10 facts about the Caledonian Canal

From the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the North Sea in the east, the Caledonian Canal stretches across Scotland. It is a marvellous feat of engineering which connects people and places today. For our guests staying at Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness, the iconic canal can be seen just on the outskirts of Inverness at Seaport Marina. It’s a fascinating structure – and here are ten fact about it to when your appetite for a visit! 

1. It took nearly two decades to complete

The Caledonian Canal was an ambitious engineering project. It was finally completed in 1822 after construction began nearly 20 years earlier in 1804. It was designed by famous engineer Thomas Telford (who also designed many bridges around the Highlands).  Once finished, it allowed boats to travel from east coast to west coast and back, without having to attempt the perilous journey around Scotland’s north coast. 

2. 60 miles of beauty

The canal stretches 60 miles (97 km) in total from Loch Linnhe on the west coast to the Moray Firth on the east. Along it’s way it passes through areas of beauty, including Loch Oich and Loch Ness.

3. It enjoys a rugged landscape

The Caledonian Canal offers travellers the chance to enjoy some of the most rugged landscapes in Scotland. Stunning mountains, serene lochs, and forests full of wildlife follow the canal. A highlight is the Great Glen, a natural geological fault line that divides the Highlands, and offers magnificent views over the area.

4. It was a significant trade route

Before railways and steamships, moving produce around Scotland was difficult. The Caledonian Canal made it much easier to move important goods around the country. It meant people could avoid travelling around the top of the country through the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea. As such, the Caledonian Canal route became a major highway, like one of our busy motorways today.

5. The canal was part of a larger scheme

The Caledonian Canal was part of a scheme to make Scotland more accessible, both to industry and tourists. By enabling people to get around easier, communities could grow and tourism started to be encouraged from England.

6. The canal merges with Loch Ness

The Caledonian Canal mnerges with Loch Ness. Although this loch is said to be home to the Loch Ness Monster, your chances of coming into contact with it are quite slim! The canal passes directly through the loch, allowing visitors the chance to see this body of water from a unique angle.

7. The canal has 29 locks

The canal is made up of 29 locks. These are used to raise and lower the water, allowing boats to travel seamlessley up and down the landscape. The most famous of these locks is undoubtably Neptune’s Staircase at Fort William. There are 8 locks here in close formation, making it a fascinating watch to see one boat travel from side to side.

8. The canal attracts not just those on a boat

Cyclists, walkers, and wildlife enthusiasts all come to the canal to enjoy the landscape, wildlife and community. The environment is peaceful and friendly, and is a wonderful place to sit and relax. 

9. It was important during WWII

During World War II, the canal was strategically important It offered a secure and fast route for ships and submarinesused strategically for military purposes, providing a secure route for transporting ships and submarines across the country. It was safer than travelling the open sea.

10. The canal is still popular today

Even although it is over two hundred years old, the canal is still popular and used daily. Whilst not as busy as it once was, it’s still a thriving community and supports many communities, for example Fort Augustus. 

Visit the Caledonian Canal today

Whether you fancy travelling the length of the canal by boat, or simply visiting spots along the way, it’s a wonderful idea for a day out near Inverness. Stay at the Kingsmills hotel as your base, and enjoy easy access to the canal in the city, as well as between here and Loch Ness. Check out our special offers and stay with us on your next Highland trip.