Telling the story of life along the Stroudwater Canal based on the most complete archive of a canal's history in the UK.
Places
Photo of Stroudwater Canal Map

Highlights of interest along the towpath.
About

Running for eight miles from the River Severn to Wallbridge, Stroud, the canal was built in the 1770s to bring coal to what was then an important centre for the manufacture of woollen cloth.

Discover how the canal played a vital role in the life of the local community - as it can again when restored for leisure uses.
Canal Life
Photo of Stroud Gas Works

How the canal was built and operated.
Stories & Studies
Photo of Bristol Road Lock Painting

Contributed articles about people, places and events.
Archives
Photo of Articles for Governance

A searchable database with scans of original documents.
Get Involved
Photo of Volunteer at Gloucestershire Archives

How to help out and get the most from the archive.
News

April 2021: Images of Tonnage books for 1776-1798 and 1798-1813, and an article on Withies by the Canal.

March 2021: Summaries of Purchase Ledgers for 1775-1802 and 1814-1823.

January 2021: Vessel Movements through Framilode Lock Jan-Sep 1890.
Heritage sites
Photo of Ocean Railway Bridge Stonehouse.

Historical background to selected sites along the Stroudwater Canal.