Interactive audio trail celebrates the Montgomery Canal

A new interactive audio trail has been launched to celebrate the history, heritage and wildlife of the Montgomery Canal – which begins in Newtown before winding its way through the Severn Valley and into North Powys.

The 33-mile canal, first opened more than 200 years ago, starts at Pool Road in Newtown and runs through Berriew, Welshpool and on to Llanymynech before crossing the border into England. Now, thanks to school pupils and local residents, its stories are being brought to life through an online trail that people can enjoy either as they walk along the towpath or from home.

Children from Arddleen, Carreghofa and Llandysilio primary schools worked with Glandŵr Cymru, the Canal & River Trust in Wales, to capture memories and experiences of those who have lived alongside the waterway. The result is an audio guide featuring voices from the community alongside heritage and wildlife insights.

“The Montgomery Canal holds a special place in the hearts of those who live nearby, rich with personal stories and historical significance,” explained Sara James, project manager at the Canal & River Trust. “Collaborating with local schools gave us the chance to share the knowledge of the canal with a new generation, while recording memories that might otherwise be lost.”

With 126 listed structures along its length and designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, the canal is internationally renowned for its rare floating water plantain and other wildlife.

The audio trail, called Voices of the Canal, is available on the Canal & River Trust website. It has been created with support from heritage specialists Keystone Heritage and is part of a wider UK Government-funded restoration project.

Work is already under way on a 4.4-mile stretch between Llanymynech and Maerdy, in partnership with Powys County Council. The aim is to restore the canal for future generations, supporting biodiversity while creating social, environmental and economic benefits for Mid Wales and the border region.