The Canal History and Culture Group began in November 2016 with the aim of introducing members to the way of life the early boatmen followed and their culture and traditions. The main part of the meeting is dedicated to talks on all aspects of canal life.

The talks start at 2.30 pm through to 4.00 pm and for those who are interested in the traditional “roses and castle” painting a short session will proceed the main talk at 2.00 pm through to 2.30 pm.

The format of the two hours is as follows:

Session 1 (2.00pm to 2.30pm) - presentation set up, painting theory and any one-to-one discussions that may be required on various topics.

Session 2 (2.30pm to 3.45pm) - news from around the canal network, followed by a talk related to a canal topic.  This session is also available on Zoom.

Group members are welcome to attend either or both sessions. A schedule of talks can be found on the website.

In addition to regular meetings, we organise canal and river walks, visits to festivals, museums, restoration projects, etc., throughout the summer months, the timing being dependent on the dates of the events.

This is a link to the Canal History Timeline which shows the period 1760 to 1960 and covers the life of canals in England. This 200 year period of carrying goods on the canals was brought to an end by the severe winter of 1962/3.

Next Meeting: Friday 13th March 2026

Presentation: John will present a talk about Blowup Bridge and Hilary will present a talk on the Royal military Canal (Kent).

Talks for 2026 all start at 2:30pm, in the hall and also online via Zoom. Open to all Hu3a members

Proposed Walks for 2026

• Beverly Brook from Worcester Park to Putney on the River Thames

• Nickey Line - Harpenden to Hemel Hampstead

• Barking Riverside to Silvertown

All Groups