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South Stratford Canal split bridges


The Stratford Canal is home to a unique set of structures called split bridges. They were built so horses could pull boats along the canal without the need to remove their tow ropes each time they came to a bridge. By building into the design a method to keep the horses attached to their ropes and the boat, time would be saved, making the process more efficient.

Many of these bridges are now Grade II listed structures, and their presence on the waterway helps to provide a link to the canal’s industrial past. This winter, British Waterways is carrying out essential repairs to 14 bridges along the canal to help preserve them for future generations to use and enjoy.

Join us at this open day to see what the bridges look like when the canal is drained of water, exposing their historic brickwork. Skilled workers will be using heritage techniques alongside modern construction methods to repair brickwork, replace sand stone copings and improve the condition of the metal work on these special bridges.

British Waterways’ team, including heritage advisors and engineers, will be on-site at the open day to explain the project and also to help you have a go at trying out some of the heritage skills being used on the bridges this year. You will have the opportunity to try your hand at using lime mortar to lay a brick; and see just how precise and skilled you need to be to create a smooth and well-fitted sandstone coping block.

Date: TBC, please keep an eye on this page for details.
Time: 11am–3.30pm. Guided walk and talk around the site at 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. Have-a-go heritage skills, try your hand at lime mortar brick-laying and sandstone carving will follow each walk.
Location: Meet at the Navigation Inn car park, Stratford Road, Wootton Wawen, Warwickshire, B95 6BZ. Walks will leave from the car park.
Booking: Not required


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: 03/10/2011

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