The world's highest canal that spans across two nations is located in the United Kingdom. This UNESCO World Heritage site is truly one of a kind, and it is right here in Britain. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has been named as the most captivating UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Location and Features
Located in Wales, this stunning feat of infrastructure is a must-visit for Brits. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stretches across England and Wales, measuring 11 miles in length and featuring aqueducts, tunnels, and viaducts. Visitors can "cross the stream in the sky" at this UNESCO World Heritage site, which has been recognized as the world's highest canal. The canal reminds its visitors of the industrial and engineering heritage of the area, serving as a cornerstone of the region it sits above.
Visitor Experience
Brits looking to see a unique site should consider what is on their doorstep. This beautiful part of the countryside draws in a huge number of nature and history lovers. One visitor on Tripadvisor shared their experience: "We booked the Anglo Welsh boat trip across the aqueduct (and back) and arrived early. We were allowed to park in the small area dedicated for Anglo Welsh customers and had time to walk across the aqueduct and back before taking the boat trip. Both experiences were amazing and enjoyable. After the boat trip, we walked to the aqueduct Visitor Centre, which has an excellent exhibition and video explaining how the aqueduct was built. They also have a small gift shop and serve coffee and cold drinks. Afterwards, we crossed the road to have a light lunch in the Pontcysyllte Tea Rooms - it was a very enjoyable morning."
Engineering Marvel
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct sits over the River Dee. Visitors can take a canal boat along the aqueduct, which is supported by 18 stone towers above the River Dee. A key part of the Industrial Revolution, the engineering geniuses responsible for the creation of the aqueduct were Thomas Telford and William Jessop. The aqueduct was inscribed onto the World Heritage List in 2009.
UNESCO Description
UNESCO states: "The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, at the heart of the World Heritage Site, is a navigable aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee in the Vale of Llangollen in North East Wales. The 18-arched stone and cast-iron structure was completed in 1805, having taken ten years to design and build. It is 12 feet (3.7 metres) wide and is the longest aqueduct in Great Britain as well as the highest canal aqueduct in the world. A towpath runs alongside the watercourse on one side of the Aqueduct, allowing visitors to walk across and enjoy the stunning views of the Dee Valley."
