Lancaster Canal

Kendal to Holme - 20th May 2017

Northern Reaches, near Kendal

I stayed overnight in Carnforth with the purpose to walk on the Northern Reaches of the Lancaster Canal.  The canal from Tewitfield to Kendal has been fragmented in several sections when the M6 motorway was built in the 1960s and more so when the key roads were upgraded.  The Lancaster Canal Trust is currently restoring this stretch where it is hoped one day boats will able to cruise up to Kendal via the Tewitfield Locks (which are about to be restored as I blog).  

I caught a bus (No. 555) to Kendal.  It took me a while to find The Canal Head where the canal used to start from.  The original line can be seen in Kendal and today it is public footpath.  Walking out of Kendal and following the signs to Sedgwick via open farmland, I met a couple who were disappointed to see the canal infilled though remnants including the bridges and towpath lines can be seen.

There were a series of diversions as the canal is cut by the A590 road before I reached Hincaster Tunnel.  The tunnel is listed as an Ancient Monument and this 19th Century structure originally took the canal near Sedgwick Gunpowder Works.  Another diversion followed and I rejoined the canal and for a bit I finally saw water!  Two swans hissed at me passing and I didn't realise until afterwards they were ferociously guarding their offspring. 

Passing through Stainton I reached Crooklands where I stopped in the hotel for an overdue drink and comfort break.  Lancaster Canal Trust offers trips on their NB Waterwitch and the village's wharf was once a coal yard which was once transported on the canal.

It was then only a couple of miles or so to Holme via the noisy M6 motorway but I was surrounded by stunning countryside of the Lakeland Fells.  There were some diversions as the canal was culverted in places and I eventually reached Holme, my destination, and finished at Bridge 149.  I walked down the road to the village where I caught the bus back to Carnforth. 

Holme to Carnforth - 6th May 2017

The Northern Reaches, Tewitfield

Starting at Carnforth I caught the Kendal bound Bus (No. 555) to Holme in Cumbria.  At Holme I walked up the village road and joined the canal.  Enroute I was greeted by fellow walkers, some with their dogs, and it felt odd not seeing any narrowboats on somewhat a pretty stretch of the Lancaster Canal.  One day boats will be seen passing this un-navigable stretch of this canal as it's currently being slowly restored.  There were some small unpowered craft and canoes dotted about though.

Despite the noisy M6, the motorway responsible for fragmenting the canal, it was a pleasure walking in wonderful countryside enroute to Tewitfied.  At Cinderbarrow the motorway culverted the canal and I had to divert via Cinderbarrow Lane and crossed the bridge over the motorway towards the Tewitfield Locks.

There are eight locks which ascend/descend over three quarters of a mile to/down 75 feet.  Opened in 1819 and were last used in 1942.  At the end of the Northern Reaches I left the canal and visited Longlands Hotel for a coffee and comfort stop.  I fancied some cake to go with my coffee and the staff happily obliged in giving me a complimentary delicious brownie.  The Longlands Hotel is a lovely place to enjoy a meal or a drink or even stay and is supported by very friendly staff who go out of their way to make you feel welcome.  

Afterwards I walked to the terminius (for boaters) where I read about the canal's restoration beyond Tewitfield.  It was originally the terminus before the canal was extended to Kendal in 1819 and became again in 1968 when the M6 was constructed.  Currently the terminus constitutes a marina, moorings and turning point for boats.  I continued walking towards Borwick, the Keer Aqueduct and the Capernwray Canal Arm (where limestone was transported on the canal from Wegber Quarry). 

The walk to Carnforth though surrounded with countryside and the occasional noise from the M6 was uneventful and I finished the walk at Bridge 128.  Had a well earned drink at the Royal Station Hotel before getting my train home. 

Carnforth to Lancaster - 27th March 2018

Lancaster Canal, near Hest Bank

On a sunny Monday I caught a train to Carnforth and joined the canal in the town centre where I began walking down to Lancaster.  The walk is approximately eight to nine miles.  I couldn't ask for a better day weatherwise and it was pleasure walking on its towpath with the surrounding open countryside.

After passing Bolton Le Sands I saw stunning views of the coast and Morecambe Bay's blue waters and reached Hest Bank Hotel for a drink stop.  After having a drink I continued along the tow path towards Lancaster via the beautiful Lune Aqueduct, the city centre's outskirts, the cathedral and finished at Bridge 100 besides the White Cross Pub.  After having dinner in the city centre I made my way to the railway station for my train home to Leeds. 

Galgate to Lancaster - 21st May 2017

Lancaster Canal, between Galgate and Lancaster

I did an unventful walk from north Galgate to Lancaster.  Originally I planned to get off the bus at Galgate Marina but it turned out I've got off too soon and ended up starting at Bridge No. 88 (instead of Bridge No. 86).  I thought at first I was going towards Glasson Docks Branch but it turned out I was going North and back to the city.

I found the stretch though pretty rather a bit dull.  There wasn't much to share on the walk except for the Deep Cutting, the largest on the canal, from Bridge 91.  It was such a beautiful stretch with its wooded environs and serene atmosphere.  After the cut I was soon approaching the outskirts of Lancaster.  In the distance the castle and the town vista can be seen.  I reached Lancaster Basin, one a hub of barges activity, and the Waterwitch Pub housed in the original canal stables.

I finished the walk the bridge after the Pub and made my way to the station for my train home.  Next walk will either be walking on the Glasson Docks Branch or walking from Garstang back up to Galgate (yes, in decent weather!).

