
Audlem Locks
A stunning 15-lock staircase on the Shropshire Union Canal, offering a glimpse into Britain's industrial heritage and peaceful waterside walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Audlem Locks
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 15-lock staircase on the Shropshire Union Canal, offering a glimpse into Britain's industrial heritage and peaceful waterside walks.
"A beautiful and historic spot to watch boats navigate the impressive lock system."

🚶♀️ Enjoy a Towpath Stroll
Take a leisurely walk along the canal towpath for scenic views and a peaceful experience. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture stunning shots of the locks, boats, and surrounding countryside. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lock Flight
Shropshire Union Canal
Witness the impressive 15-lock staircase, a marvel of canal engineering. Watch boats ascend or descend this iconic waterway.

Canal Towpath Walk
Adjacent to the locks
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the historic towpath, soaking in the tranquil countryside and canal atmosphere.

Audlem Village
Short walk from the locks
Explore the picturesque village of Audlem, with its charming shops, pubs, and St. Mary's Church.
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Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Audlem Locks
Understanding the Locks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Towpath Stroll
Take a leisurely walk along the canal towpath for scenic views and a peaceful experience. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture stunning shots of the locks, boats, and surrounding countryside. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are limited facilities, so bring your own food and drinks to enjoy by the water. :sandwich:
🕰️ Check Lock Operation Times
If you want to see boats navigating, check the operating times for the locks, especially outside peak season. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Enjoy a Towpath Stroll
Take a leisurely walk along the canal towpath for scenic views and a peaceful experience. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Perfect for Photographers
Capture stunning shots of the locks, boats, and surrounding countryside. :camerawithflash:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are limited facilities, so bring your own food and drinks to enjoy by the water. :sandwich:
🕰️ Check Lock Operation Times
If you want to see boats navigating, check the operating times for the locks, especially outside peak season. :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Audlem Locks is appreciated for its historical significance and the peaceful, scenic environment it offers. Visitors enjoy the opportunity to witness canal boats navigating the impressive lock system and the tranquil walks along the towpath. While facilities are minimal, the charm of the location and the nearby village make it a worthwhile visit for those seeking a connection to Britain's waterway heritage.
"Very quick to respond to my message and then on the day phoned me when he said he would and turned up exactly when he said he would. LockMan went above and beyond when fixing my lock when it turned out to be a bigger job than expected and the price was very reasonable too. Would recommend to everyone! Thank you"
Deborah Layton
"Helped fix my door. Really nice professional guy. Was able to solve an issue saving me hundreds of pounds and gave a really reasonable price. Would recommend"
Dillon Mellor
"We managed to lock ourselves out of our house on a Saturday night. Lee arrived quickly and managed to get our door open again in no time at all! He was friendly and knowledgeable. He even went the extra mile by showing us how we can sort an issue we were having with our door.
Highly recommended!"
Colin M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Audlem Locks are located near the village of Audlem in Cheshire. The nearest major road is the A529. Parking is available in Audlem village, with a short walk to the locks. Public transport options are limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the locks.
Yes, there is parking available in Audlem village. From the village, it's a pleasant walk along the towpath to reach the lock flight.
Public transport to Audlem is infrequent. Bus services connect Audlem to nearby towns like Nantwich. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance if relying on public transport.
The best way to explore is by walking along the canal towpath. This allows you to see the locks from different angles and enjoy the scenery.
Audlem village itself is worth exploring, with its historic church and local amenities. The surrounding Cheshire countryside also offers beautiful walking opportunities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Audlem Locks. It is a public waterway and surrounding towpath, making it freely accessible to all.
Audlem Locks are always accessible as it's an outdoor public space. However, the locks themselves are operated by boaters and the Canal & River Trust, so active lock usage will depend on boat traffic and operational hours, particularly during the boating season.
No, the towpath alongside Audlem Locks is part of the public canal network and is free to access.
Formal guided tours are not typically offered. However, you can often learn a lot by observing boaters and canal enthusiasts who are passionate about the area.
While the area is outdoors and accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to lack of lighting and potential safety concerns. Stick to daylight hours for the best and safest experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can watch boats navigate the 15 locks, enjoy a peaceful walk along the towpath, have a picnic, and explore the nearby village of Audlem.
Walking the entire flight of 15 locks can take around 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to watch boats.
Facilities are limited directly at the locks. The village of Audlem, a short walk away, has pubs and shops where you can find refreshments and restrooms.
Yes, children can enjoy watching the boats and the mechanics of the locks. Adult supervision is essential due to the water.
You might spot various waterfowl, dragonflies, and other canal-dwelling creatures. The surrounding trees and fields also support diverse birdlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the lock flight offers a great overview, while the bottom provides a different perspective. The curves of the canal and the surrounding greenery also make for beautiful shots.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and flattering light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Absolutely! Watching boats navigate the locks is a key part of the experience and makes for dynamic photographs. Be patient as it can take time.
Generally, there are no restrictions on personal photography. However, always be mindful of private property and boaters' privacy.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wide canal scenes and details of the locks. A polarizing filter can help with reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel of Audlem Locks
The design of the locks, with their sturdy brickwork and intricate gate mechanisms, showcases the ingenuity of the era. Watching a boat navigate through several locks in succession is a testament to the skill of the boaters and the enduring functionality of this historic infrastructure. It's a living museum of industrial heritage, offering a glimpse into the past of Britain's waterways.
For those interested in the history of canals and industrial heritage, Audlem Locks provides a tangible connection to the past. The surrounding towpaths, originally used by horses to tow the barges, are now perfect for leisurely walks, offering a unique perspective on the scale and importance of these waterways.
Experiencing Audlem Locks as a Boater
Boaters often report that the locks are well-maintained, but can be busy during peak season. The process of winding the paddles to control water flow and operating the heavy lock gates is a core part of the canal boating experience. It's a social affair, with opportunities to chat with fellow boaters and share tips.
Many boaters find the experience of passing through Audlem Locks to be one of the highlights of their trip. The sense of accomplishment after successfully navigating the entire flight, combined with the beautiful scenery, makes it a memorable part of any canal adventure.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit