Bicentenary celebrations on the Caledonian and Union Canals

HERE in Scotland we’re celebrating the bicentenary of the opening of the Caledonian and Union Canals this year, as Towpath Talk celebrates its 200th edition.

There are celebratory events taking place along both canals. In the Lowlands, boaters and canal societies are planning to join the Union200 Flotilla. A major event organised by Scottish Canals and Scottish Waterways for All, it was due to take place on the weekend of May 20-21 along the length of the Union Canal with a muster and party in Manse Basin, headquarters of the Linlithgow Union Canal Society (LUCS). A similar event is planned for the Caledonian Canal in October.

Many other events are planned for the year – something for everyone, from races, both on the water and along the towpath, family fun days and festivals to storytelling, exhibits on the history and heritage of the canals, music and a special Scottish gin to commemorate the occasion. You can find a listing of all the events at scottishcanals.co.uk/200th-anniversary-union-caley/events-calendar/

The Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first and only rotating boat lift, joins in the celebrations – opened in 2002, the wheel restored the link between the Union and Forth & Clyde Canals, replacing the original flight of 11 locks. Its construction and opening was the culmination of the Millennium Link restoration.

PHOTO: SCOTTISH CANALS The Falkirk Wheel – this year sees 20 years since it opened, restoring the link between the Union and Forth & Clyde Canals.

PHOTO: PETER SANDGROUND/SCOTTISH CANALS Boats at Kirkintilloch, a scene from an earlier flotilla.