Attempted walk on the Glasson Branch - 15th July 2017

Lune Esturary, near Lancaster

I caught an early train to Lancaster with the intention of doing a circular walk along the Glasson Branch of the Lancaster Canal.  My arrival in Lancaster was greeted with drizzly rain; I came prepared (except for my shoes!) so I thought the drizzle would pass away and the weather improve.  Wrong! The weather deteriorated as I was walking on the Lune Estuary Path passing Adcliffe, Stodday and reaching Condor Green!  After walking 5-6 miles and soaking wet I decided to call it a day and resorted in the nearest pub, The Stork!  I could see the dock and canal in the distance but it wasn't to be...saved for another day hopefully not a rainy one!

I had a lovely lunch and well deserved drink - I did spend a long time at the pub which gave me an opportunity to dry out and also waited for the next bus that would take me back to Lancaster.  The bus services from Condor Green to Lancaster are every 1.5-2 hours during the week and Saturday.  Caught the bus outside the pub and dropped me off in the city centre where I went to the railway station via the tourist information office.  At the station's Costa I saw Geoff and Vicki from "All the Stations".  I've been following their project on You Tube with interest as they are stopping at every railway station in Britain.  As of writing they have stopped at most of the stations and still travelling around the North of England and Scotland ticking them off.  A quick exchange of pleasantries and photo they were off on another train, stopping at another station...On my journey home the weather cleared of rain and the sun came out for a bit...typical!

My second attempt to walk the Glasson Dock Branch will have to come another day!

Glasson Branch to Potters Brook - 11th November 2017

Glasson Branch, Lancaster Canal

To attempt walking the Lancaster Canal's Glasson Branch I checked the weather beforehand.  The day I had available for walking on canal forecasted sunshine though cold so I took the opportunity to travel up to Lancaster.  It was an early start for me as I had to get a crucial bus connection to Glasson from Lancaster bus station.  Despite the bus being delayed I got to the village though missed the stop I suppose to have got off! I had to do a bit of a detour before reaching Glasson Basin.

It was lunch time before I started so decided to have my lunch before setting off.  I firstly had a quick look round the Basin and the Dock and then up the Branch I went.  The Branch, opened in 1787, is approximately 3.5 miles with six locks and it was an enjoyable and scenic walk ascending up.  The towpath,  however, was muddy (glad my new walking boots came in handy - certainly not a walk to do in trainers!).

It took me approximately 1.5 hours to reach the junction with the main Lancaster Canal; I then made a side trip to Galgate where I had a stop at the Canalside Craft Centre (a recommendable refreshment stop) and walked the stretch I haven't walked yet (up to Bridge 88).  After Galgate I retraced my steps and continued my pursuit towards Garstang.

I had underestimated the mileage to Garstang and there are the early dark nights so I decided to walk a further couple of miles down the canal towards Potters Brook at Bridge 81.  The stretch from the junction to Potters Brook was very scenic with the stunning autumn colours; particuarly the foilage around Ellel Bridge and it was nice seeing the mileage signs again towards Garstang.

I think I made a wise decision to finish at Potters Brook as it was starting to get dark when I finished and with a short walk to the bus stop on the A6 road I only waited a quarter an hour for the bus to Lancaster.  I had some food at a city centre pub, The Study Room, which was nice though dark with neon lighting, pretty loud and busy (it being early Saturday evening) and then hung around at the train station before catching my delayed train back to Leeds.

I'm pleased to have made further progress towards my adventure on the canal down to Preston and just approximately 22-23 miles to go before completion! 

Potters Brook to Garstang - 18th November 2017

Autumn on the Lancaster Canal

A week after my adventures on the Glasson Branch of the Lancaster Canal I was back! This time it was a walk from Potters Brook, where I finished previously, to Garstang.  It was approximately a six to seven mile walk though it felt longer because of the very muddy towpath.

At the beginning of the walk I walked through woodlands and admired the stunning autumn colours and it was out in open countryside for the remainder until I reached outskirts of Garstang.  As reflected in the photos you did feel that you were out in the middle of nowhere but it was nice to be out in the nature and away from it all.  

The villages I passed were Forton and Cabus which both offer moorings for boaters and nearer to Garstang there were private marinas and boatyards. There weren't much in the terms of interesting features and buildings on this stretch but enjoyable of its rural and scenic beauty.  I must admit I was pleased when I arrived in Garstang (finished at Bridge 62 at Kepple Lane) where I was able to get some food at The Tithe Barn Pub and get the bus back to Lancaster.

Still 16 miles or so to reach Preston and probably complete the remainder in three stretches which I plan to do at the end of the year. 

Garstang to Woodplumpton (overnight in Bilsborrow) - 22nd & 23rd December 2017

Sunset at Barton Grange, Lancaster Canal

I walked from Garstang to Woodplumpton, approximately 9 miles, over two days.  I chose to stay overnight in Bilsborrow to make the walking more of an adventure and the hotel I booked in was just a short walk from the canal.  I could have walked more but with the shorter days and muddy towpath I think the right decision was made to walk the miles I did.

I got a direct train from Leeds to Preston and walked through the city centre to its bus station.   I was very shocked to see how big and monstrous the bus station is and probably is the biggest bus station I've ever been to!  I waited a short while until I caught the bus to Garstang which took about 3/4  of an hour as there was a lot of traffic on the city's outskirts.

Got off in Garstang town centre - I'd love to have spent more time there but I was conscious about how much daylight I had left for walking and was keen to start walking on the canal sooner than later.  I started where I left off from last time and began the 5 mile walk to Bilsborrow; first crossing the River Wyre via its aqueduct and then it was uneventful until reaching Bilsborrow.  I notice the mile markers which measure the distance between Preston and Garstang and also crossed two other rivers, Calder and Brock, also via its aqueducts.

