Frankton Locks Montgomery Llangollen Junction
Experience the engineering marvel of Frankton Locks, a unique staircase lock system on the picturesque Montgomery Canal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Locks operate during these hours
Frankton Locks Montgomery Llangollen Junction
Best Time
Locks operate during these hours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the engineering marvel of Frankton Locks, a unique staircase lock system on the picturesque Montgomery Canal.
"Absolutely worth it! Super fun and a unique, memorable stop."
📅 Book Locks in Advance
Essential to book your lock passage at least a day ahead. Call the canal authority or book online.
⏰ Lock Operating Hours
Locks only operate between 9 am and 1 pm. Plan your visit within this window.
Quick Facts
Rating
5 · 6 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Frankton Locks Staircase
Montgomery Canal
Experience the engineering marvel of this unique staircase lock system. A must-do for boaters and a fascinating sight for visitors.
Montgomery Canal Walks
Canal towpath
Stroll along the peaceful, unspoilt towpath. Enjoy the serene waterside scenery and the tranquility of the Welsh countryside.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Lock Experience
Canal Side Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Book Locks in Advance
Essential to book your lock passage at least a day ahead. Call the canal authority or book online.
⏰ Lock Operating Hours
Locks only operate between 9 am and 1 pm. Plan your visit within this window.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walks
The canal side offers beautiful, unspoilt walks. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
🚤 Boating Experience
If you have a narrowboat, experiencing the locks is highly recommended.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Book Locks in Advance
Essential to book your lock passage at least a day ahead. Call the canal authority or book online.
⏰ Lock Operating Hours
Locks only operate between 9 am and 1 pm. Plan your visit within this window.
🚶♀️ Enjoy the Walks
The canal side offers beautiful, unspoilt walks. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
🚤 Boating Experience
If you have a narrowboat, experiencing the locks is highly recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Frankton Locks for its impressive staircase lock system and the unique boating experience it offers. The beautiful, unspoilt canal walks are also a significant draw. However, some note that the area can become overgrown, and the limited operating hours for the locks require careful planning.
"We brought our 65ft rental narrowboat just to experience the Welsh Channel locks staorcase here — and it was absolutely worth it! We didn’t navigate the full channel, just went up and down the locks to the nearby picnic spot, but it was super fun and well worth the experience. Just make sure to book at least a day in advance(has to be done online or just call8ng channel authority), and be aware the locks only operate between 9am and 1pm. A unique and memorable stop!"
Andrey Smirnov
"Beautiful and unspoilt canal side walks or boating..."
Martin Clarke
"Lovely place. Water point and mooring for monty. Very overgrown when we stayed. Shame these places aren't looked after better."
Darryl Coates
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Frankton Locks is located on the Montgomery Canal. Access is typically by car to nearby parking areas, followed by a walk to the locks themselves. For boaters, it's accessible via the canal network.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check local signage or use a navigation app to find designated parking spots near the canal.
Public transport options might be limited. It's best to check local bus routes and train services to Llangollen or nearby towns and then consider a taxi or a longer walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General access to the canal towpath and viewing the locks is usually free. However, if you plan to navigate the locks with a boat, booking is mandatory.
There is no charge for visitors to view the locks. Boaters will need to book passage, and there may be associated fees from the canal authority.
The locks operate daily between 9 am and 1 pm. It's crucial to adhere to these times for safe passage.
It is recommended to book your passage at least a day in advance, especially during peak season.
While it's best to book in advance, you might be able to book on the day by calling the canal authority, but this is not guaranteed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can witness the impressive staircase locks in action, enjoy peaceful canal walks, or if you're a boater, experience navigating the locks. There's also a nearby picnic spot.
Yes, there is a picnic spot near the locks, making it a pleasant location for a leisurely meal amidst the canal scenery.
Expect to see various waterfowl, dragonflies, and other canal-dwelling creatures. The natural setting provides a good habitat for local wildlife.
Facilities are generally limited. It's advisable to come prepared with your own refreshments and check for nearby amenities in Llangollen or other villages.
Some visitors note that the area can become overgrown. While the locks themselves are maintained, the surrounding canal sides might vary in upkeep.
📸 📸 Photography
The staircase locks themselves offer dramatic photographic potential. Capturing boats navigating the locks or the serene canal landscape are also great options.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for canal photography, offering softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is subject to regulations and landowner permission. Always check local bylaws and safety guidelines before flying a drone.
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