The Peak Forest Canal is a picturesque waterway that runs through the stunning landscapes of the Peak District in England. Opened in 1800, it was originally designed to transport limestone from the quarries of the Peak District to the industrial towns of Manchester and beyond. The canal stretches approximately 16 miles, connecting the town of Whaley Bridge to the Ashton Canal at the junction in Manchester.
The canal features a total of 16 locks, including the impressive Marple Locks, which consist of a series of 16 locks that raise boats approximately 200 feet over a distance of just over a mile. This lock flight is a highlight for boaters and offers a fascinating glimpse into the engineering prowess of the early 19th century.
One of the key features of the Peak Forest Canal is its connection to the River Goyt, which provides a beautiful natural setting alongside the canal. The river meanders through lush countryside, offering opportunities for fishing, walking, and wildlife spotting.
Another interesting aspect of the Peak Forest Canal is the historic tunnel at Bugsworth Basin, a former loading basin that was once one of the busiest inland ports in the country. The basin has been beautifully restored, allowing visitors to explore its industrial heritage, complete with the remnants of wharves and warehouses.
The canal also features a variety of wildlife and scenic spots, including tranquil stretches lined with trees, wildflowers, and an abundance of birdlife, making it a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and boaters alike. The combination of its rich history, impressive engineering, and stunning natural beauty makes the Peak Forest Canal a true gem in the British canal network.
Canal Specification
| Max Boat Length | 70ft |
| Max Boat Width | 7ft |
| Number of Locks | 16 |
| Length | 27½ miles |
YouTube Videos
- Slow Boat Through Britain – Ep17 A Canal with a View
- Slow Boat Through Britain – Ep18 A Sweet Tooth & a Buggy Basin
- on sabbatical – Peak Forest canal – spoiler: it’s our favourite so far
- Floating Our Boat – Is the Peak Forest Canal the most beautiful? – Episode 67
- Minimal List – 346 – The Best Day on the Marple Locks and Upper Peak Forest Canal
- Minimal List – 347 – Bugsworth Basin by Narrowboat
- Minimal List – 348 – Where Did All The Water Go?
River/Canal Route Planning
If you are looking for a canal/river route planner, we recommend Canal Plan, we use it to plan our routes, and then once we have a plan our maps are useful to find what else there is on the way