role in powering the engines of the Industrial Revolution, driving economic growth in the region. 

The Ashby Canal played a role in the transport of coal and other raw materials during the Industrial Revolution, and was an important factor in the growth of the local economy. The canal was also used for the transport of goods such as timber, iron, and corn, as well as passengers and livestock.

Transporting Goods
Coal mining was a key industry served by the canal, and it facilitated the transportation of this vital resource to the markets and factories of the Midlands. Additionally, the canal played a central role in moving other goods like lime for agriculture, which was instrumental in improving crop yields. The last profitable commercial owner of the canal was Midland Railway who managed to maintain a profit into the early 1890's after-which it declined.

Decline and Restoration
As with many canals in the UK, the Ashby Canal saw a decline in the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to competition from railways and road transport. However, its significance was recognised, and restoration efforts began in the mid-20th century. Today, the canal is a navigable waterway once more, blending history with contemporary use.

However, the canal faced increasing competition from the railways in the 19th century, and as a result, its use declined. The last commercial traffic on the canal was in the 1960s, and it was officially closed to navigation in 1970.

In recent years, there have been several restoration projects aimed at reopening the Ashby Canal to navigation. Today, the canal is used for recreational purposes such as boating, fishing, and walking, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The canal is also a valuable habitat for a range of wildlife, and has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Unique Features
The Ashby Canal boasts a number of unique features that make it stand out among the UK's canals. It's known for its tranquil, lock-free nature, offering an uninterrupted journey through some of England's most beautiful countryside. The distinctive 'snail's-pace' winding holes, designed for the horse-drawn boats of its era, can still be observed along the route.

Leisure and Recreation
The Ashby Canal is not just an industrial relic; it's a leisure and recreation hotspot. Boaters, walkers, cyclists, and anglers are drawn to its idyllic surroundings. The canal offers a peaceful and charming retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The Ashby Canal, a picturesque waterway in England's heartland, is steeped in history and offers a unique blend of beauty and function. In this article, we'll explore the rich history and general knowledge surrounding the Ashby Canal.

Snareston Tunnel, 250 yards long, is the last navigable feature before the end of the canal which is just 700 yards further.

In Conclusion
The Ashby Canal is more than just a historic waterway; it's a living testament to the industrial heritage of the UK. It stands as a reminder of an era when canals were the lifeblood of the nation's industry, transporting raw materials and goods across the countryside.

As you explore the Ashby Canal and its surroundings, you're not just enjoying the beauty of nature; you're stepping into the past, experiencing the legacy of the Industrial Revolution, and embracing the serenity of one of England's most delightful canals.