Canals: An old form of transport transformed into a new form of heritage tourism experience

This chapter examines how canals and canal precincts have enjoyed a resurgence in interest as heritage sites. The chapter also suggests how canals can be described in terms of the elements of the landscapes through which they pass and proposes a model to explain the transformation of canal systems from transport corridors into tourism resources. A triple bottom line approach is suggested as a useful framework for the study of canal tourism. Issues that the reborn canal sector may have to face in the future are also considered.