Marple Locks
1 / 10

Marple Locks

4.6
·457 reviews·Marple, United Kingdom

Explore historic canal locks and a magnificent aqueduct on the Peak Forest Canal, offering scenic walks and stunning countryside views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming nature, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Marple Locks

Marple Locks

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming nature, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore historic canal locks and a magnificent aqueduct on the Peak Forest Canal, offering scenic walks and stunning countryside views.

4.6
(457 reviews)

"A lovely canalside walk with locks and aqueduct, offering plenty of variety in scenery."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

The towpath can be steep and sometimes muddy. Wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant walk!

📸 Plenty of Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of the locks, aqueduct, and surrounding fields. Bring your camera!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Marple Aqueduct

Marple Aqueduct

Peak Forest Canal

An impressive feat of engineering offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The 16 Locks

The 16 Locks

Peak Forest Canal

Witness the fascinating operation of these historic canal locks, a picturesque and engaging sight.

Canalside Towpath Walk

Canalside Towpath Walk

Peak Forest Canal

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained towpath, with varied scenery and charming waterside views.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Locks

Marple Locks features a series of 16 locks, meaning some sections involve steep inclines. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a climb, especially if you're walking the full length of the towpath. The aqueduct offers stunning views, but access can be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Best Footwear for the Towpath

The towpath along the Peak Forest Canal is generally well-maintained, but can be muddy after rain. Sturdy walking shoes or boots are recommended for a comfortable experience, especially if you plan on exploring beyond the immediate lock area. Consider the weather when packing your gear.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blooming nature, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Sunny views, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn weekends
Why
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One great benefit of having an Our Pass is that you can explore Greater Manchester without paying a penny. There are so many hidden gems in our region, for example Marple in Stockport. Have a great day out for free this half term by hopping on the 383 bus. Tag someone you'd like to walk along Marple Locks with.
ourpass_gm
61 likes • 1.4K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

The towpath can be steep and sometimes muddy. Wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant walk! Reddit

📸 Plenty of Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of the locks, aqueduct, and surrounding fields. Bring your camera! Reddit

A quick walk at 📍Marple - a beautiful town in England . . . . #marplecanal #marplelocks #marpleaqueduct #etherowcountrypark #traveldiaries #yolin🇬🇧
iamyoledie
17 likes • 325 views
Summery walk around Marple locks🌞 See our post for more details!🐾
dogfriendlymanc
55 likes • 1.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Middlewood Way

For a flatter, easier walk, connect to the Middlewood Way from the canal towpath. Reddit

🛍️ Visit the Saturday Market

If you're there on a Saturday, check out the craft and gift market in Marple town. Reddit

It's been a busy couple of weeks in the House; I recently was able to raise our campaign to get Marple Locks World Heritage Site status. #MarpleLocks #WorldHeritage #LisaSmartMP #HazelGrove
lisasmartmp
3 likes • 474 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

The towpath can be steep and sometimes muddy. Wear sturdy shoes for a pleasant walk! Reddit

📸 Plenty of Photo Ops

Capture the beauty of the locks, aqueduct, and surrounding fields. Bring your camera! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Middlewood Way

For a flatter, easier walk, connect to the Middlewood Way from the canal towpath. Reddit

🛍️ Visit the Saturday Market

If you're there on a Saturday, check out the craft and gift market in Marple town. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(457 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Marple Locks for its scenic beauty, impressive engineering, and pleasant walking opportunities. The combination of the historic aqueduct and the active canal locks provides a unique and engaging experience. While some note the steepness of the lock sections, most find the well-maintained towpath and surrounding countryside highly enjoyable.

"The weather was v good ,plenty of photo opertunitys,all round,fields to play football extra shops ,pubs,bus services, train station"

Erick Fricker

"Lovely canalside walk with locks and aqueduct. Plenty of variety in the scenery and a well maintained towpath."

George Symes

"Attractive location on Peak Forest Canal. Nice walking down the tow path. Marple is a pleasant town with good selection of shops and and parks. The Saturday craft and gift market is worth a visit."

Ian Drummond

What People Like

Impressive aqueduct and locks
Scenic canalside walks
Good for families

What People Dislike

Steep sections near locks

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marple Locks is accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also served by a train station and bus services, making it convenient for public transport users. The Peak Forest Canal towpath offers a pleasant walking route to the locks. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available in Marple town, which is a short walk from the locks. Some smaller parking areas might be closer, but can fill up quickly. Reddit

Cycling is possible along the canal towpath, though it can be narrow and shared with pedestrians. The Middlewood Way, a disused railway line, offers a dedicated cycling path nearby. Reddit

Marple train station is the closest and provides good access to the area. From the station, it's a short walk to the canal and locks. Reddit

Several bus routes serve Marple town, with stops within walking distance of the locks and canal. Check local bus timetables for specific routes and times. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Marple Locks and the surrounding canal towpath are free to access and explore. There are no admission fees. Reddit

Marple Locks are part of the Peak Forest Canal and are open 24/7. The surrounding areas and any nearby facilities like shops or pubs will have their own operating hours. Reddit

