Tapton Lock VC Tapton Lock Cafe 497458964
Tapton Lock Visitor Centre Tapton Lock Festival 1061192621
Tapton Lock VC Tapton Lock Cycling Copy Copy 866571936
Tapton Lock VC Tapton Lock Festival 006 Canoeing 1472612478
Tapton Lock VC Tapton Lock Festival 006 Canoeing 2 869234294
Tapton Lock VC Tapton Lock Festival Narrowboat 2 Copy 1815393333
Tapton Lock VC Tapton Lock Festival 006 Canoeing Copy 2097731304

    Business

    Chesterfield Canal – Tapton Lock Visitor Centre

    The Chesterfield Canal is a beautiful waterway, an oasis of calm in the busy market town.



    About

    The Chesterfield Canal is a beautiful waterway, an oasis of calm in the busy market town.

    Built more than 200 years ago to transport lead, iron and coal to the River Trent and following the collapse of the Norwood Tunnel in 1907, it fell into disuse. The five mile stretch from Chesterfield to Staveley is now restored and a wonderful place to visit, known locally as the Cuckoo Way.

    Start from the Visitor Centre at Tapton Lock, where you’ll find friendly advice and a selection of walking and cycling maps and leaflets to help you explore. With freshly ground coffee, delicious snacks and homemade cakes. It’s just a short walk along the towpath to the town and the famous ‘Crooked Spire’.

    The canal towpath is multi-use and easy access, so whether you are walking, cycling, have a pram or a wheelchair you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife all year round. If you want to explore further afield there are plenty of opportunities. Do a circular route using the Trans Pennine Trail, bridle links or local public rights of way. A tramper mobility scooter can be hired from the Visitor Centre and the site is awarded the prestigious Green Flag for its green space.

    Wildlife - You’ll discover Bluebank Pools Local Nature Reserve along the towpath. Take your time, sit quietly and you are bound to be rewarded. Look out for the elusive water vole or the brilliant blue flash as a kingfisher darts past. Early morning walkers may spot Roe deer grazing along the canal and many water birds make their home here.

    Boating - Five miles of canal from Chesterfield to Staveley is open for boating. You can buy a licence from Tapton Lock Visitor Centre which allows you to launch your own boat. British Canoeing members paddle free of charge, contact us for details and for information about residential and commercial mooring opportunities. Enjoy a seasonal boat trip from Tapton Lock aboard John Varley II or the narrowboat Madeline offers trips from Hollingwood Hub.

    Accessibility

      Sustainability

        Our Facilities

        • On-site light refreshments
        • Picnic site
        • Baby Changing Facilities
        • Children welcome
        • Facilities for educational visits
        • Facilities for groups
        • Dogs Accepted
        • Public toilets

        Awards and accreditations

        How To Find Us

        Interested in...

        Events

        Tapton Lock Festival

        Tapton Lock Festival returns with a host of new activities and entertainment for families to enjoy.

        Nearby businesses

        Business

        Casa Hotel

        Situated in the heart of the historic market town Chesterfield. Casa Hotel is your ultimate destination for luxury and comfort.


        Business

        Barca Bar at Casa

        Barca Bar in Casa Hotel provides the perfect place whatever your occasion, from pre-dinner drinks to grabbing a coffee with friends or colleague


        Business

        Cocina Restaurant

        Cocina at Casa Hotel - Steak, Tapas & Grill

        Open today: 6:00pm - 9:30pm


        Business

        Winding Wheel Theatre

        Hosting a diverse programme of events including West End musicals, stand-up comedy, music concerts and lectures.

        Open today: 6:00pm - 9:30pm


        Sign up to our newsletter

        Receive the latest news, special offers, ideas and inspiration straight to your inbox by signing up to the Visit Peak District & Derbyshire e-newsletter.

        18074061679080232