When the canals were constructed, they often divided land and cut through roads, requiring hundreds of bridges to be built. Here are some of the main types.
The UK has an extensive network of canals, which were developed during the height of the Industrial Revolution to transport goods and raw materials to and from factories and mills and onwards to ports and cities. Much of the network fell into disrepair as rail and road took over as the dominant form of transport.
However, during the mid twentieth century, a concerted effort was made to preserve the unique heritage of our canals, and it is now possible to enjoy over 2,000 miles of connected waterways for recreational and leisure purposes.
When the canals were constructed, they often divided land and cut through roads, requiring hundreds of bridges to be built. Here are some of the main types that can still be found today.
Brick and masonry bridges
The majority of canal bridges that survive today are simple brick or stone structures that are arched or ‘hump backed’ to allow for the passage of vessels. Although basic in design, they are generally aesthetically pleasing. Many have been strengthened to cope with modern levels of traffic.
Cast iron bridges
Cast iron canal bridges are most common in the Midlands, and are similar in design with a graceful arched shape and vertical railings.
Swing and lift bridges
Some canal bridges open to allow boats to pass through. They either lifted up from one side like a drawbridge, or swivelled from a central point. These were usually cheaper to build than a fixed bridge.
Aqueducts
Most complex of all are aqueducts, which carry the canal across a river or valley. These required advanced engineering techniques to make sure that the structure could withstand the weight of the water, and also that it remained watertight. Later examples such as the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on the Llangollen Canal used a cast iron trough to carry the water.
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