Dundas Aqueduct

Rennie's masterpiece in Bath stone

Built between 1797 and 1801 and completed in 1805, the aqueduct was designed by John Rennie with John Thomas as chief engineer. It is about 46 metres long, with a broad semicircular central arch flanked by two smaller oval arches, all in honey-coloured Bath stone. In 1951 it became the first canal structure to be scheduled as an ancient monument, and it marks the old boundary between Somerset and Wiltshire.

Seeing it properly

Walking across on the towpath shows the canal, but the best view of the arches is from below. Paths lead down towards the river so you can see the full span. At the western end, Brassknocker Basin is the surviving watered stretch of the Somerset Coal Canal, with boat moorings, cycle hire and a café. Bring a camera: the stone glows in low evening light.

A day out from Bath

Cyclists and walkers often follow the canal towpath out from Bath to reach it. Combine the aqueduct with the American Museum & Gardens at Claverton Manor, about a mile and a half away, or with the walk up to Prior Park on the way back into the city.

Highlights

• Designed by John Rennie, completed 1805
• First canal structure in Britain to be scheduled (1951)
• Three Bath stone arches over the River Avon
• Brassknocker Basin moorings, cycle hire and café

Good to know

• Reachable on foot or by bike along the Kennet and Avon towpath from Bath
• Go down towards the river for the best view of the arches

Frequently asked questions