The History of Thomas Telford's Caledonian Canal

Fort Augustus, at the heart of the Great Glen, is a hive of activity - bustling with boaters, locals and visitors. Take time out to enjoy the Caledonian Canal Visitor Centre. A small but unique venue showcasing the history of Thomas Telford's Caledonian Canal from its beginnings to its present day rejuvenation.

Free admission. Open 7 days. Open from April to the End of October 10am - 5.30pm (Closed for lunch between 1.30pm 2pm). School visits or out of hours opening for groups may be possible by prior arrangement. Call 01320 366493 for advice.

Find out why, when and how the canal was built. Use our touch screen computer to explore the network of local walks and cycle routes. Watch the lock keepers guide the boats through the dramatic flight of locks. See how locks help boats travel uphill. Enjoy a meal at one of the lockside pubs and cafes. Get active and try a section of the Great Glen Way or the Great Glen Mountainbike Trails. Take a boat trip on Loch Ness - see if you can spot Nessie!

Learn more about Scottish Canals by following this link.

Images copyright:

Images 1,2,4,6 and 8 - British Waterways Scotland

Images 3 and 7 - Peter Soundground 

Image 5 - Christine Spreiter

Image 7 - Scotavia Image