Waterways

For the first time, paddle sports fans will be able to canoe through the longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel in the UK, as we launch a new ‘bucket list’ experience. This summer, we are offering three long weekends of guided canoe trips through Standedge Tunnel which spans 3.5 miles under the Pennines between Marsden,…

Divers have taken to the water of the Kennet & Avon Canal in Thatcham as we carry out repairs to Colthrop Lock. The lock, which is one of the busiest on the river section of the Kennet & Avon Canal, has developed leaks caused by general wear and tear. We have prioritised the work to…

We have published an Election Statement calling on all political parties to recognise the value of our canals and invest in their future. What we want The next government will face enormous challenges – from the climate emergency and its impact on nature, water and the environment, to widening inequality and the cost of living…

We’ve entered a major construction phase in the restoration of Toddbrook Reservoir in Whaley Bridge. You are invited to join us on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 July for a behind-the-scenes tour of the works. Update on the works The construction of a new spillway to the side of the reservoir is well underway. This…

We’re preparing to welcome a flotilla of vessels into Gloucester for the popular Tall Ships Festival after repairs made to a major lift bridge that allows ships passage into Gloucester Docks. During an inspection, cracks were found at the base of a mast on High Orchard Bridge, which carries St Ann Way over the Gloucester…

We’re delighted that three ‘Tilley’ lamps stolen from the National Waterway Museum have been recovered thanks to the keen eye of one of our volunteers, who spotted the lamps for sale on eBay. Our museums team alerted the police, who recovered the items. The seller is now assisting police. Holding 90% of the UK’s inland…

With the support of the Welsh Harp Conservation Group, we’ve started to install 14 new tern rafts, providing island habitats to support the common tern water birds at the Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir. The Welsh Harp Brent Reservoir was built in 1835 to supply water to the Grand Union Canal. As well as being a…

We have been awarded the international Blue Flag award for the Royal Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock marinas in Liverpool for the fourth year in a row. We received the award once again after our marinas in Liverpool received top marks for high standards of environmental information, management, safety, and boating services. Our benefits from…

Planning permission granted for ambitious artwork by Alex Chinneck. We are delighted to confirm that a new floating sculpture by internationally renowned artist Alex Chinneck has been granted planning permission. The ambitious new commission will be installed on the Tinsley Flight, close to Tinsley Marina later this year and is the first time the artist…

We are honoured that His Majesty King Charles III has announced his Patronage following a review of Royal Patronages conducted after His Majesty’s accession to the throne. As the former Prince of Wales, His Majesty had previously been our Patron since we were founded in 2012. His Majesty has had a long interest in waterways…