History of the Waterways

Today, there are over 4,000 miles of navigable waterways. These are seen as a valuable part of Britain's landscape. They are appreciated for their industrial heritage, for their contribution to urban landscapes and for their atmosphere of peace in a busy world. Their leisure value is accepted and there is increasing interest in the potential of some waterways for the development of water borne freight carrying.

Waterways Timeline

Gain a potted-history of IWA's activities through each decade.

History of the Waterways

The history of Britain as an industrial power is inextricably linked to the development of the inland waterways. At the time of the industrial revolution a new system of transport was required, other than the pack-horse. The inland waterways were developed to meet this need. They were the 'motorways' of their day.

Here you will find all manner of historical information about, and relating to, Britain's inland waterways.

Historical Campaigns

The Inland Waterways Association was formed in 1946 to campaign for the greater use of the waterways and to resist the deterioration and frequent abandonment of the canals that was taking place then. Find out about fight to save the waterways, and of our continuing efforts to improve Britain's unique canals and river navigations in the historical campaigns pages.

Waterways Personalities

Read a brief biography for some of the people who have worked to promote the Association's cause, and left their mark on the inland waterways for the benefit of future generations.