I marvelled at a lovely sunset at Barton Grange and at the same time a narrowboat was cruising towards me.  Bilsborrow is a quaint little village particularly for its themed thatched hamlet 'village' which consists of a restaurant, hotel and tavern.  There was a little funfair adjacent to the tavern which ran a Bavarian/Alpine theme.  I chose not to check out the themed village as it was starting to get dark so I decided to get some dinner at Turner Fish and Chips - I ate in the restaurant and enjoyed some delicious fish and chips.  Afterwards I checked in the Premier Inn (Preston North) across the Road.  It was a good afternoon walking though misty throughout.

Lancaster Canal, near Bilsborrow

Next morning and after a lie in and breakfast at the hotel, I continued the 4 mile walk towards Woodplumpton.  Again the walk was uneventful though you feel as if you were out in the middle of nowhere.  It was very rural which the Lancaster Canal is reputed for and I only saw a small handful of walkers and mostly with their dogs.  The challenge over the past couple of days was the very muddy towpath - my boots and bottom of my trousers were caked in mud!  It was also drizzly but fortunately not raining heavy. 

I reached Woodplumpton and it was a mile or so walk to the bus stop. I had a bit of a wait so I kept walking towards the village to keep warm as it started to get colder.  Eventually caught the bus to Preston and walking through the City Centre I caught my train back to Leeds.  I was impressed with what I saw in Preston; plenty of history and interesting buildings and though it was very busy I felt comfortable walking in the centre especially Fishergate, the main shopping street.  I certainly will be returning to Preston, probably twice to finish off the Lancaster Canal and do the Ribble Link in the New Year.

Only 10 miles or so to Ashton, the canal's current terminus! 

Bridgewater Canal

Manchester to Worsley - 29th October 2016  

Bridgewater Canal (Leigh Branch)

I did approximately 6-7 miles of canal walking on the Leigh Branch from Manchester to Worsley.  The walk was pleasant though unappealing at the beginning with its disused locks, a derelict feel and lots of graffiti.  We had drizzy weather throughout but I was prepared for all weather elements.

After crossing Waters Meeting Point, a big let down in my opinion, the scenery became pleasurable with its autumn colours of its trees.  It was interesting seeing the Barton Aqueduct though I was diverted to cross the Barton Swing Bridge) and approaching Worsley was a treat.  Worsley is such a exquisite village, steeped in history, with its pretty Packet House

Leigh to Worsley - 27th December 2016

Packet House, Worsley, Bridgewater Canal

I caught a bus from Manchester Piccadilly Gardens Exchange to Leigh. I've opted for a System One Day Saver ticket (equivalent of West Yorkshire's Metro Day Rover for buses). I have noted the prices for single bus journeys in Greater Manchester are ridiculously expensive.  After a long bus ride I eventually arrived in Leigh and the canal was just a short walk away. I didn't get to see Leigh properly but noted a number of historic red buildings in the vicinity of the bus station. 

At the beginning of the walk it was uneventful; just taking note of the old buildings which associated with Leigh's industrial past. Some have been restored since but others sadly have been left in a derelict state.  After 2.5 miles or so of walking I reached Astley Green. I wanted to visit the village's colliery museum but it doesn't open until 1.30pm. I decided not to hang around and continued on.  Also I was concious that it's winter and starts to get dark around 4.30pm and I don't want to be still on the canal when its dark. 

There were the challenges of the unpaved muddy towpath...I hope the Peel company does something about the towpath's state? I had to clean up my footwear before going into The Moorings Pub when I reached Boothstown...once cleaned I enjoyed my quick comfort stop.  At the pub I was surprised how close I am to Worsley...just under two miles and seeing the canal turn brown (from nearby former coal mines in the area) as we got nearer and nearer.

I arrived in Worsley ahead of schedule...had some time to explore more of this pretty village including its court house. I was last in Worsley in October 2016 when I walked on the Bridgewater Canal from Manchester and stopped at The Bridgewater Pub for a drink afterwards. The Bridgewater Pub (A Fayre & Square Chain Pub) is housed in a historic building, built in 1903, and was originally a hotel. It's a beautiful Victorian building with black and white exterior Tudor panelling and I had an enjoyable hearty meal there.  Eventually I caught the bus back to Manchester for my train home.

Ashton Canal

Ashton Under Lyne to Manchester - 20th October 2016

Ashton Canal, Manchester

My friend and I walked the whole of the Ashton Canal (October 2016) from Ashton Under Lyne to Manchester. The walk was approximately seven miles and we walked through Audenshaw, Farfield, Droylsden, Openshaw, Clayton, Bradford-With-Beswick, Holt Town, Ancoats and Manchester.  We were a bit concerned walking the Ashton Canal because of its reputation of past incidents from local youths and children. We found the canal pleasant and enjoyed Greater Manchester's suburbia and its industrial past!

We continued our walk through Manchester City Centre on the Rochdale Canal. We had an unpleasant and creepy walk underground at Piccadilly Lock 85.  We saw there a group of people openly smoking and taking drugs and I noticed needles on the tow path. Still we walked on and continued through Canal Street up to Lock 86.

Our ultimate aim is to walk the whole of the Cheshire Ring which covers six canals: Ashton, The Peak Forest, Macclesfield, Trent and Mersey, Bridgewater and Rochdale. Usually the canal journey is done anti-clockwise but we plan to do it clockwise.

Macclesfield Canal

Marple to Macclesfield - 9th March 2017

Bollington, Macclesfield Canal

On my 'time off in lieu' day from work I chose to begin my pursuit on the Macclesfield Canal.  I got a train to Marple, via Manchester Piccadilly, and ascended up the final eight locks on the Marple Flight to Marple Junction where the canal begins. The Macclesfield Canal was built in 1831 and situated in East Cheshire.

