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  3. Learning bundles

Build a Canal

Use these activities and resources to encourage children to read, watch, play, create and do as they learn how and why canals were built and how they changed Britain.

We'd love to see your Mini Canal Adventures. Share them with us on theExplorers Twitter or Facebook pages. 

Build a Canal Activity Plan

This plan shows how you can help children to learn how and why canals were built and how they changed Britain. Use the plan to guide your learning.

All About Canals fact file front cover

All About Canals

Read this fact file to discover how canals are different from rivers, why canals were built, who built them and much more.

Build a Canal Game

Build a Canal

Play this online game and travel back in time 250 years to build a canal. You'll need to choose the best route for your canal and the hardest working navvies to build it for you!
Boat horse pulling boat on Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Boat Horse

Watch boat horse Bilbo Baggins pull a narrowboat through Bingley Five Rise Locks.

Mini Canal Adventure

Create your own canal adventure with characters and a story.

Model canal in sand tray

Build Your Own Canal

Eliza from the Learning & Skills team shows you how to build your own canal at home or in school using a tray, play sand and some everyday items.