In the midst of rural Herefordshire, one is surprised to find one of the most ambitious and enigmatic of all the Georgian canals. Proposed at the beginning of the "Canal Mania" in the late 18th century, the promoters sought to connect the River Severn to Leominster and towns further to the west.
Although the
whole route was never
completed, the canal was worked
from Mamble to Leominster
for over sixty years before being superseded by railways. Coal and sundry goods were
carried between wharves at Mamble and Leominster. The cost of
coal products along the route of the canal were dramatically
reduced and this gave north Herefordshire it's first glimpse of
the Industrial Revolution.
Substantial remains can be found, but at first sight may be difficult to recognise or interpret. At Leominster Canal Promotions Ltd. we have sought to research and publish information and guides to the route, history, personalities and context of the canal
Plans are being made to hold seminars and tours. These are aimed at promoting a better understanding of the canal and it's historical setting.