Gloucester & Sharpness Canal. Pt1 Sharpness Old Docks Ep 26.

The old docks at Sharpness, England have a rich and fascinating history that dates back over two centuries. Located on the River Severn in Gloucestershire, these docks were once a bustling hub of trade and commerce, serving as a vital transportation link between the Midlands and the rest of the world.
The Sharpness docks were first constructed in the early 1800's as part of a larger project to improve navigation on the River Severn. The river had long been a difficult waterway to navigate due to its strong tides and shifting sandbars, which made it nearly impossible for larger ships to travel upriver. The construction of the Sharpness docks, along with the widening and deepening of the river channel, made it possible for large vessels to make their way inland, opening up new markets and opportunities for trade.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the docks at Sharpness were a vital center of industry and commerce, serving as a hub for the transportation of goods such as coal, timber, and iron ore. Ships from all over the world came to dock at Sharpness, including those from Canada, Australia, and South America.
The docks also played an important role in World War II, serving as a base for the Royal Navy and a hub for the transportation of troops and supplies. In fact, it was at Sharpness that the first American troops landed in Britain during the war.
Today, the old docks at Sharpness are a popular destination for tourists and history buffs. Many of the original buildings and structures still stand, including the impressive Victorian-era warehouses and the iconic swing bridge that spans the entrance to the docks. The docks are also home to a number of businesses and shops, including a maritime museum and a cafe.
Despite their long and storied history, the old docks at Sharpness are no longer used for commercial shipping. However, they remain an important reminder of the vital role that transportation and commerce have played in the development of England and the world as a whole.
Links
SARA: / sarasharpness
Harbour Trustees: gloucesterharb...
Music: EpidemicSound.com
Headed to the Hillside - American Legion
www.youtube.co...

[@TheKayakCrew]

Very interesting and informative. Ironic that the original dock on the canal was made redundant by the growing size of ships.

[@idocanals]

Thanks KayakCrew. Indeed and not that long after original build.

[@Jimimac73]

Excellent edit and informative presentation with a bit of oooh er missus narration very informative and light entertainment 😁 A+

[@idocanals]

Thank you Jimimac. We very much enjoy both the research and a bit of light goofing as well.

[@stu9409]

No mention of the school ship Vindicatrix then. The old toilet block is still there.

[@idocanals]

Thanks Stu. We did record a little about the Vindicatrix, sadly the audio was awful and we could not use the section.

[@ritchieb1804]

My late brother did his merchant navy training at/on the Vindicatrix sea training school. It apparently was tough.

[@colinbeckett9478]

the windlesses where electric and install by the American army in the 2nd WW,

[@idocanals]

I did not know that. I new the the American Army used the docks but not about the windlasses. Thanks.