Waltham Common Lock facts for kids
Downstream of the lock
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| Waterway | River Lee Navigation |
|---|---|
| County | Hertfordshire Essex |
| Maintained by | British Waterways |
| Operation | Manual |
| Length | 85 feet (25.9 m) |
| Width | 16 feet (4.9 m) |
| Fall | 4 feet 10 inches (1.5 m) |
| Distance to Bow Creek |
13.5 miles (21.7 km) |
| Distance to Hertford Castle Weir |
12.8 miles (20.6 km) |
| Coordinates | 51°41′55″N 0°01′07″W / 51.698596°N 0.018561°W |
Waltham Common Lock (number 10) is a special kind of gate system called a lock. It is found on the River Lee Navigation near Waltham Cross in Hertfordshire, England. This lock helps boats move up and down the river when the water level changes.
The lock is located inside the beautiful River Lee Country Park. It is also very close to the Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre, where people enjoy canoeing and kayaking. Near the end of the lock, there is a small canal called the Powdermill Cut. This cut was dug in 1806 to connect the Waltham Abbey Royal Gunpowder Mills directly to the main river path.
What is a Lock?
A lock is like a water elevator for boats. It helps boats travel between different water levels on a river or canal. Imagine a section of water with gates at both ends.
- When a boat wants to go up, the lower gate opens, and the boat enters.
- The gate closes, and water is let into the lock chamber until the water level matches the higher section of the river.
- Then, the upper gate opens, and the boat can continue its journey.
- To go down, the process is reversed, and water is let out of the chamber.
Waltham Common Lock is operated manually, meaning people have to open and close the gates by hand.
The River Lee Navigation is a historic waterway that connects different parts of England. It was made deeper and wider over many years to allow boats to carry goods. This river system is important for both trade and recreation.
Waltham Common Lock is one of many locks along this navigation. It helps boats travel smoothly along the river, which stretches for many miles.
The Powdermill Cut
The Powdermill Cut is a short canal that branches off from Waltham Common Lock. It was built a long time ago, in 1806. Its purpose was to connect the Waltham Abbey Royal Gunpowder Mills to the main river.
The Royal Gunpowder Mills were a very important factory that made gunpowder. The Powdermill Cut allowed them to easily transport materials and finished products by boat. This made it much easier and faster to move goods than by road.
Visiting Waltham Common Lock
Waltham Common Lock is a great place to visit. It's easy to get to and offers a chance to see how these old waterways work.
- Parking: You can park your car at Windmill Lane in Cheshunt.
- Walking and Cycling: You can also get there by walking or cycling along the towpath. The towpath is a path next to the river that was originally used by horses to pull boats. It is now part of the Lea Valley Walk, a popular route for outdoor activities.
- Train Access: The area is also served by Cheshunt railway station, making it accessible by public transport.
The lock is located within the River Lee Country Park, which is a large area with lots of nature and outdoor activities. It's a fun place to explore and learn about local history and wildlife.
