Adult Canal Heritage Education

Rickmansworth Waterways Trust runs a programme that would suit U3A groups, historical societies or any adult group that is interested in the heritage of canals.

A group visit to Batchworth will bring history alive at a site where the canals played their part in the Industrial Revolution. The visit will make use of our purpose-built education facilities and the unique experience of seeing inside the cabin of our heritage wooden narrow boat ‘Roger.’

The programme:

Welcome: A short welcome talk about the work of Rickmansworth Waterways Trust. Tea and coffee will be served.

Lecture: An opportunity for an illustrated talk by one of our knowledgeable volunteers. The subjects range from various aspects of the history of the canals to boat conservation and can be tailored to a groups requirements.

Following the talk the group will divide into two smaller groups and each group will have the opportunity to do the following activities in turn:

Heritage walk: A short walk along the side of the canal to see evidence of the past use of the waterway. The highlight of the walk will be a visit to the historic narrow boat ‘Roger’.

Boat Trip: A canal boat trip on the ‘Pride of Batchworth’ where a volunteer will accompany the group to impart further information about the history of the Grand Union Canal and answer any questions the group may have.

Times:

The programme will be done at a leisurely pace and take about 3 hours. We can be flexible about the time and adapt the schedule based on a groups needs and visits can take place in either the morning or afternoon throughout the year.

Other Information:

  • Group size will be a maximum of 24 people
  • Groups should arrange their own transport
  • Details about parking or coach drop offs will be provided on request
  • Price will be given on request
  • Groups will need to make their own arrangements for lunch and we can make recommendations if required
  • The walks along the canal will include a flight of steps and some uneven surfaces so please wear appropriate footwear
  • A pre-visit is very welcome
  • The programme may vary depending on the weather

Booking:

To check availability of dates please go to our booking website.

For further information contact: Rob Moore (Education Programme Manager) by email: education@rwt.org.uk