A walk up the locks on Lancaster Canal's Northern Reaches

Sunday, 14 June 2009 10:00

Arriving at Tewitfield one would be forgiven for thinking that "that is that" and it may be that some boaters venture no further and are happy to have achieved another "head of existing navigation".

However as we have an interest in the history, restoration and condition of our waterway heritage to venture further was a MUST.

Particularly when venturing along the path by the motorway and up onto the bridge we could see this view stretching before us! Despite the proximity of the M6.

Tewitfield locks 8 and 7

We were rewarded with a lovely walk up the disused lock flight that lifted the canal from Tewitfield 75 feet over a distance of three quarters of a mile.

It is a sad sight to see, especially as the first few locks are in relatively good condition and closer inspection shows lock "furniture" still in place and awaiting the "kiss of life".

Lock ladder lock 8Top paddle gear at lock 8

We spotted a dry bywash at lock 6

- I love the bridge

Lock 5 is somewhat overgrown and has been left to go rather "wild"

Lark Bridge 140 is at the entrance to lock 4

From lock 4: the waterfalls over the top of locks 3, 2 and 1

This is a really good time of the year to visit the Lancaster Canal, and the Northern Reaches lock flight is an illustration of the lush growth that is an haven for wildlife and birds. The swallows were having a wonderful time swooping at the bottom of the locks and we were conscious of the bird song, even above the M6 noise.

Lush growth in the pound between lock 3 and 2

In the pound between locks 2 and 1 the "V" sides are clearly visible due to the low water level that is maintained and controlled at the various culverts under the M6.

Pound and lock 1

The view from the top lock is wonderful and I leave you with it and will continue our walk next time! (groan - she's off with the suspense bit again!)

Time for a breather and a view!

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