Mile End Lock facts for kids
Mile End Lock, 2008
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| Waterway | Regent's Canal |
|---|---|
| County | Tower Hamlets Greater London |
| Maintained by | Canal & River Trust |
| Fall | 8 feet (2.4 m) |
| Distance to Limehouse Basin |
1 mile (1.6 km) |
| Distance to Paddington Basin |
7.9 miles (12.7 km) |
| Coordinates | 51°31′30″N 0°02′17″W / 51.525125°N 0.038030°W |
Mile End Lock is a special kind of water elevator on the Regent's Canal in London. It helps boats travel up and down the canal where the water level changes. This lock is found in an area called Mile End, within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. It connects the water levels between Queen Mary University of London and Mile End Park.
The nearest underground train station to Mile End Lock is Mile End.
Contents
What is a Canal Lock?
A canal lock is like a clever water staircase for boats. Canals often go through hilly areas. To make sure boats can travel smoothly, engineers build locks. These locks help boats move from one water level to another.
How Does a Lock Work?
Imagine a chamber with gates at both ends. When a boat wants to go up, it enters the lock from the lower water level. The bottom gate closes behind it. Then, water is let into the chamber from the higher level. As the water fills up, the boat rises with it. Once the water levels match, the top gate opens, and the boat can leave.
If a boat wants to go down, the process is similar but in reverse. The boat enters from the higher level. Both gates close. Water is then let out of the chamber until the boat reaches the lower level. Then the bottom gate opens, and the boat continues its journey.
Why are Locks Important?
Locks are super important for canals. Without them, boats could only travel on flat stretches of water. Locks allow canals to cross different landscapes. They make it possible to connect towns and cities by water, even if they are at different heights. This helps with trade and travel.
Mile End Lock's Location
Mile End Lock is a busy spot on the Regent's Canal. It's located in East London. The lock helps boats navigate the canal as it passes through the Mile End area.
The Regent's Canal
The Regent's Canal is a famous waterway in London. It stretches for about 13.8 kilometres (8.6 miles). The canal connects the Grand Union Canal in the west to the River Thames in the east. It was built a long time ago, in the early 1800s. The canal was used to transport goods across London. Today, it's mostly used by leisure boats and for walking or cycling along its towpaths.
Surrounding Area
Mile End Lock is surrounded by interesting places. On one side, you'll find Queen Mary University of London. This is a large university with many students. On the other side is Mile End Park. This park is a green space where people can relax and enjoy nature. It's a popular spot for locals.
Maintaining the Lock
The Canal & River Trust looks after Mile End Lock. This organization is responsible for keeping canals and rivers in England and Wales in good condition. They make sure the locks work properly. They also maintain the towpaths and bridges. This helps everyone enjoy the waterways safely.
