Manchester Ship Canal

The Manchester Ship Canal is a waterway in Greater Manchester that connects the city with the sea over 36 miles. Five lock systems allow ships to travel between the inland area and the Irish Sea.

The opening took place in 1894 after years of construction and overcame economic and technical obstacles. The project turned the city into the third largest port in Britain and changed trade routes permanently.

The waterway once turned the city into an inland port and gave it direct access to global trade routes. This economic shift shaped generations of workers and changed the identity of the entire region.

The canal remains active today and carries cargo ships and tankers through the locks. Visitors can walk along the towpaths and watch ships pass or see the lock systems in operation.

A movable aqueduct carries an older canal over the water and swings aside when larger ships need to pass. This technical solution from the 19th century is still in operation today.

Location: Manchester

Official opening: May 21, 1894

GPS coordinates: 53.40348,-2.46241

Latest update: December 12, 2025 23:14