I was really fascinated by the workings of the Regent's Canal Dock when I was shown by my friend on arrival in London. I would called this simply the miracle wonder of the man's mind. The Regent's canal was opened in 1820 to connect to River Thames for coal shipment.
What is interesting is the simple workings of the canal junction where one higher canal meet another canal with a lower water level. In order for the boat to turn into the lower canal, the boat operator has to open a gate to allow the water to flow into a basin so as to create a water level of similar height. From my understand, hydraulic power is in use here. Once the boat passes through, the boat operator once again closes the gate and thus creating 2 different water levels again until the next boat comes along.
I suppose it is not easy to imagine how this works and you will have to really see for yourself to believe and understand it.
It is just simply amazing how one can think of ways and means to provide transportation in the olden days. This system is still in use in "The Regent's Canal" near Islington/Angel Station. There are 10 such canal docks along the famous River Thames in London.
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