Peak Forest Wanders, Market Days & Lock Flights
On April 16th we waved goodbye to Bugsworth Basin and pulled up right next to Tesco for a proper big shop. It’s not often the canal life aligns so perfectly with supermarket logistics—so we made the most of it.
From there we cruised on to New Mills, moored up for the night, and headed out to stretch our legs along the Millennium Walkway. Clinging dramatically to the side of the gorge, this modern walkway gives you a proper front-row seat to the River Goyt below—equal parts impressive and slightly nerve-wracking if you don’t love heights! We also had a wander around Torr Vale Mill, a huge historic cotton mill that once powered the town’s industry. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop and imagine just how busy and noisy it must’ve been in its heyday.
The next day we pushed on to Marple… and what a spot. We managed to nab a perfect mooring right in the centre—always a bit of a win—and quickly fell for the place. It’s got that proper small-town feel, pretty views, and the iconic flight of locks running through it. Safe to say, Marple has firmly made it onto the “future house buying” list.
Saturday the 18th brought even more charm, with Marple’s monthly market (every third Saturday, if you’re timing your visit right). You know we love a good market, and this one didn’t disappoint—local stalls, a nice buzz, and yet another tick in the “why we love it here” column. We also walked the full length of the Marple Lock Flight to scope out what lay ahead… always slightly intimidating when you realise what you’ve signed up for.
We carried on down to Marple Bridge, a lovely little village at the foot of the locks, before—quite rightly—ending up back at Ring O’ Bells for a well-earned pint. That evening’s menu? Fish and chips, plus our first encounter with a “Rag Pud”—basically a flat steak suet pie. Not the prettiest dish in the world, but surprisingly tasty!
Sunday was a practical day—we winded the boat and got everything ready for the locks. Then Monday morning (yes, early by our standards) we tackled all 16. Four hours later, job done, and we were moored just before Hyde Tunnel feeling rather pleased with ourselves.
Heading further along the Peak Forest Canal, we reached Hyde… and, if we’re honest, it didn’t quite live up to the Upper Peak Forest stretch. You can tell it was once a thriving place, but it’s a bit rough around the edges these days. Still, it wasn’t a wasted stop—we got a few chores ticked off and enjoyed a walk along part of the Trans Pennine Trail, which was a lovely surprise. This long-distance route stretches coast-to-coast and follows old railway lines, canals, and countryside paths—peaceful, green, and a nice escape from the town itself.
By Friday 24th we cruised up to Portland Basin, the end of the canal… but decided fairly quickly it wasn’t for us. So, we winded again and headed back, hoping to grab a familiar mooring—no such luck. We ended up pushing on a couple more miles before settling in. All was calm… until 3:30am when we were woken by very enthusiastic late-night partygoers. Thankfully, they drifted off as quickly as they arrived!
Soon after, we found a much nicer mooring at the foot of the Marple locks—fields of lambs, geese sitting on nests, and proper countryside vibes. From here we wandered back into Marple to collect a very exciting delivery from the Post Office—our new merch! Safe to say we’re really pleased with it: good quality, sustainable, and very “us.” (Link below, of course 👀). And yes… somehow we ended up back at the Ring O’ Bells again. It would’ve been rude not to.
Monday 27th, and it was time to head back up the locks—again, bright and early. This time we had some brilliant help from volunteer Gina and a passerby, Mark, which made a huge difference. Still took us about four hours, but with the amount of traffic on the flight, we reckon it could easily have stretched to six without them.
At the top we sorted water, bins, all the usual bits… but sadly our dream mooring in the centre was full. So on we went, another hour or so cruising (and wrestling with some very shallow edges), before settling near High Lane. It’s quieter out here, with plenty of walks, and only about a two-mile stroll back into Marple—so not a bad compromise at all.
We’ll stay here a few days before heading back towards Poynton, where Helen and Jane are rejoining us in their van. Which can only mean one thing… towpath drinks, campfire meals, and a few good laughs ahead 🍻🔥
And as always, don’t forget to check out the latest vlog to follow the journey — plenty more views, mishaps, and adventures to come! 🚤
And Away... 
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