Only 13 locks with 12 in one group about a third of the way north of Kidsgrove. Then it's 'Lock Free' from Bosley Locks Boater’s Facilities all the way to Marple Bridge
Lock Gates
Tunnel AqueductForming part of the 97 mile Cheshire Ring, it is a popular holiday canal.
The Macclesfield Canal, often hailed as one of the most scenic waterways in England, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences for canal boaters. Stretching 26 miles through the stunning Cheshire countryside, it connects with the Peak Forest Canal at Marple Junction and the Trent & Mersey Canal at Hall Green. Boaters flock to this picturesque route to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere, impressive engineering, and well-maintained facilities.
The Macclesfield Canal is well-equipped for modern boaters, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey. Facilities include:
Mooring Spots: Secure moorings are available at key locations such as Macclesfield, Bollington, and Congleton.
Water Points: Regularly spaced water points make refilling tanks hassle-free.
Pump-Out Services: Convenient pump-out stations ensure waste disposal is straightforward.
Fuel and Supplies: Several marinas along the route offer fuel, groceries, and essential boating supplies.
Ring O' Bells (Marple)
Located at the northern end of the canal, this welcoming pub offers hearty meals and local ales—a perfect stop for refuelling after a day on the water.
The Vale Inn (Bollington)
This charming pub serves up delicious food and craft beers in a cosy, riverside setting.
The Wharf Inn (Congleton)
Right on the canal, The Wharf Tavern combines scenic views with a menu featuring traditional British fare and refreshing drinks.
Sutton Hall (Gurnett)
Near the Aqueduct. Known for its warm atmosphere and excellent Sunday roasts, this pub is a boater favourite.
For those without their own boat, several hire companies operate along the Macclesfield Canal, providing everything from weekend escapes to week-long adventures. Notable options include:
Peak Forest Canal Boats
Perfect for exploring the Macclesfield and Peak Forest Canals in tandem.
Bollington Wharf
Offering luxurious narrowboats equipped with modern amenities.
Heritage Narrowboats
Based near the canal’s southern end, ideal for first-time boaters.
Conclusion
For modern-day canal boaters, the Macclesfield Canal offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and history. Whether you’re navigating its iconic locks, stopping for a pint at a waterside pub, or marvelling at its engineering wonders, this canal is a must-visit for anyone seeking a quintessential English boating experience.
The Fascinating History of the Macclesfield Canal
Nestled in the heart of Cheshire, the Macclesfield Canal is a tranquil waterway steeped in history. Stretching 26.25 miles from Marple Junction to Hall Green near Kidsgrove, it serves as a vital link between the Peak Forest and Trent & Mersey canals. Today, it’s celebrated for its serene beauty and historical charm, but its story is one of ambition, innovation, and resilience.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the rapid industrialisation of Northern England called for efficient transport links. The Macclesfield Canal was envisioned to connect the flourishing textile mills of Cheshire with broader markets. With roads unreliable and expensive, a canal offered a cheaper, more dependable means to move goods like coal, stone, and silk.
Thomas Telford, a legend in British civil engineering, played a significant advisory role in the Macclesfield Canal. However, much of the detailed design and oversight was managed by William Crosley, a less celebrated but equally talented engineer. Crosley’s precision ensured the canal met the high standards of the era.
The Macclesfield Canal Act was passed in 1826, granting the authority to construct the canal. Although the idea was widely supported by industrialists and local landowners, there were initial concerns about its feasibility and potential environmental impact. Once approved, meticulous planning began under Crosley’s watchful eye.
Construction commenced in 1827 and was completed in 1831. While the project was executed swiftly compared to other canals, it wasn’t without challenges. Engineers had to navigate steep gradients and build solid embankments to stabilise the route. Despite these hurdles, Crosley’s team delivered a functional and aesthetically pleasing canal.
The canal is a showcase of early 19th-century engineering ingenuity. Notable features include the towering Bosley Locks, a flight of 12 locks that raise the canal 118 feet in less than a mile. The canal’s gentle curves and shallow gradients reflect Telford’s influence, making it a favourite among boaters even today.
The canal’s construction cost approximately £320,000, a significant sum in the 19th century. Funding came from local businesses and investors who saw the canal as a crucial lifeline for their industries. The investment paid off, as the canal became a bustling transport route.
At its peak, the Macclesfield Canal thrived as a commercial waterway. It carried coal, silk, and limestone to and from Cheshire’s factories. Macclesfield’s prominence as a silk-producing town owes much to the canal, which facilitated swift and reliable transportation.
The arrival of the railways in the mid-19th century spelled trouble for the canal. Trains were faster, more efficient, and less weather-dependent, leading to a sharp decline in canal traffic. By the late 1800's, the Macclesfield Canal had become almost obsolete.
The canal officially ceased commercial operations in the early 20th century. For decades, it fell into disrepair, with sections becoming impassable. This decline mirrored the fate of many British canals during the railway era.
The mid-20th century brought a renewed appreciation for Britain’s canals. Enthusiasts and local organisations rallied to restore the Macclesfield Canal, transforming it into a haven for leisure activities. Thanks to their efforts, the canal reopened for navigation in the 1970's.
Today, the Macclesfield Canal is a thriving hub for leisure boating, fishing, and walking. Narrowboat holidaymakers flock to its peaceful waters, while hikers enjoy the scenic towpaths. It’s a perfect blend of history and recreation.
Highlights along the canal include Macclesfield Wharf, which retains much of its original architecture, and the stunning Bosley Locks. These sites offer a glimpse into the canal’s industrious past while serving as picturesque stops for visitors.
Modern boaters will find ample facilities, from well-maintained mooring spots to waterside pubs like the King’s Head. Services such as fuel stations and repair yards ensure a smooth journey for canal enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Macclesfield Canal is a testament to the ingenuity and determination of its creators. From its industrial heyday to its modern role as a leisure destination, it continues to captivate visitors with its charm and history. Whether you’re exploring its locks or simply soaking in the views, the canal promises an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
Completed 1831 and running north from Kidsgrove, where it connects to the Trent & Mersey Canal, to Marple Bridge and the Peak Forest Canal.
Users of the information displayed in this website or in websites linked to directly or indirectly, do so on the basis that it is a guide only. I Do Canals or its directors, partners or associates do not accept any responsibility for inaccuracies, omissions, costs incurred or disappointments of any kind what-so-ever. It is the users responsibility to check directly with any services, displayed, listed or linked to in or from this website, or associated parties with regards to (but not limited to) directions, costs, facilities, services, hospitality, availability, accommodation, etc. There is no implied recommendation for any of the entries or firms listed, nor is any criticism implied for any entry or firm not yet listed.
We have added 103 Waterways and there are 2704 entries listed and displayed on our maps and/or the resource pages:
Waterways Resources -
Boat Build & Fit Out -
Waterside Attractions. We continue to add items on a very regular basis.
Many entries have several services on offer, on average 5 services (some have many more). This means there are approx. 5 x the number of services listed.
