The deals, disasters and quirks of the 200 year-old Kennet & Avon Canal in Bath are being brought to life by a new audio story trail.
A series of audio narrations and dramatisations will, for the first time, explain the history of eleven sites along the Kennet & Avon Canal. Visitors simply use their smart phone to scan a code next to each site along towpath in order to access the free information.
The two mile circular route includes Halfpenny Bridge, the toll bridge behind Bath train station that collapsed in 1877 killing ten people and throwing many more into the water. Sydney Gardens, scene of a historic dispute over the route the canal would take through Bath gets a mention and Cleveland House, one of the most iconic buildings on the nation’s canal network is included.
It also takes in the city’s impressive Georgian architecture, the Holburne Museum and Pulteney Bridge.
Sarah brice, project manager at the Canal & River Trust, said: “The audio tour uncovers the hidden history of the Kennet & Avon Canal in Bath. The sites are seen or used by thousands in the city each day, but very few people will be aware of their history or the role they played in establishing Bath as a major trading city and tourist destination.
“The tour is ideal for lovers of the canals, history and heritage. It is for the people who want to get the story behind the story. Just scan your smart phone on the codes next to each site, and you get the information and stories read out to you.”
To find out more visit canalrivertrust.org.uk/bath-flight where the audio commentaries can be heard.