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Iron Trunk Aqueduct, 26 February


Come along the open day at the Iron Trunk Aqueduct to find out what works British Waterways will be doing to help restore this waterway wonder.

The aqueduct celebrated its 200th birthday on 21 January last year. Engineers from British Waterways will be carrying out a series of works to help restore this iconic Georgian structure back to its former glory.

At the open day, a team of experts will show you what repairs are being carried out to the aqueduct and explain why it is in need of a makeover. You will delve into the history of the aqueduct, take a tour along and underneath it and join in guided walks along the canal.

The Iron Trunk Aqueduct carried the Grand Union Canal over the River Great Ouse and links the communities of Cosgrove and Wolverton (near Milton Keynes). Built by Leighton Buzzard-based canal engineer Benjamin Beaven, the aqueduct is in fact a replacement structure as the previous brick aqueduct fell down in the night on the 18 February 1808.

This project is being funded by a number of local organisations including the Heritage Lottery Fund, British Waterways, Wolverton Town Council and WREN

11am & 2pm

  • Short talk by British Waterways’ manager about the history of the aqueduct and what works are taking place. Meeting point is beside the aqueduct.

11:30am & 2pm

  • Guided circular walk, led by Milton Keynes Parks Trust, will depart from beside the Galleon Pub. The walks are expected to last a maximum of an hour and are not suitable for mobility users or pushchairs.

11am – 3pm

  • Free trips boat trip (one way), between Cosgrove and Wolverton (trips last about 30 minutes)
  • Galleon PH - refreshments, face painting, children’s activities, photographic display
  • Car park, Wolverton – scavenger hunt for children, from the MK Parks Trust vehicle
  • Below the aqueduct - demonstration of traditional harnessing for a working horse
  • Beside the aqueduct – come and see historic narrowboats moored alongside the towpath
  • Cosgrove Wharf – children’s activities on the MK Play Association’s Funion Bargee; refreshments aboard Elizabeth of Glamis

Booking is required to reserve your free place on the short talks or guided walks.

Book here

Location: Iron Trunk Aqueduct, Cosgrove, Bucks.

Parking: There is parking either at the public car park near to the Galleon Pub (Old Wolverton Road, Old Wolverton, Milton Keynes MK12 5PL) or at the car park alongside Cosgrove Caravan Park. British Waterways team member will be on hand to direct visitors from the car parks to the aqueduct.


British Waterways’ Canal Open Days 2011/12 are sponsored by May Gurney. Find out more about the company by visiting www.maygurney.co.uk/

Last updated: 25/01/2012

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