Regent's Canal facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Regents Canal
West portal of the Islington tunnel
Specifications
Length	8.6 miles (13.8 km)
Maximum boat length	78 ft 0 in (23.77 m)
Maximum boat beam	14 ft 6 in (4.42 m)
Locks	13
Status	Open
Navigation authority	Canal and River Trust
History
Principal engineer	James Morgan
Date of act	1812
Construction began	14 October 1812
Date of first use	1816 (1816)
Date completed	1 Aug 1820
Geography
Start point	Paddington Arm (Grand Union Canal)
End point	River Thames (Limehouse)
Branch(es)	Hertford Union Canal Limehouse Cut

The Regent's Canal is a famous waterway in England. It flows through the city of London. This canal is an important part of London's network of canals. It connects the Grand Union Canal to the River Thames.

Building the Canal

The idea for the Regent's Canal came about in the early 1800s. People wanted a way to move goods easily across London. Roads were often muddy and slow. Waterways were a much better option for heavy items.

When it was Built

The plan for the canal was approved in 1812. Building work started on October 14, 1812. It took many years to finish this big project. The canal was finally opened on August 1, 1820.

Who Built It

The main engineer for the Regent's Canal was a man named James Morgan. He designed the route and the structures needed. Building a canal involved a lot of digging and construction. Workers had to build locks and tunnels.

How the Canal Works

The Regent's Canal is about 8.6 miles (13.8 kilometers) long. It has 13 locks along its path. Locks are like water elevators for boats. They help boats move up or down between different water levels.

Key Features

• Islington Tunnel: This is a long tunnel that boats travel through. It's one of the longest canal tunnels in London.
• Limehouse Basin: This is where the canal meets the River Thames. It's a large area where boats can dock.
• Paddington Arm: The canal starts by connecting to the Paddington Arm. This arm is part of the Grand Union Canal.

Life on the Canal

For many years, the Regent's Canal was very busy. Boats called barges carried coal, timber, and other goods. They helped London's businesses grow.

The Canal Today

Today, the canal is not used much for carrying goods. Instead, it's a popular place for fun activities.

• Boating: Many people live on houseboats along the canal. You can also take boat trips.
• Walking and Cycling: There are paths along the canal banks. These are great for walks or bike rides.
• Wildlife: You can often see ducks, swans, and other birds. Sometimes, you might even spot fish in the water.

The Regent's Canal is now managed by the Canal and River Trust. They work to keep the canal clean and safe for everyone to enjoy. It's a peaceful green space in the busy city.

Images for kids

• 

  Regent's Canal: Transfer certificate of 10 shares, issued 1 December 1818

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  Macclesfield Bridge before the explosion. After the explosion it was also known as Blow Up Bridge.

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  Wenlock Basin, Islington (2004)

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  Map of the route of the Regent's Canal in London

• 

  The Regent's Canal near St Mark's Regents' Park.

See also

In Spanish: Regent's Canal para niños