Ashton

A UK Canal Boating Article

Category : Canals

 

Length : 6 miles
Locks : 18
Aqueducts : 1
Originally know as the Manchester and Ashton-under-Lyne Canal it was built in 1792 to serve the coal industry around Oldham, Ashton and Hyde. The Canal served as an important link from the Pennines and between the NorthWest's industrial heartland and the Peak District. In the 1950s commercial traffic ceased on the canal and it soon became derelict but in 1974 it was reopened due to an extensive restoration project. The Ashton Canal was given further prominence by the Commonwealth Games of 2002 which we restaged at the Manchester Stadium beside the canal.

PLACES OF INTEREST ON ROUTE

The Thomas Belford in Piccadilly Village has moorings and the new refurbished areas include a picturesque marina,riverside walkways and landscaped areas abundant with wildlife.

The Portland Basin Museum is housed within a restored nineteenth century warehouse on a peaceful canal side setting. The museum has something to offer the whole family, see the sights and sounds of a 1920s street or take a peep into the kitchen and parlour to find out how we used to live. Explore the heritage exhibitions and discover what life was like down the mines or on the local farms.

Store Street Aqueduct is a grade II listed building and was built in 1798 by Benjamin Outram. At 220 feet long it is most unusual as it is built at an angle of 45 degrees across Store Street. It is believed to be the first major aqueduct of its kind in Great Britain and is the oldest still in use today.

Manchester Stadium is home to one of the most famous Football Clubs in the world – Manchester City. Experience the atmosphere, learn about the club's 130 year history or even have a go at commentating. Take a look behind the scenes and walk in the footsteps of your football hero's.

If you enjoy cycling you may also want to take a trip to the Manchester Velodrome which is situated on the canal-bank. This is the first purpose built indoor cycling centre in the UK.

Restoration work has been carried out on the tow paths and these now give direct access into Manchester City Centre. Improvements include a high quality towpath finish with adjacent landscaped areas including seating, lighting and new access bridges.

 

 

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