Nynehead Boat Lift 2026
The substantial remains are of historical significance as it is the only one of the seven to give an idea of what the structures must have looked like, and this is the best preserved. It was built by James Green in the 1830s, and raised tub boats that carried 8 tons of cargo 24ft from the canal to the aqueduct above, and is probably the earliest boat lift in the UK and it is on the Grand Western Canal. On site is an interpretive panel for you to study how it worked.
Open Days & Times
Access at all times. Visit website or facebook for more details.
Travel
- By Rail: Taunton / 8 miles
These lifts were certainly the first in Britain, and possibly the world, to be commercially successful and operated for nearly 30 years. In their day they were at the forefront of technology. One has to respect the courage and imagination of the Engineer and Proprietors in building such mechanisms when materials technology and iron founding were in their infancy.
The operating machinery was removed shortly after closure in 1869 but a detailed description of the operation together with engineer’s drawings still exists. James Green’s lifts worked on a simple balance principle. Later generations of canal lift were hydraulically or electrically operated.
There was an interesting article published in Vintage Spirit magazine in August 2016.
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