Chesterfield Canal Walking Festival returns with 42 guided walks

The festival will run from September 11 to 19, 2021 and offer 42 guided walks, ranging from a one-mile stroll to a full 20 miles.

David Blackburn, who is walks officer at Chesterfield Canal Trust which runs the festival, said: “After last year’s cancellation, we are delighted to be back.

“The canal is an absolute delight at any time of year, but early autumn possibly sees it at its best.”

Much of the scenery along the 46-mile stretch of the canal, which runs from Chesterfield to West Stockwith, is picturesque. Particularly beautiful is the Giant’s Staircase of 23 locks in just over a mile between Kiveton and Shireoaks that feature in several of the walks.

There are special interest walks, such as Wildlife, History, Architecture and Restoration as well as opportunities to explore some of the attractive towns and

villages in north Nottinghamshire.

You can combine a walk with a cruise on one of the trust’s trip boats or explore the delights of geocaching.

New this year is the opportunity to tow the trust’s 70’ Cuckoo boat and there is even a cycle ride with a difference.

Waterway and railway buffs will relish the opportunity of a canal and river walk finishing up with a guided tour of Britain’s last surviving working Railway Roundhouse at Barrow Hill.

Serious walkers can join a 20-mile jaunt from Chesterfield to Worksop. This covers 12 miles of the canal that has been restored since 1989 and the eight miles that are still to be reawakened.

All the walks are free except for those combined with a boat. They must be booked in advance, either online via the trust’s website at https://chesterfield-canal-trust.org.ukor by ringing 01246 477569.

A brochure with full details is available at various places along the canal, including Hollingwood Hub and local Tourist Information Centres. It is also available online.

All the walks will be subject to the latest Covid advice, so participants should come prepared with a face covering, even if it will not actually be required.