Skip to main content

The charity making life better by water

Archaeological survey in Aylesbury unearths canal towpath history

We're working with a team of local metal detectorists on a one off project to help uncover the 200-year history of the Grand Union Canal in Aylesbury.

Metal Detecting

The volunteer detectorists, engaged through the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme and under special licence from us, are working along the stretch of the Aylesbury Arm Canal towpath whilst it is currently being resurfaced.

The towpath works are being carried out by us thanks to funding received from Buckinghamshire County Council. Once completed local people will have easy access to their local waterways and enjoy a puddle free commute to work or walk to school.

By removing layers of the existing towpath, the detectorists, working in a strictly controlled environment to ensure services running within the towpath aren't damaged in any way, search for any metal items that have been accidentally dropped or deliberately discarded throughout the life of the canal from its construction in 1815 to today. From analysis of these finds, our heritage experts will build up a picture of how the towpath was used in the past, and by whom.

A fascinating insight

Phil Emery, our heritage advisor said: "This project is providing a fascinating insight into the canal's rich history. There is a great sense of anticipation as we simply don't know what we will find. We have already recovered an early chisel, possibly used for repairs to a narrowboat, a number of coins, and a cap-badge of the Royal Green Jackets. This last find begs the question: were soldiers from this infantry regiment training on the towpath?"

"Whilst of no monetary value these items are of archaeological interest because they tell us about everyday life on the towpath. Each find is helping us to unlock the social history of the waterways."

"Whilst we don't want people taking it upon themselves to dig up and damage the towpath we would be keen to hear from local people if they have found items when visiting the Aylesbury Arm. Each archaeological find is another puzzle piece of canal history and we are keen to try and piece this jigsaw together."

Once the project is finished it is hoped to display the finds in a local museum.

Two women eat lunch next to the canal

Wellbeing on your doorstep

Find somewhere beautiful to rest, relax and recharge. Discover what's local to you

Last Edited: 21 November 2017

photo of a location on the canals
newsletter logo

Stay connected

Sign up to our monthly newsletter and be the first to hear about campaigns, upcoming events and fundraising inspiration