Canal scene, Leeds

Over a period of years commencing in 1770 and with final completion some fifty plus years later, a canal was constructed between Leeds and Liverpool. The impact on trade that it brought to the areas through which it passed cannot be underestimated. It connected the heavy industries and mills of the area with the wider world and brought prosperity in its wake. The decision to build the canal with broad locks ensured that it competed successfully with the railways throughout the 19th century. Today this well maintained canal is used mainly by the holiday and leisure industries. This photo shows the canal as it travels to its terminus in Leeds.