Macclesfield Canal

The Macclesfield Canal is a navigable waterway in Cheshire that extends for about 26 kilometers and connects various communities across the region. The route includes 13 locks that allow boats to manage changes in water level.

The waterway was developed in the 1820s and opened to traffic in 1831, marking an important step for moving goods throughout the region. Its construction reflected modern engineering practices of the era and improved connections between industrial centers.

The waterway runs through areas where mills and quarries once operated, shaping the local landscape and economy. These industrial remnants remain visible today, reflecting how water transport connected communities to their livelihoods.

Boaters need to bring a special key for the lock mechanisms and can obtain supplies at several villages along the route. Plan to spend extra time operating the locks, especially if you are unfamiliar with how they work.

The waterway received the first Green Flag award ever given to a canal in Britain in 2015, honoring its upkeep and management. This recognition shows how well the route is maintained today and the commitment local communities have made to preserve it.

GPS coordinates: 53.48330,-2.10000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 15:59