In Convoy to Bugsworth

Amy on NB Black Bryony arrived at Bridge 24 first thing this morning, having travelled up from Marple. She is the solo boater I helped up Bosley locks last Sunday. Then Carol and Sonja arrived, a little later, so we all decided to get off together. With Amy sandwiched between the other 2 boats she didn’t have to struggle with either of the last 2 swing bridges.

Through Bridge 24, Black Bryony on the left.
There’s quite a few boats moored around Furness Vale, on pontoons alongside the canal. This (and Poynton) are probably where the citizens of Manchester keep their boats.

There’s one with an unusual cratch design… Yes, it’s planked!

Surely not!
The canal still hugs the side of the Goyt valley, with views across through gaps in the trees.

Goyt Valley

There are 2 railway lines running through the valley, the lower one crosses the river on this viaduct near New Mills.

Railway Viaduct.
We arrived at Bugsworth Basin around 14:00. It’s changed a lot since we last came, about 25 years ago. Then the Inland Waterways Protection Society had been clearing overgrowth and doing some structural repairs, but the basin itself was closed. Since then it’s been cleared of debris, the area around landscaped and interpretation boards installed. It’s really a fascinating place.

Bugsworth Basin

The canal is very pretty, with a good towpath but limited mooring opportunities. With the basin at the end, it’s well worth a visit.

Locks 0, miles 4