I hope this guide will provide an interesting introduction to the lowland canals for newcomers, and a useful information source for everyone. I have documented each canal separately, so just follow the links below to find what you want:

• Union Canal Updated!
• Forth & Clyde Canal Updated!
• Monkland Canal
• Glasgow, Paisley and Johnstone Canal

For the Union and Forth & Clyde canals, you will see a map of the canal and can click on any section for more detailed information. The Monkland Canal and the Paisley Canal have only one page each so far, as I don't have enough information on these canals to produce detailed guides yet.

I've also written a short description of the canals' history, which you can read here. For a more detailed history, try reading some of the books available (see recommended reading for details).

But the canals, like most places, can only really be appreciated by actually visiting them. If, like me, you don't have a car, it can be difficult to get to some of the places. Click here for some tips on how to get to the canals by public transport.

With substantial sections of the canals now reopened, I've put together a little guide for people who may want to make use of it for boating. You can read it here. Updated!

to the main canal page