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2 unusual facts about Kennet and Avon Canal


Stroudwater Navigation

There was a dip in the carriage of merchandise in 1810, when the Kennet and Avon Canal opened and provided a more convenient route from Bristol to London, but it picked up again after 1819, when the North Wilts Canal opened, providing a link from Latton to Abingdon via Swindon and the Wilts and Berks Canal, which was easier than using the Thames.

Watt steam engine

This was used to pump water for the Kennet and Avon Canal; on certain weekends throughout the year the modern pumps are switched off and the two steam engines at Crofton still perform this function.


Avoncliff railway station

It is situated next to the Kennet and Avon Canal and located almost adjacent to the Avoncliff Aqueduct so it is popular for walkers and cyclists who wish to travel along the canal path or the many picturesque walks around the station.


see also

Brunsden

Brunsden Lock, lock in on the Kennet and Avon Canal in Berkshire, England