Why did canals have towpaths?

Answer 1

When first constructed, barges had no motor to propel them , Hence to move along a canal horses were used.

The barge in the canal ; the horse on the tow path ; a rope was attached between the barge and the horse, and the horse moved forward. Because the barge was in a 'soft' medium' ; water, the horse did not have to put in too much effort to move the barge.

There would be a bargemen to steer the barge , and an hostler to guide the horse.

In this modern era, barges, whilst looking like old time barges, do have a motor, so the use of an horse is no longer required.

Answer 2

Because canal barges were drawn by horses before engines were ever thought of....