Macclesfield Canal is probably the most scenic canal I walked on...you feel as if you're really out in the countryside passing villages of High Lane, Higher Poynton and Bollington with its important Clarence Mill.  I had a 'middle of nowhere' feeling - it is very rural and Macclesfield is reliably the only place for a train home.  We passed villages of High Lane, Higher Poynton and Bollington with its impressive Clarence Mill.

What is unique on the Macclesfield Canal is the stone milestones which shows the distances from Marple and to Hall Green and its beautiful roving bridges.  I met a number of friendly passer-bys including boaters, dog walkers - including the deaf bull dog, Molly, who was sweet and soft as a brush, and a marine shop owner.

My main stop was at the Miners Arms in Four Ends for a drink  I reached Macclesfield just before it got dark - retreated at The Puss In Boots for a comfort stop before catching the train home.  Still have 15 miles or so to go before completing the canal.

Congleton to Macclesfield - 17th June 2017

Bosley Flight of Locks, Macclesfield Canal

I was looking forward to returning to the Macc! The Macclesfield Canal is certainly one of the most scenic canals I've walked on.  The canal is rural and meanders through open countryside and known for its Snake Bridges particularly, Folden Bank Bridge, the one I came across this stretch.

I started the walk from Congleton and walked approximately 10 miles or so to Macclesfield.  The challenge I faced was the hot weather and the stifling heat!  It was great to see blues skies and sunshine but the heat made walking hard!  I regularly sought refuge under the trees and bridges.  There was a lack of pubs/shops/facilities canalside along the stretch which was disappointing.  This meant relying on my own drinks supply and kindness from a narrowboat couple (with their lovely dog, Blossom) who gave me a much welcomed glass of water enroute.

The walk was uneventful from Congleton until reaching Bosley Locks Flight.  Ascending up the locks you can see the Pennines in the distance.  The canal was busy with boats particularly at the beginning and the end of the flight.  There was a problem with one of the gates so the locks were temporarily out of use until Canal and River Trust arrived to fix.

Rural from the locks through Oakgrove until reaching the outskirts of Macclesfield.  It was a shame to see the Fools Nook Pub closed - it would have been a perfect stop but I soldiered on...there was occasional traffic heard from the nearby Leek Old Road.  I eventually reached Macclesfield and returned to the Puss In Boots Pub where a well deserved drink was bought for me.  There was the party cruising crew who I kept meeting on my walk enjoying some well deserved drinks - the crew was doing a round trip cruise from Bollington to the locks as part of a special family birthday celebration.  

I stayed at the pub quite a while; ordered a lovely meal and another well deserved drink and eventually walked down the hill to the station for my train back to Manchester and then a connecting one to Leeds...the train was delayed near Huddersfield for some considerable time and I've received some compensation which will come in handy for a future canal adventure.

Just the final miles to go from Congleton to Harding Woods Junction before completion!

Congleton to Hardings Wood Junction- 24th June 2017

Macclesfield Canal

I returned to Congleton to walk the remaining stretch of the Macclesfield Canal.  Got off at Congleton Railway Station I picked up where I left off last time.  Passing Dog Lane Aqueduct and the Wharf I walked towards Bridge 86 where I would make a short round side trip to Little Moreton Hall.  As the stretch was shorter than what I usually do I thought I would take the opportunity to check out the National Trust's property.   

Little Moreton Hall

The stretch was rural throughout once I left Congleton - the canal was pretty busy with boaters passing by and cruising towards Macclesfield and Marple Junction.  Leaving Bridge 86 I braved the thistles and nettles and walked down towards Little Moreton Hall.  I reached the moated house, built in the 16th Century, where I had lunch in its grounds and took photos.  I passed on looking inside the house and visiting its tea room as I wanted to finish my walk in good time so returned to the canal.

Rest of the walk was uneventful until I reached the Poole Aqueduct where the Trent and Mersey Canal passes underneath and reached Bridge 98, the final bridge on the Macclesfield Canal and where both canals meet at Hardings Wood Junction, via its somewhat isolated towpath.

I had a well deserved drink at The Blue Bell Pub.  This traditional award winning pub is renowned for its real ales and ciders.  After the pub I made my way to Kidsgrove Railway Station and stopped at Harecastle Tunnel (Northern Portal) on the way.  I was lucky to see a couple of boats in action coming out and going in.  I had chat with the friendly tunnel keeper, Derek, who gave me a map for the overland walk on the tunnel towards Stoke on Trent (a future walk in the planning).  Retraced my steps to the station for my train home.

Reaching Hardings Wood Junction means I have now completed walking the Macclesfield Canal.  It was my first time walking on the very small stretch of the Trent and Mersey Canal and now look forward to future exciting adventures on the 93.5 mile canal.

Peak Forest Canal

Marple to Whaley Bridge/Bugsworth Basin - 8th October 2016

Upper Peak Forest Canal

I did approximately 6-8 miles of canal walking on Upper Peak Forest Canal from Marple to Whaley Bridge. I started at Lock 9, I think, of the Marple flight of locks. Reaching top of 16 locks and Marple junction, I "officially" began walking the lock free Upper Peak Forest Canal to Whaley Bridge via Disley and New Mills. 

The Peak Forest Canal is one of the most scenic canals I ever walked on with stunning views of the Furniss Vale, the Torrs and in the distance the hills of the Peak District. When I reached Whaley Bridge junction I made a side trip to Bugsworth Basin where I made a comfort stop at its nostalgic Navigation Inn and learnt about the area’s history. 

I’m now looking forward to completing the Peak Forest Canal, from Ashton Under Lyne to Marple.



