The Manifold Lock

This is Lock 49, marking the beginning of the canal's climb toward the Caen Hill Flight—an impressive chain of 29 locks that ascend steeply into the hillside to the west.

Built over two centuries ago to connect Reading's River Kennet with Bath's River Avon, the canal was once essential for transporting goods until railways took over that role. Following a long period of decline, it's been restored and functions both as an active waterway and a peaceful place to visit. You can watch boats navigate through the lock here, observing the engineering techniques that have remained largely unchanged for generations.

The towpath makes for an excellent walk, and you'll often spot ducks, swans, and occasionally kingfishers. The location puts you within easy reach of Devizes town centre, where you'll find shops, cafes, and pubs, or you can head west toward the more dramatic Caen Hill Locks if you want to see more ambitious engineering. Manifold Lock works well as a starting point for understanding how the canal operates and for enjoying its quieter sections before you reach the steeper, more complex stretches ahead.