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Generally a quiet stretch of canal with well spaced locks.
Not very busy with boaters, so you might take the opportunity for a day or two to take a quiet mooring.
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Lock Gates
Tunnel AqueductToday, the Erewash Canal thrives as a multi-use destination, attracting boaters, walkers, cyclists, and anglers.
Its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings make it a favourite spot for narrowboat, widebeam and cruiser enthusiasts, who enjoy the well-maintained locks and scenic cruising routes.
The canal is equipped with mooring facilities, making it convenient for boaters exploring the region.
For walkers, the towpaths provide serene routes perfect for leisurely strolls or brisk hikes. Cyclists also frequent the pathways, drawn to the flat terrain and scenic views.
The canal is a haven for anglers, offering opportunities to catch species such as roach, perch and bream.
The canal also supports a diverse array of wildlife, with its banks teeming with plants and animals. Kingfishers, herons, and dragonflies are common sights, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers.
Part of the East Midlands’ Heritage
The Erewash Canal stands as a testament to the industrial ingenuity of the past and the dedication of modern communities to preserve history. Its transformation from an industrial artery to a recreational haven highlights its enduring value to the region, providing a vital resource for both heritage tourism and local leisure activities. Whether navigating its locks, exploring its towpaths, or enjoying the natural beauty, the Erewash Canal continues to enrich the lives of those who visit it.
Navigation to the River Trent and River Soar and then the Grand Union Canal (Leicester Line) at the junction located at the southern end of the canal.
The Locks number from 60 to 74. The numbering continues from the last lock (59) on the River Soar.
The Erewash Canal, a short but broad waterway in Derbyshire, was completed in 1779 at a cost of £21,000—equivalent to approximately £2.6 million today. Initially surveyed in 1766 by J. Smith, the canal’s construction was overseen by John Varley, the engineer behind the Chesterfield Canal. Spanning 11.5 miles, the canal links the Erewash Valley to the River Trent, offering a vital transport route in its heyday.
Historical Significance of the Erewash Canal
Originally built to transport coal, the Erewash Canal quickly became a commercial success. The coalfields of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire supplied the canal with steady cargo traffic, ensuring its use right up to 1932 for coal haulage. While freight transport began to decline, the canal continued to operate until 1952, carrying a variety of goods including quarried stone, bricks, and even munitions cases during World War II.
The canal was authorised by an Act of Parliament in 1777, with construction commencing a year later. Completed in just two years, it provided an essential link between local industries and the River Trent, enabling goods to reach broader markets. The mid-19th century brought competition from the railways, which began to dominate freight transport. This shift caused the canal to fall into decline, though efforts by the Grand Union Canal Company in the 1920's temporarily revived it with upgrades, including larger locks and deepened waterways.
However, as the coal industry waned, so too did the canal’s importance. By 1962, commercial use ceased, and certain sections, such as the stretch above the Gallows Inn, became impossible to navigate.
Restoration and Revival
Restoration of the canal began in 1968, led by dedicated volunteers and local organisations. By 1973, the Erewash Canal reopened to pleasure craft, marking a new chapter in its history. This transformation from industrial workhorse to recreational waterway showcased the community's commitment to preserving this historic gem.
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