Get Involved

Get a buzz out of bumblebees?

Join our volunteer bumblebee surveys along the Union Canal in Edinburgh to learn more about these fascinating furry creatures and the vital role they play in the environment.

Using resources provided by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust (BBCT), we will be assessing a stretch of the canal once a month between March and October. Bumblebee sightings will contribute to the BBCT’s National ‘BeeWalk’ database and to the Scottish Canals environmental heritage team who will be pleased to have up-to-date information on these crucial contributors to the general health of the canal environment.

Are you a seasoned bee buff or just want to get with the buzz on the Canal? Come along!

The Caledonian Canal was built between 1804 and 1822. It was designed by Thomas Telford and represents a remarkable feat of engineering.

Bona Lighthouse was built around 1815 to designs by Thomas Telford. Inland lighthouses are uncommon in Scotland and the stunning oriel bay window, which once held the light that guided ships from Loch Ness onto the Caledonian Canal in its heyday, remains the focal point of the cottage. The octagonal shape of the building closely follows the types of design Telford used elsewhere for tollhouses.

Join our Canal Officer for Cultural Heritage for informal talks and guided tours of Bona Lighthouse which don’t need to be booked in advance.

Scottish Canals has recently refurbished the building which can now be booked as a holiday let.

www.scottishcanals.co.uk

www.scottishwaterwaystrust.org.uk

Architect: Thomas Telford
Building Date: 1815 approx

Take a trip along the Forth & Clyde Canal and explore its rich industrial heritage. You will travel through the wildlife corridor that is the canal in North Glasgow.

The history of Maryhill’s oldest building is deeply linked to the Forth & Clyde canal, with its origins as a public house selling groceries and alcohol to locals and to passing boatmen. There will be an exhibition for visitors, detailing the history of the building and the canal.

The White House is an important early historical landmark in the Maryhill area. It was built in the late 18th century, around the time of the construction of the west side of the Forth and Clyde Canal, the oldest and the longest canal in Scotland, which was completed in 1790.

The White House Inn was built as a public house for those using the canal network – it even served as Maryhill’s first post office. It is situated at the head of Maryhill Locks, near where the main canal joins the spur to Speirs Wharf.

Throughout the week, the building will host an exhibition by Scottish Waterways Trust, detailing the history of the canal in the area.
The White House is now occupied by cycling charity Free Wheel North, who will be organising rickshaw rides along the canal towpath during the Doors Open Day weekend.

Discover Glasgow’s Industrial Heritage: The White House, Maryhill, has played an important role in the history of Scotland’s canal network. In 2015, newly repurposed as a cycling hub which takes advantage of the extensive network of canal towpaths and river walkways, the White House is still relevant to how people of the area think about transportation.

Opening Times - Tue, Wed, Sat & Sun 10am – 4pm

Access - Full Disabled Access

Facilities - Disabled Toilet, Toilets, Refreshments Available

Nearest Train or Subway Station(s): Maryhill, Kelvindale & Summerston
Parking: Car Park Available On-Site – Free of Charge
For more information: http://glasgowdoorsopenday.com/event/white-house-inn/

Scottish Waterways Trust and Archaeology Scotland are returning to the Falkirk Lock Flight to continue the site management work started by canal college®. This day of action will include vegetation management, path maintenance, site survey and photography, all under the supervision of Scottish Waterways Trust and Archaeology Scotland. This workshop is part of the Adopt-a-Monument 2015 roadshow - a week long project which will provide free and ‘open to all’ training to a variety of communities throughout Scotland. We will provide all the equipment - you just need to turn up!

Meet at The Falkirk Wheel at 10am. Booking essential. To book a place please contact Gemma on [email protected] or 07795315434 . Travel bursaries from the Falkirk area are available - please ask for one when booking a spot.