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Very rural and picturesque along most of its route.
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Lock Gates
Tunnel AqueductThe Fossdyke Navigation, a historic waterway stretching through the heart of Lincolnshire, England, is a magnet for boaters and tourists alike. This ancient canal, believed to be the oldest in the country, offers a unique blend of history, leisure, and scenic tranquillity. For those seeking a memorable boating holiday or considering life aboard a narrowboat, widebeam, or cruiser, the Fossdyke is an exceptional choice.
Today, the Fossdyke is a vibrant waterway frequented by modern boaters. Narrowboats, widebeams, and cruisers navigate its calm waters, providing a haven for holidaymakers, live-aboard residents, and casual day-trippers. The canal’s manageable length and connectivity to other waterways, such as the River Trent and the River Witham, make it a favoured route for both short and extended journeys.
Boaters: Narrowboats, cruisers, and widebeams navigate its serene waters, enjoying both urban and rural landscapes.
Walkers and Cyclists: Towpaths provide scenic routes for exploration, offering views of the waterway and surrounding countryside.
Anglers: The canal is a popular fishing spot, teeming with species like bream, roach, and pike.
Holidaymakers: Families, couples, and solo travellers relish the relaxed pace of canal life, discovering local attractions at every turn.
Holiday Boat Hire
The Fossdyke is ideal for holidaymakers looking to explore Lincolnshire by water. Several marinas and hire companies offer narrowboats and cruisers for rent, allowing visitors to enjoy a leisurely pace while uncovering the canal’s hidden gems. The gentle waters and minimal locks make it a perfect destination for boating novices and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Living Afloat
The Fossdyke also attracts live-aboard boaters seeking a peaceful lifestyle. Its proximity to urban amenities in Lincoln and rural beauty ensures a balanced blend of convenience and serenity. With its historical significance and vibrant boating community, the Fossdyke is a sought-after location for those looking to call the waterway home.
Boaters travelling along the Fossdyke Navigation are spoiled for choice with attractions, dining, and historical landmarks. Here are some must-visit spots along the route:
1. Lincoln
At the heart of the Fossdyke lies Lincoln, a city steeped in history. Boaters can moor up at Brayford Pool, a bustling marina surrounded by restaurants, bars, and cafes. Key attractions include:
Lincoln Cathedral: A stunning Gothic masterpiece dominating the city skyline.
Lincoln Castle: Home to one of the few surviving original copies of the Magna Carta.
Steep Hill: A charming, cobbled street lined with independent shops and eateries.
2. Torksey Lock
At the western end of the Fossdyke, Torksey Lock connects the navigation to the River Trent. This historic lock, with its three sets of gates, is a unique engineering marvel. The lock area is popular for fishing and offers a tranquil spot for a picnic or a rest stop.
3. Saxilby
The charming village of Saxilby is a favourite mooring spot for boaters. With its friendly atmosphere and riverside pubs, it’s an excellent place to unwind. Notable venues include:
The Anglers Inn: A welcoming pub with hearty meals and refreshing drinks.
The Sun Inn: A cosy spot offering classic pub fare and real ales.
4. Burton Waters
For those seeking a touch of modern luxury, Burton Waters is a marina development offering high-end dining and amenities. The area is home to waterside cafes, boutique shops, and residential properties with picturesque views.
5. Nature and Countryside
The Fossdyke’s peaceful stretches of water are framed by Lincolnshire’s rolling countryside. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot herons, kingfishers, and otters along the towpaths, while walkers and cyclists enjoy well-maintained trails.
The canal offers plenty of opportunities for indulgence. From traditional pubs to gourmet dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate:
The Pyewipe Inn (near Lincoln): A historic canalside pub known for its rustic charm and delicious meals.
The Woodcocks (Burton Waters): A family-friendly pub offering a wide menu and picturesque outdoor seating.
The Royal William IV - Pub & Kitchen (Lincoln): A quaint riverside, located waterside of Brayford pool inn with excellent food and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Fossdyke Navigation is not just about boating; it’s a journey through history. Originally constructed by the Romans around AD 120, the canal reflects centuries of engineering and cultural heritage.
