Canals were the product and the engine of the Industrial Revolution. Connecting the centre of trade in London with the industrial Midlands from the end of the 18th century, the 40,000 miles canal system was instrumental in shaping British economy and landscape.

Coming through Willesden in 1801, the Paddington Branch of the Grand Junction Canal changed the fortunes of the old parish, for better or for worse. After a brief overview of the history of the canal system in England, we concentrate on the Brent’s section of the canal, its place in the grand scheme of things, role in the local economy, and the canal’s heritage now; as a green corridor and local public amenity.