The UK's canal network, first created in the middle of the 18th Century, is immense, stretching from the south of England all the way up to Scotland.
Canals played a pivotal role in the industrial revolution as they facilitated the transportation of heavy materials. The boat used to transport these materials are known as barges, and are 'capable of moving nearly forty tonnes of weight. This was far more than a pack of mules could carry or a horse and carriage.'1
These days the canals are more frequently used for leisure or even as a place to live. The boats that people use nowadays are more often referred to as canal boats and are slightly smaller than the industrial barges once used in the good old days. Traditionally their owners paint roses and castles on them.
Oxford has a canal running straight through it and there are a fantastic collection of narrow boats to admire. If you're around Oxford in the summer, you could even consider renting one for the weekend - it's bags of fun!
Canals played a pivotal role in the industrial revolution as they facilitated the transportation of heavy materials. The boat used to transport these materials are known as barges, and are 'capable of moving nearly forty tonnes of weight. This was far more than a pack of mules could carry or a horse and carriage.'1
These days the canals are more frequently used for leisure or even as a place to live. The boats that people use nowadays are more often referred to as canal boats and are slightly smaller than the industrial barges once used in the good old days. Traditionally their owners paint roses and castles on them.
Oxford has a canal running straight through it and there are a fantastic collection of narrow boats to admire. If you're around Oxford in the summer, you could even consider renting one for the weekend - it's bags of fun!
