The Limehouse Cut is a largely straight, broad canal in the East End of London which links the lower reaches of the Lee Navigation to the River Thames. Opening on 17 September 1770, and widened for two-way traffic by 1777, it is the oldest canal in the London area. Although short, it has a diverse social and industrial history. Formerly discharging directly into the Thames, since 1968 it has done so indirectly by a connection through Limehouse Basin.
Looking North East along the Limehouse Cut
Limehouse Cut in 1809 — apparently being widened. In the background is St Anne's Church and the recently built Commercial Road.
River Thames or Limehouse end, including the basin and its island (arrow)
The Marquess of Salisbury, chief promoter of the scheme
The Lee Navigation is a canalised river incorporating the River Lea. It flows from Hertford Castle Weir to the River Thames at Bow Creek; its first lock is Hertford Lock and its last Bow Locks.
Lee Navigation at Bow Creek
Old Ford Lock, Lee Navigation
Hertford Basin, the first marina on the Navigation
Looking west from the North Circular Road at Edmonton