The Bath and Bristol branch starts at Hanham Lock (lock number 1) and consists of the navigable part of the River Avon as far as the World Heritage City of Bath. At Bath the navigation leaves the river and becomes a separate canal, with the branch’s section extending to Dundas Aqueduct. At this point the K&A is joined by the Somerset Coal Canal.
*** STOP PRESS *** Bath & Bristol Branch is hoping to take over running the boat Sir John Knill next year. More information to follow soon. If you would like to help with this, let us know here
Volunteering
The Branch has “adopted” the section of the River Avon from Hanham Lock to Bath (under the CRT adoption scheme), and new volunteers are always welcome to help keep it in good shape.
If you would like to help us, please fill in the form here so we can put you onto our contact list. Then you will receive emails from us and also see what opportunities are available. No regular commitment needed – just sign in to help when you can.
Supporting the K&A navigation
We follow developments along the canal to support canal users and to find ways to improve amenities. Current issues that we are engaging with include:
- Re-opening the River Avon Trail, which is blocked in Saltford (pictured) as the footpath on the river bank does not join up with the footpath on the bridge.
- Supporting canal users by lobbying to keep the waste disposal point open in Bathampton. CRT and BANES (the local authority) are no longer providing facilities for canal-boat users to dispose of their rubbish.
- Submitting proposals to the BANES Local Plan, which envisages significant building alongside the River Avon.
Claverton Pumping Station
The pumping station is owned by
the Canal and River Trust, but is operated by an independent
volunteer-run charity. Claverton is a unique waterwheel-driven pump that feeds water from the River Avon up to the Canal and falls within the Bath and Bristol Branch’s area.
The pumping station is a rare surviving example of the technology of the Georgian Regency period. The pump, started work in 1813, and uses the power of the River Avon to drive a massive waterwheel, this then lifts water up 48ft into the Kennet and Avon Canal. Burning no fuel and making no waste it is the ultimate in environmentally friendly technology.
