Hawkesbury JunctionWhere the Coventry Canal Meets the Oxford Canal

Hawkesbury Junction: A Unique Intersection of Canals

At the northernmost end of the Oxford Canal, where it connects to the Coventry Canal, lies the historic Hawkesbury Junction. This iconic spot, often referred to as Sutton Stop, takes its nickname from the Sutton family, who served as lock keepers in the 19th century.

The Stop Lock: Solving an Unintended Challenge
When the Oxford and Coventry Canals converged, a small yet significant difference in water levels emerged. To address this, a stop lock was constructed. Interestingly, this lock boasts the smallest elevation change in the entire canal network, with a rise or fall of just 7 inches. Its purpose was to prevent water from the Oxford Canal flowing into the Coventry Canal, preserving valuable resources for both waterways.

The Historic Engine House
Positioned along the Coventry Canal is the site of a former engine house. This building once housed a Newcomen steam engine, famously named Lady Godiva. Installed in 1821, the engine played a vital role in pumping water from the nearby Coventry Colliery into the canal. Lady Godiva continued her work until 1913, standing as a symbol of industrial ingenuity. After nearly five decades of inactivity, the engine was removed in 1960 and now resides in the Dartmouth Museum, preserving its legacy for future generations.

The Junction Bridge: A Masterpiece of Canal Engineering
Spanning 50 feet across the towpath gap, the Junction Bridge is another remarkable feature of Hawkesbury Junction. Built by the Coventry Canal Company in 1837, the bridge was crafted at the Britannia Foundry in Derby. Its elegant design and robust construction have made it a lasting landmark, admired by boaters and visitors alike.

Hawkesbury Junction: Where History and Functionality Meet
Hawkesbury Junction is more than a connection between two canals; it’s a place where innovation, history, and practicality converge. From the ingenious stop lock to the industrious Lady Godiva and the enduring Junction Bridge, this site offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of Britain’s waterways while continuing to serve boaters in modern times.

Hawkesbury Junction, a gem for canal enthusiasts, marks the point where the Coventry Canal connects to the Oxford Canal. Located just five miles north of Coventry Basin, this historic junction has long been a favourite stop for boaters. Known locally as Sutton Stop, a name derived from the Sutton family who served as lock-keepers for many years, the junction is steeped in history and remains a bustling hub for modern-day narrowboaters.

The History of Hawkesbury Junction
The history of Hawkesbury Junction dates back to the late 18th century, during the boom of Britain’s canal network. The Coventry Canal was completed in 1769, followed by the Oxford Canal in 1790. This junction became a critical link, facilitating the transportation of coal, iron, and other goods from the industrial Midlands to London and beyond.

Originally, the two canals operated separately and charged tolls for passing boats. The stop lock at the junction served as a point of transition, ensuring that water levels between the two canals remained consistent. Boaters would often find themselves waiting to navigate this lock, giving rise to a lively canal-side community.

For years, the junction was affectionately referred to as Sutton Stop, named after the Sutton family, who were instrumental in managing the lock. Their presence at the junction became synonymous with its operation, making the name a lasting part of the area’s identity.

Boater Facilities at Hawkesbury Junction

Modern-day Hawkesbury Junction is well-equipped to cater to the needs of narrowboaters. Facilities include:

Water Points: Convenient locations for filling up water tanks.
Elan Disposal and Refuse Disposal: Essential services for boaters available at the junction.
Mooring Spaces: Plenty of mooring spots for short and long stays, allowing boaters to relax and explore the area.
Fuel and Gas: Available nearby for restocking essentials. 1.5 miles north (on the Coventry Canal) at Star Line Boats
The junction is an ideal place to pause during a journey, with easy access to nearby amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Pubs and Eateries Near the Junction
Hawkesbury Junction is known for its vibrant canal-side culture, and no visit is complete without a stop at its popular pub:

The Greyhound Inn (in Hawksbury Junction Basin)
This iconic pub is a staple of Hawkesbury Junction, celebrated for its warm ambience and traditional charm. Located right on the canal, the Greyhound Inn offers:

Delicious Pub Meals: Hearty dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Real Ales and Drinks: A great selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
Canal-Side Views: Enjoy your meal or drink while soaking in the bustling canal-side atmosphere.
The pub’s proximity to the stop lock makes it a favourite gathering spot for boaters, walkers, and locals alike.

Things to Do Around Hawkesbury Junction
While Hawkesbury Junction is a functional stop for boaters, it also offers plenty of attractions for visitors:

Walking
The towpaths around the junction provide excellent walking routes, offering views of the lock, bridges, and the surrounding countryside. Walkers can explore the paths leading toward the Coventry or Oxford Canals for a relaxing stroll.

Fishing
Anglers will find the waters around the junction teeming with fish, including roach, bream, and perch. It’s a peaceful spot to cast a line while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

Wildlife Watching
The area is home to various bird species, including kingfishers and herons, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Hawkesbury Junction: A Must-Visit for Boaters and Visitors

Hawkesbury Junction is more than just a canal junction; it’s a place where history, community, and leisure converge. Its rich past as a vital transport link and its modern-day role as a haven for narrowboaters make it a standout destination on Britain’s canal network.

Whether you’re passing through on a narrowboat, enjoying a meal at the Greyhound Inn, or simply exploring the scenic towpaths, Hawkesbury Junction promises a memorable experience for all who visit.