Listen to this articleTitle: The Iron Trunk Aqueduct – A Marvelous Piece of Engineering
Are you in the mood for a stunning photo opportunity? Look no further than the Iron Trunk Aqueduct. This breathtaking Georgian structure spanning the Grand Union Canal over the River Ouse is an impressive 10.8 meters high and connects Wolverton with Cosgrove. It’s a must-see for fans of history, engineering, and just plain awe-inspiring structures.
The Grand Junction Canal was designed to cross the River Great Ouse, which was the lowest point between the summits at Tring and Braunston. At first, the canal descended to cross the river on the level with a series of locks. But in 1805, a three-arch brick viaduct designed by William Jessop was opened to reduce water loss and delays. Unfortunately, the structure collapsed in 1808, causing a legal dispute and loss of trade for the Grand Junction Company.
But out of this chaos came the opportunity for Benjamin Bevan, an engineer employed by the canal company, to design a replacement structure. Bevan adopted the cast iron trough aqueducts designed by Thomas Telford for the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and the result was the magnificent Iron Trunk Aqueduct that still stands today.
Walking or boating across the Iron Trunk Aqueduct offers an unparalleled view of the stunning Georgian architecture. And while you’re at it, take a stroll down the river to see the medieval village ruins. The Iron Trunk Aqueduct is a remarkable testament to the engineering prowess of the time, and a must-visit for anyone interested in history or engineering.
