West Mills Swing Bridge, Newbury.
The Kennet & Avon Canal is known for its heavy locks and swing bridges. West Mills Swing Bridge in Newbury is one of these. Just west of the town and town lock, it provides access to properties. The towpath also crosses over at this point.
There were two water mills at this point – one, presumably, on the left, where a water channel can be seen. The other was on the right, nearer town lock, by the church. The four windows that can be seen in the building in the centre of the picture are the flats where this mill was located.
The bridge is hydraulically operated – boaters use their BW key to turn the controller on. Now, it’s just a case of pressing buttons to lower the barriers and swing the bridge. Until last year, the barriers had to be lowered manually.
There are some very historic properties alongside the canal, including some 17th century cottages. West Mills Wharf is home to small businesses – there doesn’t appear to be any information available online regarding historic use.
One a beautiful sunny day like today, this was an easy shot to take. However, as it is still early in the season, there are not many boats moving. In the summer, it should be easier to include a boat going through West Mills Swing Bridge!
Photograph Details
- Taken: 27 Mar 2017
- Camera: Canon 5D MkIII
- Lens: Canon EF 24-70mm 1:2.8 L II USM
- Focal Length 24mm
- F/8
- 1/320 Sec
- ISO 100
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