Cromford Canal Wharf
Explore a scenic canal path steeped in industrial history, offering wildlife spotting and charming walks near Cromford Mills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Daffodils bloom, wildlife active
Cromford Canal Wharf
Best Time
Daffodils bloom, wildlife active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a scenic canal path steeped in industrial history, offering wildlife spotting and charming walks near Cromford Mills.
"A fantastic walk along the canal, many other routes to follow. Well worth a visit!"
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Cromford Canal is a fantastic spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space to explore.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Parking is available at Cromford Mills and High Peak Junction, but can get busy. Arrive early!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cromford Canal Towpath
Cromford Wharf
A picturesque walk with abundant wildlife and industrial heritage. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a longer hike.
Cromford Mills
Cromford
The birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Explore historic buildings and often hosts makers' markets.
High Peak Junction
Near Cromford
Home to the oldest surviving railway workshops in the world. A fascinating glimpse into railway history.
Canal Pumping Station
Along the canal
See a historic pumping station in action and learn about its vital role in canal operations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Canal Path
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Cromford Canal is a fantastic spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space to explore.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Parking is available at Cromford Mills and High Peak Junction, but can get busy. Arrive early!
☕ Cafe Stops
Wheatcroft's Wharf Cafe and Arkwright's Cafe offer refreshments. Check opening times.
💰 Pumping Station Contribution
A small £3 contribution is appreciated to see the canal pumping station in action.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Dog-Friendly Walks
Cromford Canal is a fantastic spot for dog walkers, with plenty of space to explore.
🅿️ Parking Tips
Parking is available at Cromford Mills and High Peak Junction, but can get busy. Arrive early!
☕ Cafe Stops
Wheatcroft's Wharf Cafe and Arkwright's Cafe offer refreshments. Check opening times.
💰 Pumping Station Contribution
A small £3 contribution is appreciated to see the canal pumping station in action.
👟 Waterproof Footwear
Sections of the canal path can get muddy, so wear appropriate shoes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Cromford Canal for its beautiful scenery, relaxing walks, and rich industrial history. The accessible towpath is perfect for families and dog owners, with convenient amenities like cafes and toilets. While parking can be busy, the overall experience is highly positive, offering a blend of nature and heritage.
"What an amazing place to go and see 😀. A fantastic walk along the canal, many other routes to follow. A couple of cafés and public toilets. Was great to see the canal pumping station in action, only a £3 contribution needed, well worth seeing and understanding the history 😊. Car park opposite the canal at the mill plus next to the beginning of the canal, well worth a visit"
James Mellors
"A great spot for a relaxing walk and beautiful scenery. The walk to the pumping house is about a mile and runs directly along the canal. It was quite busy when we visited but still enough parking and a pleasant atmosphere. Plenty of facilities for little 2 legged and 4 legged companions. Just bear in mind the cafe can't cope with more than 3 orders."
Tim Nicholls
"Lovely place for a stroll or a longer walk - depends on your energy on the day! Cromford and surrounding area is lovely to explore too."
TT F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train to Cromford station, which is a short walk from Cromford Wharf. Alternatively, the Transpeak or 6.1 bus routes can take you to the area from Nottingham.
Parking is available at Cromford Mills and High Peak Junction. The car park at High Peak Junction costs around £3 for 4 hours.
The main towpath along the canal is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs for much of its length.
Yes, cycling is permitted along the canal towpath. It's a popular route for a leisurely bike ride.
Cromford Mills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is directly opposite the canal. Matlock Bath and the Peak District National Park are also close by. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the Cromford Canal towpath and surrounding areas like Cromford Mills is generally free. However, parking fees may apply.
Cromford Mills is typically open daily, but it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date opening hours, especially for specific attractions within the site.
Information on canal boat trips is not widely available, but if offered, booking in advance is usually recommended, especially during peak season.
A small contribution of around £3 is suggested to see the canal pumping station in action.
Cromford Mills often hosts events, including a Makers Market on the third Sunday of the month. Check their schedule for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can spot various bird species, ducks, and potentially other small mammals along the canal. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and other riparian wildlife.
Yes, Wheatcroft's Wharf Cafe is located at the canal wharf, and Arkwright's Cafe is also nearby.
A popular route is the 2.5-mile walk from Cromford Wharf to Whatstandwell Station, or a 5K loop starting from Cromford Mills. 
Absolutely! The flat towpath is great for strollers, and there are often open spaces for kids to explore.
It's a key part of Derbyshire's industrial heritage, connecting canals and railways, and is located near Cromford Mills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📸 📸 Photography
The old wharf sheds, the canal itself with reflections, and the surrounding natural landscapes offer great photographic opportunities.
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide beautiful light for photography, especially with the water's reflections.
Yes, sites like Cromford Mills and High Peak Junction are excellent subjects for capturing industrial history.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of private property and any specific signage.
Look for waterfowl on the canal, birds in the trees, and any small mammals near the water's edge. Patience is key!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your canal walk with a visit to Cromford Mills, which sometimes hosts family-friendly events and markets.
🐶 Dog Owners
The canal is generally well-maintained, making it comfortable for dogs to walk. Remember to keep them under control, especially near wildlife and other visitors. There are cafes along the route that often welcome well-behaved dogs, and public toilets are available for convenience. It's an ideal spot for a refreshing walk with your canine companion, offering beautiful views and a chance to stretch their legs.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Walkers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Industrial Heritage and the Canal
+1Walking along the canal, you can still see remnants of its working past, such as old wharf sheds and lock systems. The canal pumping station is a particularly fascinating exhibit, demonstrating the engineering prowess required to maintain water levels for navigation.
Many visitors enjoy exploring the Cromford Mills area, which often hosts makers' markets, adding a contemporary artisan feel to the historic setting.
Walking and Nature Trails
These paths are generally well-maintained and relatively flat, making them accessible for most fitness levels. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife along the canal. Keep an eye out for various bird species, ducks, and other small creatures that inhabit the riparian environment.
The changing seasons bring different spectacles, from spring daffodils to autumn foliage, offering beautiful backdrops for photography and leisurely walks. For those seeking a longer challenge, the canal can be integrated into more extensive hikes in the surrounding Peak District National Park.
Social
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