At first, the docks were only accessible via the Basin for a few hours during high water.

While waiting, ships could anchor to the east of the docks between Barry Island and Sully Island.

The Lady Windsor Lock, opened on 4 January 1898, was named after the wife of the chairman of the company.

It is 647 by 65 feet (197 by 20 m) and opens into the sea to the west of the Basin.

The lock is 60 feet (18 m) deep.
It could be divided into two locks, using a gate about one third of the way from the sea entrance.

In its day, the Lady Windsor lock was said to be the largest and deepest lock in the world.

Vessels that draw 13 feet (4.0 m) can enter and leave the dock at low water during ordinary spring tides.

Vessels that draw 18 feet (5.5 m) can enter at low water 15 days per month.

As of 1924, the channel leading to the lock was dredged to 13 feet (4.0 m).

Ships generally use Lady Windsor Lock, whilst the Basin serves as an alternative for large-beamed vessels or cases where the Lady Windsor lock gates are being repaired.
At first, the docks were only accessible via the Basin for a few hours during high water.
While waiting, ships could anchor to the east of the docks between Barry Island and Sully Island.
The Lady Windsor Lock, opened on 4 January 1898, was named after the wife of the chairman of the company.
It is 647 by 65 feet (197 by 20 m) and opens into the sea to the west of the Basin.
The lock is 60 feet (18 m) deep. It could be divided into two locks, using a gate about one third of the way from the sea entrance.
In its day, the Lady Windsor lock was said to be the largest and deepest lock in the world.
Vessels that draw 13 feet (4.0 m) can enter and leave the dock at low water during ordinary spring tides.
Vessels that draw 18 feet (5.5 m) can enter at low water 15 days per month.
As of 1924, the channel leading to the lock was dredged to 13 feet (4.0 m).
Ships generally use Lady Windsor Lock, whilst the Basin serves as an alternative for large-beamed vessels or cases where the Lady Windsor lock gates are being repaired.
Barry Docks