Foxton Locks

Foxton Locks is an exceptional example of British waterway heritage, nestled in the rural heart of Leicestershire, United Kingdom. This notable site boasts a unique staircase of ten canal locks located on the Leicester line of the Grand Union Canal. Constructed in the early 19th century, Foxton Locks is renowned for its engineering ingenuity and is the largest flight of such locks in the UK.

Visitors to Foxton Locks can explore the fascinating Foxton Canal Museum, which delves into the rich history of the British canal system and the vital role that Foxton Locks played in the transportation network during the Industrial Revolution. The museum offers a deep dive into the lives of the people who worked on the canals, the construction of the locks, and the technology that was developed to overcome the challenges of the steep hillside, including the now-defunct Foxton Inclined Plane, a boat lift that operated from 1900 to 1911.

The locks operate through a sophisticated system of gates and pounds, allowing boats to ascend or descend a 75-foot hill in a harmonious ballet of water and engineering. It is a living museum where the traditions of narrowboat navigation are still practiced, and visitors can watch the boats as they carefully navigate the series of locks.

In addition to the museum, the area around Foxton Locks offers picturesque walking trails, charming canal-side pubs, and opportunities for leisurely canal boat trips, making it a delightful destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking to experience the tranquility of Britain's waterways.