Bridgwater and Taunton Canal
engineered by James Hollinsworth, 14.5 miles long with 6 locks

History and General Knowledge of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal

First used in 1827 and running from the River Parrett, that took it to the Severn Estuary, to Taunton and the River Tone.

Used commercially until 1907 the canal, unlike many others, remained in reasonable navigable condition. There was some restoration work completed between 1968 and 1994 and today the canal is used for pleasure only.

Although navigable today, the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is isolated from the main navigable network or canals and rivers.

History of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal

A man-made waterway in Somerset, England, which was constructed in the early 19th century. The canal runs for a distance of 14.5 miles, connecting the towns of Bridgwater and Taunton.

The idea of constructing a canal between Bridgwater and Taunton had been discussed as early as the 18th century, but it was not until the early 19th century that the canal was actually built. The construction of the canal began in 1822 and was completed in 1827 at a cost of approximately £120,000.

The Bridgwater and Taunton Canal was primarily built to transport coal, limestone and other heavy goods to the growing industries of the region. The canal also provided a valuable link to other waterways, including the River Tone and the Grand Western Canal, which allowed goods to be transported to other parts of the country.

In the mid-19th century, the canal faced competition from the newly constructed railway lines, which were faster and more efficient than canal transport. This led to a decline in traffic on the canal and by the early 20th century, the canal had fallen into disuse and disrepair.

In the mid-20th century, there were plans to fill in the canal and convert it into a road, but a group of local enthusiasts formed the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal Association to campaign for the restoration of the canal. Their efforts paid off, and the canal was officially reopened in 1994, following a major restoration project that took several years to complete.

Today, the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is a popular destination for boaters, walkers, and cyclists. The canal is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including otters, water voles, and kingfishers.

The restoration of the Bridgwater and Taunton Canal is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local community, who recognised the value of preserving this important piece of the region's industrial heritage. The canal is now a valuable asset to the local economy, attracting visitors from all over the country and helping to support the region's tourism industry.