Ashton Under Lyne to Marple - 18th February 2017

Near Marple, Peak Forest Canal

My friend and I made our way down to Portland Basin from the railway station.  We spent some time beforehand looking round the excellent and recommendable Industrial History Museum and paid a visit to its shop and cafe where we enjoyed a hot drink and homemade cake. It must have been just before 1.00pm when we began our walk on the Lower Peak Forest Canal, completed in 1805 and restored in 1974, at Dunkinfield Junction.  It was uneventful for the first couple of miles or so when we passed Hyde with its industrial and urban surroundings.  

The scenery became more scenic when we approached Haughton Dale Nature Reserce and beyond passing Romiley. We braved walking through the 167 yards Woodley Tunnel, the only tunnel with a towpath on the canal, and my torch coming in handy.  Looked down below to Bredbury Green from the Hatherlow Aqueduct.  After our diversion from Hyde Bank Tunnel we reached Rose Hill opened out tunnel and Marple Aqueduct.  The aqueduct is a marvelous piece of engineering feet and we were able to look down to River Goyt and beyond.  We looked up to the Marple viaduct and saw a couple of trains passing by.  Beautiful scenery all around. We ascended up to first nine locks on the Marple Flight.   Some of the locks were currently being restored in order for the readiness of the cruising season at end of March/beginning of April.  The Canal River Trust held an Open Day in January for the Public which gave them an opportunity to see the restoration progress and learn more of its canal and its waterways in general. After a good walk and having very tired feet...we caught a train home via the Hope Valley and Sheffield.  Slowly going round the Cheshire Ring!


Ashton Under Lyne to Marple - 28th May 2018 

Canadian Geese and their goslings, Peak Forest Canal

My Dad and I have begun walking the Peak Forest Canal (my second time); the walk was from Ashton Under Lyne to Marple.  We travelled to Ashton by train, with a change at Stalybridge, and walked down the hill to the Ashton Canal and Dunkenfield Junction.  We stopped briefly at the Portland Basin Museum where we used the facilities and Dad had a quick look round.

We crossed the bridges to begin our walk on The Peak Forest Canal and crossed the River Tame over its aqueduct.  We were greeted with the Canadian Geese and their many goslings.  The goslings are rather cute though they will probably turn aggressive and unfriendly like their parents!  We passed Hyde, Haughton Dale Nature Reserve, transversed through the Woodley Tunnel and took a stop in Romiley.  We had a drink at the Duke of York Pub which was welcoming for somewhat a very warm day!  Afterwards we continued on passing Hatherlow and reaching the Hyde Bank Tunnel.

We had to divert at the Hyde Bank Tunnel and walked overland to the other portal.  This stretch is certainly one of the most interesting and scenic on the waterways network.  With the Rose Hill Tunnel Cutting, The Marple Aqueduct (designed by Benjamin Outram)and ascending up the Marple Flight of Locks.  I've noticed the new railings that have been put on the other side of the aqueduct - it's a good thing for the boaters' safety.

We finished our 8 mile walk after the 8th Lock on the Flight and we went down the main road to the train station.  As we arrived at the platform, the Sheffield bound train pulled in so we were on on our way home!  We now need to continue walking the remainder of the Peak Forest Canal and start on the Macclesfield one which are planned for completion this summer. 

Whaley Bridge to Marple - 14th July 2018

Upper Peak Forest Canal, near Marple

We meant to have returned earlier but the day we had chosen to finish the canal was the day of rail replacement services and we didn't make it Marple or Whaley Bridge in the end. Anyway there were no issues train wise this time round and we travelled to Whaley Bridge (we decided to walk in the opposite direction so we could spend some time looking round Bugsworth Basin and also we didn't have to wait long at Manchester Piccadilly for this connecting train). 

We got to Whaley Bridge at lunch time and we had lunch at the terminus/beginning of the canal.  Afterwards we walked towards Bugsworth Basin where we had a good look round and chatted to a friendly gentleman who told us more about the Basin.  There was a small exhibition about Busgworth Basin and how industrially busy it was in its hey day and also we picked up some guides.   It was an interesting exploration though the weather was beginning to get hot...so stopped at The Navigation Inn to buy an ice lolly.

We continued on the main canal towards New Mills - the canal is scenic with great views of the Derbyshire Peaks and the Torrs Valley.  We didn't stop at any pubs but instead got our supply of cold drinks at a convenience store in New Mills, just before the Swizzles Sweet Factory, and they were well needed.   The hot weather made walking hard work and being up in the hills didn't make any difference.

We passed Disley, Strines and Furniss Vale before reaching Marple Junction and then we descended down the locks until we reached the road where it leads to Marple Station.  We finished our walk of approximately of 8 miles at Lock 9 and headed down the station for our train home.  We only waited 15-20 minutes before we got our Sheffield bound train and connected there for home.  We have now completed walking the Peak Forest Canal (my 2nd time) and we look forward to walking another canal soon hopefully in cooler weather! 

Calder and Hebble Navigation

Mirfield to Thornes - 4th February 2017

Calder and Hebble Navigation, Shepley Bridge

My first experience walking on the Calder and Hebble Navigation was starting out at Mirfield.  The original aim was to walk to Wakefield but with overgrown and poorly maintained paths and diversions I ran out of daylight time and didn't reach my destination.

Walking on the canal cuts, in sunshine, via Ravensthorpe, Thornhill and Horbury is pleasant but walking along the river was a challenge with ever eroding footpaths on the river banks.  There was a wild and industrial feel to the river and the smells reminded you of this!  I had to take a diversion at Broad Cut via a railway bridge and called it a day at Thornes Lock.

I decided not to walk along the Dewsbury Arm towards Savile Town - just 100 years or so for photo from the junction.  I made a comfort stop at The Navigation Inn near Broad Cut in Calder Grove.  A pleasant pub and a perfect place for boaters to stop  before venturing onto the River Calder.

