The Helix Bridge, Paddington Basin

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Opened in 1801, the Grand Union Canal is the longest single canal in the UK and links London with Birmingham, with 'arms' branching outwards to Slough, Warwick and Northampton. This virtual tour was captured inside the glass bridge above the Grand Union Canal on the Paddington arm of the Canal, at Paddington Basin. The Grand Union Canal at this point comes close to other canals, such as the Grand Junction Canal and the Regent's Canal, but the basin marks the terminus of the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union.

The Paddington Basin area was run down for many years, but has recently been developed as part of an extensive regeneration plan for the area. The new development comprises office, retail and residential space. The area's past neglect is hard to understand given the areas proximity to central London, within easy walking distance of Oxford Street, and with good transport links from Edgware Road and Paddington. The regeneration of the Paddington Basin has brought new life to this area of London.

The Helix Bridge retracts like a corkscrew to allow boats to pass through. Please click on the thumbnail image below to view the full screen virtual tour of the Helix Bridge.