towpath
Quick Summary
A towpath is a path alongside a canal or river that was historically used by draft animals, such as horses, to tow boats. These paths, also called towing paths, were essential for moving goods and people along inland waterways before the widespread use of powered vessels. While their original purpose of animal haulage has largely ended, towpaths remain valuable for canal inspection, maintenance, and sometimes for local mechanical tractor use. They are considered a type of footpath or road.1234
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