The First Navigable Waterways

The earliest navigable waterways in Britain date back to pre-Roman times, when the ancient Britons constructed canals and waterways to aid in transportation and trade. These early waterways were often constructed using natural rivers and streams, with the addition of simple locks and weirs to control water levels and aid navigation.

During the Roman occupation of Britain, several important waterways were developed, including the Fosse Way and the Icknield Way, which linked major Roman cities and settlements. The Romans also constructed canals and aqueducts, including the Lanchester Aqueduct, which was built to transport water to the Roman fort at Lanchester.

However, it was during the medieval period that water transportation in Britain really began to develop. The rivers Thames, Severn, and Trent became important trade routes, with boats carrying goods such as wool, coal, and salt. The construction of weirs and flash-locks helped to improve navigation, and major ports such as London and Bristol began to flourish.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, a number of important navigable waterways were constructed, including the River Lee Navigation, which was built to transport goods from Hertfordshire to London, and the Kennet and Avon Canal, which linked the River Kennet to the River Avon and provided a vital transportation link between London and Bristol.

The construction of the Bridgewater Canal in the mid-18th century marked the beginning of the canal age in Britain, with over 5,000 miles of canals being built across the country by the end of the 19th century.

Today, many of these early navigable waterways have been preserved and restored, providing a glimpse into Britain's rich history and heritage. They continue to play an important role in tourism and recreation, attracting visitors from around the world.