Little Venice, near London’s Paddington Station, is even
more colourful this May Day Bank Holiday weekend. The annual Canalway Cavalcade is being held
in there in the pool, where the Grand Union Canal and Regent's Canal meet.
Around
130 narrowboats from all over the country have gathered to celebrate, with plenty
of very British fun, including Morris dancing, bunting, music, a real ale tent,
stalls and entertainment for youngsters.
The free event, now more than 30
years old, is organised by the Inland Waterways
Association, and is the celebration of a great success story. Almost 200
years ago the canals were the motorways of their day, transporting goods
and
people across the country during the Industrial Revolution. Then in the
1820s came the railways, with faster
and cheaper options. Canals, especially rural ones, fell into disuse,
and many were closed. But after WW2, people began to
appreciate the leisure opportunities they offered. The IWA was formed to
campaign for their continued use, and has been pivotal in restoration
of the network.
Many of the boats on show this weekend are available for hire, and I’m sure visitors thronging the towpaths will be tempted to try a
holiday afloat.
https://www.waterways.org.uk
