The Caldon Canal–Part 2

The Leek Branch.

We’ve limped our way to Leek!  In actual fact that’s not true – we’re quite a way from Leek having stopped at the entrance to the short tunnel.  After this there’s about another 1/2 mile in water and then about another mile into the centre of the town.  The canal used to go as far as a wharf in Leek but this was filled in during the 60’s and has since been built upon.

                        “Billy-no-Mates” -moored at the tunnel entrance.

The Leek Branch is:-  short, shallow but incredibly scenic.

We don’t think it’s short of water – it’s just in dire need of being dredged.  At times I think we were limping along at about a mile an hour. Since we’ve been here, only three boats have gone through the tunnel and  two of them have turned around and gone straight back again!  Not busy then!  We’re not short of neighbours providing some degree of entertainment however -

We went for a walk and found the Ladderedge Country Park.  There are several way-marked trails and some of the views over the Churnet Valley and on towards The Peak District were stunning.

I think this rocky outcrop might be called The Roaches – if it is, it’s on our agenda for next week!                             

                     Looking towards the town of Leek.

Last time we were here we walked into Leek and thought it a very nice little town. 

Tomorrow?  We’ll be limping back to Hazlehurst Junction and awaiting the arrival of our pals.  Really looking forward to spending the week with them – just need the weather to stay relatively dry!