We are dedicated to Exeter’s canal.

Membership of the Friends is open to everyone

who values and loves this historic waterway,

whether as a user on the water, for recreation,

or simply strolling along its peaceful banks.

News Stories

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The entrance to the Basin

The Ship Canal, 1855

This show is a one-off!

The First Cut or Isabella’s Revenge—the musical that tells the story of Exeter Ship Canal from the first shovel of earth to its last commercial use—is being revived for three nights at Powderham Castle in September. Book here.

THE FIRST CUT (POWDERHAM CASTLE) POSTER_

‘In the interests of Exeter, think again,’ the Canal Friends urge the City Council and Canal Trust

The Friends of Exeter Ship Canal have called on the City Council and Exeter Canal and Quay Trust to rethink the office plan for Maclaines Warehouses and work together for the future of the waterway which is one of Exeter’s unique assets. Read more…

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EXETER CANAL AND QUAY TRUST SAYS ‘NO’ TO FRIENDS’ VISION FOR THE BASIN

The proposal by the Friends of Exeter Ship Canal to begin the revival of the Canal Basin with an exciting scheme for boatyard and community activities in the empty Maclaines Warehouse was rejected by Exeter Canal and Quay Trust in favour of turning the historic waterside building into offices. Read the reasons the Trust gave here........

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BRING BACK A MARITIME BUZZ TO THE CANAL BASIN

The Friends of Exeter Ship Canal have an exciting plan to revive the life of the Canal Basin, starting with Maclaines Warehouses. It involves communities and maritime businesses, as well as the city council and Exeter Canal and Quay Trust getting their act together. Read more…

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FRIENDS OBJECT TO OFFICES PLAN AT THE CANAL BASIN

The Friends of Exeter Ship Canal have strongly objected to a planning application to turn empty Maclaines Warehouses on the Canal Basin into offices. They are the last unoccupied buildings on the Basin and should be returned to uses that will complement and revive the waterway, the Friends say. Read the letter to the planners here.

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A better future for Exeter Ship Canal?

Exeter City Council has commissioned consultants to advise on a masterplan for the future of Exeter Ship Canal. The Friends believe this is an opportunity to revive the canal by improving its use as a waterway. Here is what the Friends sent to the council and the consultants when they were appointed. Read more...