The Canal, Bradford on Avon

Scotch boat with passengers coming from Bath as depicted by Mrs Elizabeth Tackle in 1850

The wrought Iron Boat, the Swallow which had been brought from Scotland at the joint expense of the Canal Company for £150. It was leased to Messrs Parker in June 1833 for £30 per annum.The trip from Bath to Bradford took less than an hour and a half in each direction. By 1837 there were two trips daily carrying an average of more than forty each way.The accomodation consisted of 1st and 2nd class cabins and there was also a string band for entertainment. The opening of the Railway in 1857 bought this service to an end.

Scotch boat at Freshford on its way to Bath as depicted by Mrs Elizabeth Tackle in 1850

Scotch boat at Limpley Stoke on its way to Bath as depicted by Mrs Elizabeth Tackle in 1850

Starting place for the Scotch boat near Sydney Gardens, Bath

The Claverton Hotel (now Bassett House) was built along side the canal to provide accomodation for the passengers.

The same view today with Bassett House on the horizon and the bridge taking the path over the canal.

The Canal at Dundas Aqueduct with the train passing through the tunel below.

Red Cross barge Bittern at Bradford on Avon c.1918

1838 Map of Bradford showing the Wharf

Original Wooden Swing Gate over the Canal before Restoration, photograph by Peter Maundrell