Welcome

Welcome to the website of British Waterways, the organisation that cares for 2,200 miles of the country's canals and rivers.

Rich in heritage, abundant in wildlife and alive with culture, inland waterways are as popular today as they've ever been. Half the population lives within five miles of one of our canals and rivers and an incredible 13 million people use them every year as part of their everyday life - as a short-cut to work, walking the dog or simply taking time-out and watching the boats.

Independent surveys show that nine out of ten people agree that they are an important part of the nation's heritage, and it's British Waterways' job to ensure they remain so, whilst serving a modern purpose for the local communities through which they pass.

If you are a public sector organisation there are many opportunities to work in partnership with us to enhance the lives of your community through improving your local waterway.

We are constantly looking at new ways to fund the maintenance and development of the waterways, and there are many business opportunities available on our canals and rivers for business partners.

Skilled, committed and professional employees and volunteers are vital to help us achieve our goals. Find current vacancies with British Waterways here.

You can find out more about things to do waterside or ways to get afloat by visiting our leisure website, www.waterscape.com jam-packed with information and maps for every inland waterway.