Plan Your Fossdyke Adventure
Whether you’re hiring a narrowboat for a weekend escape or considering a life afloat, the Fossdyke Navigation offers an unparalleled experience. With its rich history, scenic routes, and welcoming communities, it’s a waterway that promises adventure, relaxation, and a connection to the past. Discover the charm of Lincolnshire’s oldest canal and create memories that will last a lifetime.
The Fossdyke Navigation, situated in Lincolnshire, England, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest canals in the country, with its origins tracing back to Roman Britain. This ancient waterway, spanning centuries of history, has evolved from a vital trade route to a beloved destination for leisure activities.
The Fossdyke was originally constructed around AD 120 by the Romans, connecting the River Trent to the city of Lincoln, then known as Lindum Colonia. At the time, Lincoln was a prominent Roman settlement, and the canal was hand-dug to facilitate the movement of goods and people. Its construction was an engineering feat, enabling trade routes that extended across Roman Britain and beyond.
The Fossdyke served as a crucial artery for transporting goods such as pottery, grain, and building materials to and from Lincoln. However, following the Roman withdrawal from Britain in the 5th century, the canal fell into disrepair, with silting and neglect rendering it unusable for centuries.
The canal’s fortunes were revived during the medieval period. In 1121, under the reign of King Henry I, the Fossdyke was dredged and restored, a project led by Bishop Alexander of Lincoln. This revitalisation turned the Fossdyke into a significant trade route once again, particularly for transporting wool—an essential commodity of medieval England—from Lincoln to the Humber estuary’s ports.
In subsequent centuries, responsibility for maintaining the Fossdyke shifted. By the early 17th century, King James I handed control of the canal to the city of Lincoln. In 1671, its navigability was further enhanced with the addition of Torksey Lock, enabling better water level management and improving its functionality for cargo transport.
The Fossdyke Navigation saw further enhancements during the Canal Age of the 18th century. Prominent engineer John Grundy, known for his work on waterways like the Trent and Mersey Canal, oversaw additional improvements. These modifications modernised the Fossdyke, allowing it to accommodate the increasing demands of industrial transportation. For a time, the canal thrived as a commercial route, carrying coal, stone, and agricultural products.
Competition and Decline
The arrival of the railway in the 19th century marked a turning point for the Fossdyke. The convenience and speed of rail transport diverted much of the freight traffic away from the canal, leading to a gradual decline in its commercial importance. However, the Fossdyke remained in use for transporting goods into the mid-20th century, with its historical significance preventing complete abandonment.
The mid-20th century saw a shift in focus from industrial use to leisure and recreation. Restoration efforts in the 1960's revived the Fossdyke as a navigable waterway for pleasure craft. Today, it serves as a vital part of Lincolnshire’s waterway network, connecting Lincoln to Torksey Lock, where it meets the River Trent, and to the River Witham, which leads to Boston. The River Witham’s five locks further extend the navigational opportunities for boaters.
At Torksey Lock, an innovative design featuring three sets of gates enables operation regardless of tidal conditions, ensuring smooth passage for modern users.
The Fossdyke Navigation Today
In the present day, the Fossdyke is a popular destination for boaters, walkers, anglers, and cyclists. Its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings make it a favoured spot for narrowboat enthusiasts navigating between Lincoln and the River Trent. The canal’s well-maintained towpaths attract walkers and cyclists seeking scenic routes steeped in history, while anglers enjoy the abundance of fish along its length.
The Fossdyke Navigation also plays a role in local tourism, offering access to the historic city of Lincoln with its iconic cathedral and castle, as well as the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. Events and festivals along the waterway draw visitors year-round, enhancing its appeal as a recreational hub.
A Living Monument to History
The Fossdyke Navigation stands as a testament to Roman ingenuity and the enduring efforts of the people of Lincolnshire to preserve and adapt their historic waterways. From its Roman origins to its role in medieval trade and industrial transport, the Fossdyke reflects the changing needs of the communities it has served. Today, it continues to enrich the region, blending heritage with leisure and serving as a cherished link to the past.
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