When opened in 1789, the Sapperton Tunnel on the Thames and Severn Canal was the longest in the world at 3,817 yards. It was superceded by the Standedge Canal which opened in 1811 and was (and is!) an impressive 3 miles and 57 yards in length.
It was constructed via 26 vertical shafts between 1784 and 1789 and was built without a towpath so boats had to be ‘legged’ through. Most traffic had ceased by 1911 and the canal was formally abandoned in 1933. Navigation was possible with difficulty until the 1960s when roof falls in areas of Fullers Earth blocked the navigation. Restoration is proposed by the Costwold Canals Trust as part of a plan to re-establish a through route to the Thames.
Both portals are listed and saw some restoration in the late 20th century. The northern portal is listed Grade II and the southern at Coates (where the map pin is located) at Grade II*.