At Thornes Lock I finished; had a meal nearby and caught a bus on Denby Dale Road to Wakefield Bus Station for my onward connection home.

Thornes to Wakefield - 11th February 2017

Calder and Hebble Navigation, Wakefield

I'll blog my walk from Wakefield to Sowerby Bridge though I haven't walked the navigation in an orderly fashion.   I walked to Wakefield from  Thornes Lock - As I was walking on the actual river it had its challenges with the overgrown shrubs and vegetation, the muddy terrain, the amount of litter (a fridge was dumped there!), and it was drizzly.  My rain tote got damaged with the prickly shrubs and had to backtrack on the riverside path as it suddenly ended! I eventually was able to join a road that was besides the river and led into Wakefield City Centre.

I stopped at The Wharfside Inn for a comfort stop and drink.  The friendly owner shared some of the pub's history and how the area was associated with the Calder and Hebble Navigation.  We exchanged our adventures on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and we challenged general canal related perceptions.

I continued on via the city centre - checked out Wakefield Waterfront and its Flood Lock and crossed Doncaster Road to complete rest of the navigation.  Falling Lock is where the navigation finishes and the Aire and Calder begins.   What I learnt from walking on the navigations is never to assume the mileage and timings as accurate because the stretch is part river and part canal.  Allow extra time for completing the stretches on the navigation.  

Sowerby Bridge to Elland - 11th March 2017

Salterhebble Arm, Calder and Hebble Navigation

This is my third walk on the navigation; from Sowerby Bridge to Elland.  I originally planned to walk onto Brighouse but tow path closures and bridge repairs curtailed my plans.  I caught a train to Sowerby Bridge and walked to the town's basin.  I started at the Rochdale Canal's Locks 1 and 2 and descended to the beginning or terminus of the Calder and Hebble Navigation.

It was pleasant walking on the cut surrounded by the beautiful Calder Valley and the Pennines.  The towpath is part of the Calder Valley Greenway which is popular with cyclists so I had to watch myself a bit.  Passing Copley I turned off at Salterhebble Arm and stopped for a drink at the Watermill Pub.  The Arm originally led to Halifax via the Hebble Brook.

I walked a little further towards Elland Bridge, currently being repaired and restored following the 2015 floods, and had to divert just before.  I walked on the road towards the Barge and Barrel Pub and after a half at the  pub I walked into town for a bus to Brighouse Railway Station for my train home.  A lovely day of scenic walking and certainly my favourite stretch on the Calder and Hebble Navigation.  Just the final fling via Brighouse and Cooper Bridge to Mirfield...

Salterhebble to Mirfield - 2nd April 2017

River Calder, near Brighouse

The 'final fling' on the Calder and Hebble Navigation! I caught a bus to Salterhebble Hill from Halifax bus station and began my walk on the Salterhebble Branch towards Elland.   I was greeted with the sign "Elland Celebrates"  sign when I approached Elland - last time I walked in the area the towpath was closed and had to walk on the road to finish my walk.

Yes Elland celebrates! I coincided my walk with the celebration event for the reopening of Elland Bridge. The bridge was severely damaged during the 2015 floods and after a long time of repairs it is now up and standing and open for business.  It was nice walking under and over the bridge and a party atmosphere surrounded the roads and the cut.  VIP guests were present including the media, Councillors and Canal and River Trust representatives.  There was street stalls and kayaking and trips were available on the canal - the latter by the Calder Navigation Society.  Lovely to have caught the party but I had to move on if I have to reach Mirfield in good time.  

I wasn't sure what the diversions were around Cromwell Bridge, which is currently being repaired, but it appears that the towpath was opened beyond the bridge.  I had to divert round the bridge - unexpected to see was directions to a cafe which volunteers of the Comwell Bottom Wildlife Group run.  The group run a refreshments cabin every Sunday - for me it was a perfect and unexpected comfort stop (with toilets available). 

It was quite a scenic walk on the cut along the reserve and it was the case until I reached Brighouse.   From the town centre I took a diversion via the roads and farmland to Cooper Bridge.  From the busy road bridge I rejoined the cut and soon faced the river stretches with a couple of cuts thrown in for good measure.  I closed the 'circle' at Ledgard Bridge in Mirfield...walked up to Huddersfield Road for my bus home.  In all a lovely day and it was good to complete the Calder and Hebble Navigation and also the North Pennine Canal Ring.

Rochdale Canal

Hebden Bridge to Sowerby Bridge - 17th July 2016

Rochdale Canal, Mytholmroyd

I had a wish to walk whole of the Rochdale Canal and one day in July I decided to pursue this.

I did the 5.5 mile canal walk from Hebden Bridge to Sowerby Bridge (just after Tuel Locks and will walk the remaining yards when I plan to walk the Calder and Hebble Navigation) which took in Mytholmroyd and Luddenden Foot. 

I had nice weather (though a bit too warm at the end) to guide me. The canal stretch is interesting; scenic with historic links in places but in some places rather overgrown and could do with some tender loving care (particularly between Mytholmroyd and Luddenden Foot). The Rochdale Canal is aligned along the main roads and railway which makes easy planning for starting and finishing the walk.  Still 25+ miles to go!

Mytholmroyd to Todmorden - 31st July 2016

Rochdale Canal, Hebden Bridge

This canal stretch is interesting particularly through Hebden Bridge town centre - which was the busiest stretch on the walk.  I noted that considerable restoration has been done on the canal following the devastating floods of 2015 that affected the local area.

One stretch of the canal, on the outskirts of Todmorden, was closed (because of the floods), and I had to be diverted via the hilly Burnley Road.  I was able to rejoin the canal soon as I was in the town centre and continued onto to Walsden (to Hollins Road).  I retraced my steps to Todmorden where I caught my train home.  Still another 20+ miles to go!!!

