Kintbury Lock facts for kids
Kintbury Lock
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| Waterway | Kennet and Avon Canal |
|---|---|
| Country | England |
| County | Berkshire |
| Maintained by | British Waterways |
| Operation | manual |
| First built | 1718-1723 |
| Fall | 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m) |
| Coordinates | 51°24′06″N 1°26′47″W / 51.4016°N 1.4465°W |
Kintbury Lock is a special kind of gate system called a lock. It is found on the Kennet and Avon Canal in a village called Kintbury, which is in Berkshire, England. Locks like Kintbury Lock help boats travel up and down hills on a canal.
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What is Kintbury Lock?
Kintbury Lock is one of many locks along the Kennet and Avon Canal. This canal connects the River Kennet in Reading with the River Avon in Bath. Locks are like water elevators for boats. They allow boats to move between different water levels.
How Does Kintbury Lock Work?
Kintbury Lock works by changing the water level inside a chamber. When a boat wants to go up, the lock fills with water. When a boat wants to go down, water is let out. This lock is operated manually, meaning people have to open and close its gates by hand.
How Much Does the Water Level Change?
The water level at Kintbury Lock changes by about 5 feet and 9 inches (which is about 1.75 meters). This change in height helps boats move smoothly along the canal. Imagine climbing a small hill; the lock helps boats do that on water!
History of Kintbury Lock
The Kennet and Avon Canal, including Kintbury Lock, was built a long time ago. Construction on this part of the canal happened between 1718 and 1723. This means Kintbury Lock has been helping boats for nearly 300 years!
Why Was the Canal Built?
Canals like the Kennet and Avon were very important before trains and trucks existed. They were used to transport goods like coal, timber, and food across the country. Kintbury Lock played a key role in this transport network. It helped boats carry goods through the countryside.
Kintbury Lock Today
Today, the Kennet and Avon Canal is mostly used for fun activities. People enjoy boating, kayaking, and walking along the towpaths. Kintbury Lock is still working, helping leisure boats travel along this historic waterway. It is a great example of old engineering that still works well.
