To Todmorden on the Rochdale Canal

Saturday, 26 September 2009 21:40

Locks and scenery - time to enjoy them

We began to enjoy the lovely scenery as the sun came out, warming the chill wind. It is definitely autumn here in Yorkshire and the leaves are beginning to fall. I love autumn with its colours all around us and the feeling of sun on my face!

House by Shawplains Lock (15)

The area around Lobb Mill is really lovely and the canal opens out at the winding hole before Lobb Mill Lock (16), with the disused Cross Stone Church high on the hill. The church has links with the Brontës and John Wesley. It was closed in 1978 as it was deemed unsafe and to be slipping down the hill side.

Cross Stone Church

Lobb Lane Lock and railway viaduct

I sat on the wall by Epiphany and "sunbathed"

As we passed under Woodhouse Bridge (27) we could see notices; reading them, we avoided whatever was below the water and approached Old Royd Lock (17). A Bronte Hire Boat and Nb Blue on Blue were moored for lunch just below the lock.

Underwater obstruction warning

The view once we were above Old Royd lock

By Kilnhurst Bridge on outskirts of Todmorden

Baltimore Boatyard near Todmorden

We decided to moor before Shop Lock (18), as the moorings above were full when John walked up to have a look. It is not a bad mooring as Lidl is about 2 minutes away and we are away from the centre a bit.

The Rochdale Canal, Stubbing Wharf to Todmorden - 4 hours 16 minutes, 3.61 miles, 6 locks