Todmorden to Littleborough - 7th August 2016

Rochdale Canal, Todmorden

I did a 5.5 mile canal walk from Todmorden to Littleborough.  Originally it was going to be vice versa but because of the engineering works on the railway and a cancelled train (would have to wait at least an hour for the next one!).  It was best to start at Tod instead of hanging around at a railway station!  So I caught a bus and soon after arrival I was walking on the canal.

I walked through some stunning Pennines scenery on the canal summit stretch and saw the historic Yorkshire/Lancashire border on the canal.  It was some of the best canal walking I've ever done.  To celebrate my walking progress I had a lovely meal at The Waterside Restaurant in Littleborough, adjacent to the canal.  Still another 15 miles or so to go!

Mills Hill to Littleborough - 28th August 2016

Rochdale Canal, Slattocks

I did approximately 9 miles of canal walking from Mills Hill (Middleton area) to Littleborough in Greater Manchester.  The walk was uneventful; hardly saw any boats and some areas I walked through were insalubrious particularly in the Rochdale area.

Particularly enjoyed walking through the Middleton district valley and from Smithy Bridge area where I spotted the beautiful Clegg Hall to Littleborough.  Still another 6+ miles to Manchester! Nearly done! I cam across a number of poems summing up the Rochdale Canal on my walks.  The one below by Robin Parker of Langley Writers sums up this stretch of the walk I've done.

"Stop
Here for
Smithy Bridge,
Weighvers' Seaport.
Forward to Clegg Hall,
Kingway's new industry,
Halfpenny Bridge's dead mill.
Sandbrook and motorway culvert.
On through Castleton's bank-side decay.
In ten more years, will all regenerate?"

The Final Fling - 29th August 2016

Rochdale Canal, Manchester

The FINAL FLING from Mills Hill to Manchester. Now walked the whole length of the Rochdale Canal from Sowerby Bridge to Manchester in five stretches! This stretch was uneventful including crossing the M60 footbridge in Chadderton (the motorway is over the canal!), walking through regenerated Failsworth and the Royle Basin and entering the City Centre. Parts of the canal in the City Centre were closed with Manchester Pride happening and some stretch of the tow path was closed but was able to walk to the VERY END!

I walked parts of the canal in 2012 (in the City Centre) where I didn't have opportunity to do this time round because of closures and I didn't feel comfortable walking underground for the Piccadilly Lock on my own.  I  probably return walking 'The Rochdale Nine' to connect to Castlefield for other canal adventures in the future but will be avoiding the insalubrious locks 84 and 85!

I came across this poem on my canal walks which sums up my Rochdale Canal walking experiences. Written by Ann Robinson, Langley Writers, 2013.

Sonnet 

"Stay a while in this peaceful, tranquil place.
Interrupted only by noisy train.
See railway and road over water chase;
Here these three transport modes meet once again
To Manchester or Leeds train thunders by,
People travel on it to work or shop.
It's very loud, but sound is never shy;
Quickly gone now, still silence back does drop
Rochdale Canal flows sluggishly away
Via dark lock flows down another course
No changes from day to following day
Passing through our countryside from its source
Roadway over the bridge was Three Pits Lane
Will never lead to anywhere again" 

Littleborough to Walsden - 10th August 2017

Rochdale Canal, near Littleborough

After completed walking the Rochdale Canal last year, I decided to re-walk some selected stretches on the Rochdale Canal with the Summit stretch being my favourite one.  I supposed to have walked 10 miles from Littleborough to Hebden Bridge but the constant rain curtailed my plans! In the end I only walked approximately 3 miles to Walsden.

I arrived at Littleborough railway station around lunchtime, had to endure a very busy Leeds railway station and a Manchester bound train because of fans going to the Rugby League Grand Final at Old Trafford, and began my walk straight away.  I knew it was going to be a wet walk as the heavens opened on my arrival so cutting my walk wasn't an option.

I stopped at the lovely Summit Inn, in Summit, for lunch.  It's a lovely pub with its historic photo memorabilia of the canal and village life in general.  It's a chain pub but it hasn't lost it's authenticity though it seemed a popular stopping point for the rugby league fans enroute to Old Trafford!  A pub highly recommended for its ambiance and food though it can get very busy.

Despite the rainy weather and feeling very wet I walked on the stretch via some stunning Pennine Scenery and passing the highest locks in England (600 ft above sea level) towards Walsden.  Met a friendly pony and saw ostriches enroute in Summit.

Just missed my train back to Leeds so I tried looking for a pub to kill some time but turned out that Walsden hasn't got a pub (just a convenience store but I wanted to sit inside somewhere) so I kept dry at the station's shelter.  Walsden is simply a satellite town to both Todmorden and Littleborough (though the latter town is in Greater Manchester) and there isn't really anywhere where you can have a drink after a walk.  The trains are hourly to Leeds and had a long wait in the ghost like feel village and I reminded myself not to finish canal walks in Walsden. 

I certainly walk this stretch again but when it's dry and preferably sunny! 

Sowerby Bridge to Hebden Bridge - 13th January 2018

Rochdale Canal, Hebden Bridge

After successfully completing our walk on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal our next adventure is walking the Rochdale Canal.  We plan to walk the 31 mile canal from Sowerby Bridge to Manchester.   It opened in 1804, closed in 1952 and restored in 2002 and is a vital link for boaters completing cruising rings on the waterways.

We walked approximately 5 miles from Sowerby Bridge, just after the canal meeting the with Calder and Hebble Navigation, and ascended towards the Tuel Lane Locks (Locks 3/4).  We continued on the rather muddy towpath passing Luddendenfoot, Mytholmroyd and eventually reaching Hebden Bridge.

