Lock keeper's cottage at Vale Royal Locks

The lock keeper's cottage at Vale Royal is a red sandstone building with a slate roof and two recessed side sections featuring cross windows. The first-floor windows have chamfered mullions and a central porch with a four-centered arched doorway sheltered by a hood molding.

The cottage was built in 1850 and stood in a different location until 1890 when it was moved about 65 feet northward. This relocation made way for the construction of a new and larger lock structure on the waterway.

The cottage displays craftsmanship typical of buildings made for canal staff during the height of waterway transport. The quality of its stonework suggests the keeper held a respected role managing traffic on this busy shipping route.

The building sits directly on the Weaver Navigation canal where you can watch boats passing through the locks. Walk along the towpath to get clear views of the lock structure and water traffic.

The Delamere coat of arms is carved into the gable above the main entrance, marking the cottage's connection to the local noble family who owned the land. This heraldic detail reveals how closely tied the lock system was to the local gentry.