Beneath the tranquil surface of Norfolk’s countryside lies an extraordinary feat of Georgian engineering – the North Walsham & Dilham Canal. Opened in 1826 as Norfolk’s only locked canal, this 8.7-mile waterway once buzzed with wherries carrying coal, timber, and agricultural goods. Today, after decades of neglect, it’s experiencing a remarkable renaissance thanks to dedicated volunteers. This guide unveils:
The canal’s innovative design and industrial importance
Antingham Mills – the twin engines that powered the system
Precise water management techniques ahead of their time
The inspiring restoration story, from decay to revival
How to explore this living piece of history today
Chapter 1: Antingham Mills – The Canal’s Powerhouse
The Twin Mills That Made It Work
At the heart of the canal system stood two remarkable structures – Upper and Lower Antingham Mills. More than just grain mills, they formed an integrated water management system that kept the canal operational for over a century.
Feature
Upper Antingham Mill
Lower Antingham Mill
Primary Function
Commercial grain milling
Canal water regulation
Construction
3-storey brick with 18ft wheel
Massive sluice gates & bywash
Daily Output
3 tons of flour at peak
Controlled 5-mile canal stretch
Current Status
Private residence
Partially restored (2019)
Engineering Marvels
The mills showcased remarkable innovations:
Water Control System
Gravity-fed from the River Ant
Three-stage filtration using Norfolk flint
Automatic overflow channels
Industrial Legacy
Lasted 108 years of continuous operation
Inspired later East Anglian water systems
Worked in tandem with Honning Lock
“The Antingham complex represents one of England’s earliest examples of multi-purpose water management – simultaneously milling grain while maintaining navigable conditions. This was cutting-edge technology in 1826.”- Prof. William Harrod, Industrial Archaeology Journal
Chapter 2: Water Management Mastery
The sophisticated water control system that maintained perfect balance
The Three-Way Balancing Act
Engineers faced an unprecedented challenge:
Navigation: Maintain a minimum 4ft depth
Milling: Provide constant water power
Flood Control: Protect adjacent farmland
Key Innovations
1. The Tidal Solution
At Dilham, special gates opened during high tides to:
Flush out accumulated silt
Replenish freshwater supplies
Prevent saltwater intrusion
2. The Bywash Network
7 emergency overflow channels:
Lined with local flint stones
Automatically activated
Prevented bank erosion
3. Flash Lock Technology
Temporary dams created:
Controlled water surges
Cleared debris
Assisted barge movements
Chapter 3: The Restoration Journey
Phase 1: Rescue (2008-2015)
2008: Canal Trust was founded after a survey showed 60% structure intact
2011: First volunteer work party clears 300m of towpath
2013: Historic England adds canal to Heritage at Risk Register
2015: Major grant secures Lower Mill sluice repairs
Phase 2: Rebirth (2016-2022)
2017: Honning Lock re-watered after 80 years dry
2019: Traditional brickmakers recreate 1826-style lock bricks
2021: First trial canoe passage through restored section
2022: Wildlife survey records 37 new species since restoration began
Phase 3: The Future (2023-2030)
2024: Planned reopening of the Ebridge Mill section
2026: Bicentenary celebrations with a working wherry replica
2028: Target for 3 continuous navigable miles
2030: Full feasibility study for complete restoration
Restoration Challenges Overcome
Structural Issues
Rebuilding collapsed culverts using 3D mapping
Recreating traditional lime mortar mixes
Stabilising eroded banks with coir matting
Ecological Balance
Controlling invasive Himalayan balsam
Reintroducing native water plants
Creating otter holts and kingfisher banks
Chapter 4: Experiencing the Canal Today
Must-See Locations
1. Honning Lock
The best-preserved lock with:
Original 1826 brickwork
Newly restored paddle gear
Interpretation panels
Parking: NR28 9NY
2. Antingham Mill Complex
See:
Restored sluice mechanisms
Miller’s cottage foundations
Original limekilns
Guided tours: First Saturday monthly
3. Ebridge Mill
Highlights include:
Working waterwheel replica
Exhibition on canal history
Café with archive photos
Visitor Tips
Best time: Spring for wildlife, autumn for colours
Footwear: Waterproof boots are essential
Photography: Early morning for best light
Accessibility: 2km accessible path at Honning
Conclusion: A Living Legacy
The North Walsham & Dilham Canal represents more than just industrial archaeology – it’s a testament to human ingenuity and community spirit. From its innovative water management systems to the ongoing restoration, this waterway continues to teach us valuable lessons about sustainable land use and heritage preservation.
