Exploring the Historic Braunston Tunnel on the Grand Union Canal

This is a full-length, real-time video of my journey on the Grey Wagtail through the Braunston Tunnel.
👉 My day one adventures, including the tunnel, can be found here - • Day 1: My First Narrow...
The Braunston Tunnel is an iconic feature of the Grand Union Canal. The tunnel is located near the village of Braunston in Northamptonshire.
The Braunston Tunnel, which is 1,873 m (2,048 yards; 1.16 miles) long, was completed in 1796. It was engineered as part of the original Grand Junction Canal.
Key Tunnel Facts:
Length: 1,873 m (2,048 yards; 1.16 miles)
Width: 3.81 m (12 feet 6 inches)
Height: 2.29 m (7 feet 6 inches)
Average transit time: 37 minutes
Ventilation Shafts: 3
There is no towpath inside the tunnel, so boatmen historically had to "leg" their boats through, using the tunnel walls for support. In 1870, a steam engine was installed to haul boats through the tunnel on an endless wire rope. It didn't work, so in 1871, a steam tug was brought in to tow boats through the tunnel for one and sixpence (7.5 p) - empty boats were cheaper.
Related Videos
Day one of my first cruise (including the tunnel) - • Day 1: My First Narrow...
The Braunston Tunnel Horse Path - • Exploring the Historic...
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[@dwrowley]

love the sound of the engine through the tunnel

[@Nicks-Wanderings]

I know, it's great.....

[@JayProkofiev]

Great job Nick. I'm really enjoying your channel.

[@Nicks-Wanderings]

Great, thanks. And thanks for the comment.

[@johnhart868]

You put some really good content in your videos brilliant.

[@Nicks-Wanderings]

Thanks. I have interest in science and history, so expect the occasional fact to be slipped in.

[@monostripeexplosiveexplora2374]

very cool

[@Nicks-Wanderings]

Thanks