Peak Forest Canal

Leaving the Macclesfield for the Peak Forest Canal

 

Bugsworth Basin next stop

Thursday saw us reach the Southern end of the Peak Forest Canal at Bugsworth Basin. Opened in 1796 this became one of the largest ports on the narrow canal network.  Limestone was brought down the 6 mile Peak Forest Tramway from the Dove Holes area of the Derbyshire Peak District and transhipped onto the canal at the basin.  For over 100 years Bugsworth was the centre for the production of burnt lime. The basin is now a Scheduled Ancient Monument. 

 

 

 

 

 

The above are all of Bugsworth Basin

In the past the workers needed refreshment and four local hostelries served their needs. Only one survives, the Navigation Inn, and is the oldest still inhabited building within the site. Originally a farm it became a public house for boatmen in the early part of the 19^th Century. Steven & Loraine (Flo’s sister) joined us for dinner at the Inn on Friday evening.

The Navigation Inn

Sunday 19^th saw us leave the basin for New Mills.