Hanham Lock facts for kids
Hanham Lock is a special kind of gate system called a canal lock. It is found on the River Avon, near the village of Hanham in England. This lock helps boats travel safely along the river.
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Hanham Lock: A Gateway on the River Avon
Hanham Lock is an important part of the Bristol Avon Navigation. This waterway stretches about 15 miles (24 km). It connects the Kennet and Avon Canal at Hanham Lock all the way to the Bristol Channel.
The Bristol Avon Navigation was built a long time ago, between 1724 and 1727. This project happened after Queen Anne approved it. A group of owners and an engineer named John Hore from Newbury worked together. The very first delivery of goods, like wood and metal, arrived in Bath in December 1727. Today, the Canal & River Trust looks after this important waterway.
Hanham Lock's Special Spot
Hanham Lock is the first lock you reach when you travel east from Netham. This is where boats leave the Bristol Floating Harbour. Next to the lock, there is a weir, which is like a small waterfall for the river. Boats use the lock to go up or down. Hanham Lock is officially known as Lock Number 1 on the Kennet and Avon Canal. It first opened in 1727. There used to be a coal mine dock near the lock, but the mines closed in the 1800s.
Tidal River and Old Mines
The river just below Hanham Lock is affected by the ocean's tides. High tides often flow over the weir at Netham. Sometimes, very high tides, called spring tides, can even go over the weir at Hanham Lock. This means the river becomes tidal all the way up to Keynsham Lock.
The Picnic House and Hanham Mills
The house where the canal superintendent used to live is located here. It is now called "Picnic House" and is a historic building. In front of this house, there used to be Hanham Mills. All that was left of the mills was an archway over the towpath. However, in 1897, the local church had the archway taken down because it was in bad condition.
Fun Near the Lock
Just above Hanham Lock, there are places for boats to stop and tie up. There are also two pubs nearby where people can relax and enjoy the view.
