Guardians of the Waterways: Navigating the UK’s Historic Network
When you set off from our base at Shardlow Wharf, you aren't just taking a boat trip; you are entering a living museum. The English inland waterways make up an intricate network of over 2,000 miles, featuring over 1,500 locks, 50+ tunnels, and thousands of bridges.
Maintaining this 200-year-old infrastructure is a monumental task. To enjoy the "cut" to its fullest, it helps to understand who keeps the water in the channel and how that affects your life on board.
The Navigation Authorities
While the Canal & River Trust (CRT) manages the majority of the network, they aren't the only guardians. Depending on where your wanderlust takes you, you may encounter several different authorities:
Canal & River Trust (CRT): Responsible for most canals and many rivers.
Environment Agency (EA): Manages key rivers like the Thames, Nene, and Great Ouse.
Regional Authorities: Including the Broads Authority, Peel Holdings (Bridgewater Canal), and the National Trust (Wey & Godalming Navigations).
Pro Tip: Most boaters stick to CRT waters, but if you plan on extensive travel across both CRT and EA territories, the Gold License is often the most cost-effective way to keep your journey seamless.
The Reality of 200-Year-Old Engineering
The infrastructure we cruise through was built for horse-drawn narrowboats, not modern living. Today’s maintenance crews and contractors face massive challenges. A single lock gate can cost £20,000 to manufacture, and a significant canal breach can run into the millions to repair.
This is why we place such high importance on in-house steelwork. At JD Narrowboats, we build our hulls from British steel right here in Shardlow. Our robust construction is designed to handle the "real world" of the canal network—from shallow pounds and weedy bottoms to the heavy masonry of historic locks. When the infrastructure is vintage, your hull needs to be modern and resilient.
The Unsung Heroes: Volunteers on the Towpath
If you find yourself on a busy lock flight during a summer weekend, you will likely meet the "angels of the cut" -the volunteer lockkeepers. These individuals often work several days a week for no pay, helping boaters navigate safely and efficiently.
A friendly word (and perhaps an ice cream on a sweltering July day) goes a long way. These volunteers, along with the professional CRT field operators, are the reason many solo boaters can manage the 17-lock flights and deep-draughted sections of the network with confidence.
Planning Your Journey
Because the network is constantly being repaired, planning is essential - especially for winter cruising. The CRT website’s "Stoppages" section is an owner’s best friend. Before you untie the lines:
Check the Stoppage Map: Ensure your route isn't blocked by a planned lock gate replacement.
Monitor Water Levels: Shallow sections can be tricky for boats with a deeper draught; always check local notices.
Respect the Maintenance: If you see a crew trimming greenery or greasing paddle gear, remember they are the reason the network remains open for us to enjoy.
Built in Shardlow, Ready for the Network
At JD Narrowboats, we have spent over 50 years at the heart of the canal system. Based in the historic Shardlow Wharf, we understand the demands that 2,000 miles of heritage engineering place on a vessel. Our bespoke cabinetry and precision steelwork ensure that while the world outside is 200 years old, the world inside your boat is one of total comfort and reliability.
Ready to commission a boat built for the long haul?
Book a Consultation at Shardlow Wharf