Hadfield's British Canals

The fascinating story of the canals of Britain and Ireland is here brought to life. In this classic study the renowned canal historian Charles Hadfield described in meticulous detail how canals emerged from the energy, enterprise and engineering achievement which characterized the industrial revolution of the late eighteenth century; how they thrived in the 'Canal Age' and subsequently declined in the face of fierce competition from the railways; their survival into the twentieth century; and, following their transformation after the Second World War, their recent popular revival.
When the first edition of British Canals was published, in 1950, it was acclaimed as a pioneering work of transport history. The Spectator prophesied, correctly as it transpired, that 'as a canal history it is unlikely to be superseded'. In subsequent editions the book was updated and extended to take account of new developments and discoveries. For this eighth edition, Joseph Boughey, with the advice of Charles Hadfield, has not only brought the story up to date but has also substantially increased the coverage of Irish waterways, pleasure boating and the twentieth-century history of canals. The opportunity has also been taken to restructure and re-illustrate the book.
Whether historians or holiday-makers, canal workers or armchair enthusiasts, this book will prove a fascinating companion to all who want to discover more about the inland waterways of Britain and Ireland.