The Ashby Canal is a serene and rural waterway that winds through the rolling countryside of Leicestershire and Warwickshire, offering a peaceful experience for boaters and nature lovers alike. Stretching for 22 miles (35 km) from its junction with the Coventry Canal at Marston Junction near Bedworth, the canal meanders through idyllic villages, pastures, and woodlands, all without a single lock along its navigable length—making it a particularly relaxing route for narrowboat journeys.
History
The canal was originally constructed in the late 18th century, with work beginning in 1794 and completed in 1804. It was built to serve the coalfields of the Ashby Woulds and South Derbyshire, facilitating the transportation of coal to industrial markets. The canal was also used for moving limestone, used in local agriculture. Although never commercially prosperous, the Ashby Canal played a key role in the development of these coal mining regions during the Industrial Revolution.
Over time, parts of the canal fell into disrepair, and by the 1960s, the section north of Snarestone was closed due to mining subsidence. However, in recent years, restoration efforts have been underway to reopen more of the canal, with long-term plans to fully restore it to its original length.
Locks
One of the most distinctive features of the Ashby Canal is that it has no locks along its 22-mile navigable stretch, making it a particularly leisurely route for boaters. This also makes it accessible for a variety of watercraft and ideal for beginner boaters or those seeking a slower-paced journey.
Connections
The Ashby Canal connects to the Coventry Canal at Marston Junction, which in turn links to other major waterways like the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal and the Oxford Canal. This makes the Ashby a part of the greater network of inland waterways, allowing for extended cruising options across England’s canal system.
Interesting Features
- Bosworth Battlefield: One of the most famous sites along the Ashby Canal is its proximity to the Bosworth Battlefield, where Richard III was famously defeated by Henry Tudor in 1485. The canal passes close to the battlefield, offering boaters a chance to explore this historically significant site.
- Snarestone Tunnel: At the northern end of the navigable section, the Snarestone Tunnel is a notable feature. At 250 yards (230 meters) long, this tunnel is an intriguing part of the journey, with its narrow bore making it a tight squeeze for larger boats.
- Restoration Projects: North of Snarestone, the canal is undergoing significant restoration efforts to reopen further sections. The first restored length, known as the Moira section, offers a glimpse of how the canal once extended through the Derbyshire coalfields.
- Wildlife: Due to its rural and undisturbed character, the Ashby Canal is rich in wildlife. It is a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of kingfishers, herons, and other waterfowl being common. The waterway’s banks are lined with wildflowers in spring and summer, adding to its natural beauty.
Overall, the Ashby Canal offers a tranquil and historically rich experience for boaters, with its lock-free navigation, connection to key waterways, and close ties to England’s industrial and medieval past. It remains a hidden gem in the heart of the English countryside.