Kennet and Avon Navigation

The Kennet and Avon Navigation is a beautiful and historically significant waterway that stretches across southern England, linking the River Thames at Reading with the city of Bristol via Bath. This 87-mile (140 km) canal route passes through some of the most picturesque and diverse landscapes, including rolling countryside, charming villages, and historic towns. The navigation is made up of two rivers—the River Kennet and the River Avon—connected by an artificial canal in the middle, creating a continuous route from east to west.

History

Originally conceived in the early 18th century, the Kennet and Avon Navigation was built to facilitate the movement of goods between Bristol and London, bypassing the long sea route around the south coast. The construction of the canal section began in 1794 under the supervision of the famous engineer John Rennie and was completed in 1810. It played a significant role in transporting coal, stone, grain, and other goods.

The navigation fell into decline with the advent of the railway, and by the 20th century, it had become almost impassable. However, a major restoration effort, led by canal enthusiasts and supported by the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust, brought it back to life. It was fully reopened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1990.

Locks and Features

The Kennet and Avon Navigation has 105 locks, many of which are significant features in their own right. One of the most impressive is the Caen Hill Locks, a flight of 29 locks near Devizes that forms a steep staircase and is considered an engineering marvel. This stretch alone rises 237 feet in just two miles, making it one of the most iconic sights on the waterway.

Another fascinating feature is the Dundas Aqueduct, which carries the canal over the River Avon. This Grade I listed structure, designed by Rennie, is an architectural gem and a favorite spot for visitors.

The Bruce Tunnel, near Savernake Forest, is the only tunnel on the canal, stretching for 502 yards and offering boaters a dramatic experience as they pass through the hillside.

Connected Rivers and Canals

The Kennet and Avon Navigation connects the River Thames at Reading in the east, providing a route toward London and the Midlands. In the west, it links to the River Avon at Bath, which flows into the Bristol Channel at the bustling port city of Bristol. This connection to major waterways makes it part of a larger network of canals and rivers that once played a vital role in Britain’s inland transport system.

At Reading, the Kennet and Avon Canal also links with the Thames and Severn Canal, and via other waterways, it’s possible to access the Grand Union Canal, offering routes northward toward Birmingham and beyond.

Interesting Features

  • Bath Locks: At the western end, in the historic city of Bath, a series of six locks takes the canal down into the River Avon, offering incredible views of the city’s Georgian architecture.
  • Claverton Pumping Station: This historic pumping station near Bath, powered by a waterwheel, was built in 1813 to pump water from the River Avon into the canal and remains an iconic feature, now preserved as a museum.
  • Crofton Pumping Station: Near the village of Great Bedwyn, this is another historical pumping station that originally kept the summit level of the canal topped up. Remarkably, the station still operates its original steam engines, offering a glimpse into the canal’s industrial past.

Today, the Kennet and Avon Navigation is a popular route for leisure boaters, offering a mix of historical intrigue, engineering feats, and scenic beauty. Its restoration and continued maintenance serve as a testament to the enduring appeal and importance of Britain’s inland waterways.

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