We saw plenty of things along our way and the towpath was quite busy with walkers and their dogs.  It was a pleasant walk though not raining the weather was miserable with a dark cloud hanging over the area.  We finished and left the canal from one of the bridges in the town centre and made our way to the bus stop.

We were surprised to see there are no direct buses to Sowerby Bridge so we had to get a bus to Halifax and change for another bus to Sowerby Bridge.  We learnt later we could have got off at Tuel Lane for the long walk down the road to Dad's car in the town centre or get off at Kings Cross for the connecting bus.  We got off very near the car park and before setting off for home we had a coffee nearby at The Moorings Pub (situated at the Canal Basin).

We will continue our adventures soon! 

Hebden Bridge to Littleborough - 25th February 2018

The highest point on the Rochdale Canal

Our adventures on the Rochdale Canal continues with a 10.5 miles walk from Hebden Bridge to Littleborough.  We had a nice day and we were walking on the canal mid-morning.

We joined the canal from a short walk from the railway station and passed through Hebden Bridge, a pleasant market town, and soon ventured off to Todmodern.  The South Pennines is renowned for its stunning countryside and this stretch was no exception.  The canal ascends up in the valley with its locks and surrounding hills.  

We met Canal and River Trust staff as we were approaching Todmodern and we had a great chat about the canals.  They had a stall and were encouraging people to become Friends of the Canal and River Trust. I'm a friend and I'm proud to support this wonderful charity which has transformed by love for the great outdoors! 

We decided to push on at Todmodern, another market town, towards Walsden.  At Walsden we stopped at Grandma Pollard's Fish and Chips shop/restaurant for a late lunch; I ordered a small portion of fish and chips and a black tea.  They were enjoyable and we ate our food in their picnic area by the canal.  The restaurant is very popular for locals and visitors alike as the restaurant was full. 

We were conscious that it would get dark around 5.00pm so we decided to continue on towards the Summit and eventually Littleborough.  We continued to ascend up the in the Pennines, crossed into Lancashire (as was the county landmark before 1974) and up to the West Summit Lock.   The Summit is certainly my favourite stretch to walk on the canal with its rugged Pennines surrounding the waterway and after walking from the West to the East Summit Locks we started descending down towards Littleborough.

Last mile and half of so was pretty uneventful apart from the descending locks and we reached our destination, Littleborough Railway Station.  We had to wait quite a bit for our train home but it was great day out being out in the sunshine and fresh air.

Littleborough to Mills Hill - 10th March 2018

Well deserved stop at Lock 50, Rochdale Canal

We returned to Littleborough to continue walking approximately 7-8 miles on the canal to Mills Hill.  We saw remnants of the snow on the hill following the crazy we have had over the recent weeks.  We passed through Smithy Bridge and the beautiful Clegg Hall where we stopped to have lunch.  

We returned to Littleborough to continue walking approximately 7-8 miles on the canal to Mills Hill.  We saw remnants of the snow on the hill following the crazy we have had over the recent weeks.  We passed through Smithy Bridge and the beautiful Clegg Hall where we stopped to have lunch.

We soldiered on and as we approached Milnrow I was a bit apprehensive as my past passage through the Rochdale area wasn't pleasant with its insalubrious surroundings and bored kids shouting abuse.  On this occasion however we had the canal to ourselves when we passed through and we even stopped to take a breather at Lock 50 (Moss Lower Lock).

We passed through a wooded area and we had to divert at Edinburgh Way just walked overground for quarter of a mile until we rejoined the canal.  At Castleton we stopped at the Blue Pits Inn for a drink - a pleasant cosy pub.  The rain got more persistent so far the final couple of miles we didn't stop much and walked to New Mills Station where we finished.  After the Slattocks Locks the camera was put away as it was heavily raining.  We only had to wait a few minutes for our train - the train was packed so we had to stand at the beginning but we were on our way home.  Just the final stretch to Manchester now.

Mills Hill to Manchester - 30th March 2018

Rochdale Canal, Failsworth

Dad and I picked up where we left off on the canal and continued walking west.  It was a pleasant stroll taking in the sights of old and of the new.  We notice a very heavy presence of Canadian geese throughout our walk - I'm not a fan of them and admittedly a bit scared of them.  They seem to be either in a pair or in threes (wonder why the latter?) but we read on one of the notice boards that the geese are monogamous and that the couple are mates for life! 

We crossed over the M60 via it's footbridge as the course of the canal goes underneath and slowly descending down to Failsworth.  We decided to stop for a coffee at it's Tesco's Extra.  Always like popping into Tesco's Extra as it brings back fond memories when stopped at their cafes when we walked the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.   We enjoyed a coffee and also customary shortbread at the cafes on our canal walks. 

I'm afraid to say that the canal goes down hill not just physically but in appearance.  From Newton Health to Ancoats we saw so much rubbish in and out the canal.  Seeing the settee thrown in the canal made me feel disgusted how little pride and responsibility is taken to make the waterways pleasant for everyone.  I didn't appreciate seeing the graffiti...why do people do it?  I struggle to comprehend!  There was insalubrious and creepy  feel to that stretch and I was so glad that I was walking with my Dad.  It was like this all the way to Manchester although the Ancoats area was nice.  

We reached Manchester City Centre - one of my least favourite stretch with insalubrious characters hanging around and underground and its graffiti everywhere.  Canal Street and Manchester's Gay District however was lovely to walk through with its colourful and relaxed atmosphere.  We eventually reached Lock 92 and the end of the Rochdale Canal!  It was great rewalking the Canal with my Dad and we look forward to another canal adventure soon!