The "Wilts & Berks" canal construction started from Semington near Melksham in 1795 and finished at Abingdon in 1810.
Boats first arrived at Swindon's wharf in 1804, initially bring stone and bricks.
The "North Wilts" canal construction started from Swindon in 1814 and finished at Latton near Cricklade where it connected to the Thames & Severn canal, this connection brought in coal from the Forest of Dean.
The "Wilts & Berks" canal was prosperous until the railway came to Swindon in 1841, after which the canal declined and was formally abandoned in 1914.
To open the Google Earth virtual tours:
Swindon Mainline Tour
Swindon North Wilts Branch Tour
Pewsham Tour
Timings
Available anytime
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
