Canals have been around for centuries, but their construction rapidly increased in the mid-eighteenth century due to the demands of the industrial revolution. They were needed to transport raw materials to factories safely and finished products to markets, as the roads were poorly drained and unable to provide the necessary transportation. However, with the rise of the railway era, the use of canals declined, and by the early twentieth century, no new canals were being built, and some had fallen into disuse or were filled in. This map records the canal system’s contribution to the country’s development and reminds us of our luck that the canals came before the railways. These beautifully constructed gentle waterways continue to be enjoyed to this day.
