Selby Canal
engineered by William Jessop, 6 miles long with 2 locks

History and General Knowledge of the Selby Canal

The Selby Canal is a waterway that runs for approximately 6 miles from the River Ouse at Selby in North Yorkshire, England, to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal at Haddlesey Junction. The canal was built to provide a direct link between the River Ouse and the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, which would facilitate the transportation of goods and materials between the industrial cities of Leeds and Liverpool.

The construction of the Selby Canal began in 1778 and was completed in 1779, at a cost of £30,000. The canal was designed by John Smeaton a renowned civil engineer of the time, and largely engineered by William Jessop.

Originally built to accommodate small boats known as keels, which were used to transport goods such as coal, grain and textiles. The canal was a major success and it quickly became an important part of the region's transportation network.

Only two locks; No. 1 at Selby where the canal connects to the River Ouse and the other, Lock No. 2 at West Haddersley where the canal connects to the River Aire.

In the 19th century, as the industrial revolution gathered pace, the Selby Canal underwent significant improvements to accommodate larger boats and increase its capacity. The canal was widened and deepened, and new, bigger locks were built to allow boats to navigate the canal more efficiently. In addition, a number of branches were added to the canal, including the West Haddlesey Arm, the North Duffield Arm, and the Brayton Basin.

During the 20th century, the Selby Canal experienced a decline in commercial traffic as road and rail transportation became more dominant. However, the canal remained open to recreational traffic, and it became a popular destination for boaters and anglers. In the 1980's the canal was restored and reopened as part of the British Waterways network, and it continues to be used for recreational purposes to this day.

Today, the Selby Canal is a popular destination for boaters and walkers, offering a peaceful and picturesque route through the North Yorkshire countryside. The canal is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including kingfishers, herons, and otters, and it provides an important habitat for a number of rare and endangered species. The canal is also an important part of the region's cultural heritage, and it is celebrated in local festivals and events throughout the year.