The Story of our Waterways Here at the Canalside Heritage Centre we want as many people as possible to discover the rich and fascinating heritage of the waterways. These stories are told in our exhibitions at the Heritage Centre but you can also find out more here, just click on the videos below. Nottingham and Beyond The emergence of the Industrial Revolution is intricately linked with the establishment of the canals and both had an enormous impact on the local landscape and the way in which people lived. Narrow Boat: How one man's journal helped preserve our waterways With the decline of industry, the waterways underwent another transformation in the 20th century with more and more people using them for leisure activities and wanting to preserve their heritage. This was in no small part down to the writings of L.T.C Rolt who documented his travels along the canals of the Midlands. Bendigo: The Nottingham Jester The Beeston Lock and Rylands area has been home to many characters through the years and none have been more notable than William 'Bendigo' Thompson, the most prominent boxer of the Victorian era. To discover more about the local waterways and the people who have lived and worked on them, be sure to visit the Canalside Heritage Centre.