Britain's official guide to canals, rivers and lakes

Friday 9th January 2009

Lune Aqueduct, Lancashire

A magnificent piece of engineering.

Designed by John Rennie, Lune Aqueduct was completed in 1797 and is still considered to be one of the “wonders of the waterways”. The structure manages the rare task of appearing both sturdy and elegant and on a bright evening its reflection is simply stunning. The 61ft high aqueduct carries the Lancaster Canal 664ft across the River Lune, and each of its beautiful golden arches span 70ft. Inscribed on the upstream face of the aqueduct are the words: “ To Public Prosperity”, and on the downstream face a sentence in Latin which translates as: “Old needs are served, far distant sites combined. Rivers by art to bring new wealth are joined”. Boat trips along the canal run throughout the day, and are the perfect way to enjoy the peaceful surrounding countryside and this outstanding piece of architecture.

Find out more about Lune Aqueduct.