Canals
SHROPSHIRE UNION CANAL
Formed by an amalgamation of several canal companies, what is now known as the Shropshire Union combines one of the earliest canals with one of the last built. At the northern end, the old Chester Canal passes through historic Chester, running right alongside the city walls, and the canal terminates at Ellesmere Port, home of the Boat Museum’s extensive collection of historic craft. The southern length of the canal was built much later in competition with the early railways, and shows the results of half a century of progress with deep cuttings, high embankments, and all the locks built in close flights.66 miles 46 locksMaximum dimensions: length 72ft, beam 9ft (Ellesmere Port to Nantwich), 7ft (Nantwich to Autherley)