The Marple Aqueduct is a public structure and can be viewed and accessed freely. There is no charge to visit or admire its architecture. Reddit

While there aren't typically official guided tours, local history groups or canal enthusiasts may occasionally organize events. It's best to check local community boards or websites for any such opportunities. Reddit

General public access is permitted. However, always be mindful of safety around the water and locks, and respect any posted signage. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy scenic walks along the canal towpath, observe the operation of the historic locks, and admire the impressive Marple Aqueduct. There are also fields for recreation and nearby pubs and shops. Reddit

Yes, it's a great spot for families. The towpath offers a relatively flat walk, and the locks can be fascinating for kids. However, supervision is crucial near the water. Reddit

Expect a mix of industrial heritage with the locks and aqueduct, alongside picturesque countryside views, fields, and the tranquil canal. Reddit

While there are no direct facilities at the locks themselves, Marple town is nearby and offers a good selection of shops, pubs, and cafes. Reddit

The canal towpath is generally well-maintained, but can be uneven in places and may become muddy. Some sections are more accessible than others. The aqueduct area is generally accessible. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Marple town, a short walk from the locks, boasts a good selection of pubs and cafes offering various dining options. Reddit

There are no restaurants directly on the locks, but you can find pubs and eateries in the nearby town of Marple. Reddit

Yes, there are open fields and scenic spots along the canal where you can enjoy a picnic. Reddit

Marple offers a range of choices, from traditional pub fare to cafes and other eateries, catering to different tastes. Reddit

While not directly overlooking the locks, some pubs in Marple are located close to the canal and offer a pleasant atmosphere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Marple Aqueduct offers dramatic angles, and the series of locks provides excellent opportunities for capturing the movement of water and boats. The surrounding countryside adds to the scenic shots. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh. Reddit

Focus on the impressive engineering of the aqueduct and locks, the boats navigating the canal, and the natural beauty of the waterside environment. Reddit

A standard zoom lens is versatile. If you enjoy landscape photography, a wide-angle lens can capture the scale of the aqueduct. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local bylaws and aviation authority guidelines before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Marple Locks is a wonderful destination for families. The canal towpath offers a safe and engaging environment for kids to explore, with the fascinating operation of the locks providing a constant source of wonder. The nearby fields are perfect for a game of football or a picnic. Reddit

While the towpath is generally good, be mindful of the steep sections around the locks and always keep a close eye on children near the water. Connecting to the Middlewood Way offers a flatter, more accessible walking option for strollers or younger children who might tire easily. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walkers and Nature Enthusiasts

For walkers, Marple Locks is a gem. The scenic towpath along the Peak Forest Canal provides beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature. You can choose to walk just a section or embark on a longer journey by linking up with the Middlewood Way. Reddit

Nature lovers will appreciate the waterside flora and fauna. The area offers a peaceful escape, with opportunities to spot various bird species and enjoy the tranquility of the canal. The combination of industrial heritage and natural beauty makes for a unique walking experience. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Marple Locks is a photographer's dream, offering a rich blend of architectural marvels and natural landscapes. The Marple Aqueduct provides dramatic perspectives, especially when framed by the surrounding greenery. The series of locks offers dynamic shots of water movement and boat passage. Reddit

Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer, more atmospheric lighting. The contrast between the historic stonework of the aqueduct and the vibrant colors of the seasons can create stunning images. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvels: Locks and Aqueduct

Marple Locks are a significant feature of the Peak Forest Canal, comprising a series of 16 locks that raise and lower boats by a total of 200 feet. This impressive system is a testament to 18th-century canal engineering. Watching the locks in operation, with the gates opening and closing and the water levels changing, is a fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. The towpath provides excellent vantage points to observe this process. Reddit

Dominating the landscape is the Marple Aqueduct, a magnificent structure that carries the Peak Forest Canal over the River Goyt and the valley. Built in the late 1790s, it's a Grade I listed building and a striking example of Georgian civil engineering. The sheer scale and elegance of the aqueduct are breathtaking, offering fantastic photo opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Reddit

Visitors often rave about the visual impact of both the locks and the aqueduct, highlighting them as must-see features. The contrast between the industrial heritage of the canal system and the natural beauty of the valley is a recurring theme in visitor feedback. Reddit

Exploring the Towpath and Beyond

The canal towpath at Marple Locks offers a delightful walking experience. It's generally well-maintained, providing a relatively flat surface for much of the route, though some sections can be steep due to the locks. This makes it a popular choice for leisurely strolls and gentle exercise. The path allows you to immerse yourself in the waterside environment, observing wildlife and the peaceful flow of the canal. Reddit

For those seeking more extensive walking opportunities, the Middlewood Way is a fantastic option. This 10-mile walking and cycling route follows a disused railway line and connects to the canal towpath near Marple. It offers a flatter, more accessible path through varied landscapes, making it ideal for families or those who prefer a less strenuous walk. Reddit

Travelers frequently recommend combining a visit to the locks with a walk along the towpath or the Middlewood Way, emphasizing the variety of scenery and the chance to explore the local area. The accessibility of these paths makes Marple Locks a versatile destination for different fitness levels. Reddit