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Boating the Macclesfield Canal

Find boating information for the Macclesfield Canal

Narrowboat in Bosley Lock on the Macclesfield Canal

Macclesfield Canal Breach

Unfortunately, there has been a breach on the Macclesfield Canal near Bosley due to a leak in the canal bed. Find out more on our latest news pages

Macclesfield Canal

Length	26.25 miles
Locks	13

Note: A handcuff key will be required as anti-vandal locks are fitted along this canal.

Maximum boat dimensions

Length	21.95m	72ft
Width	2.13m	7ft
Draught	1m	3ft 3"
Headroom	2.08m	6ft 10"

Visit our boating section
Find everything you'll need to know about boating on our canals
Visit our boating section
Find everything you'll need to know about boating on our canals
Check our notices
Before you travel, check our route for any works
Check our notices
Before you travel, check our route for any works
Downloadable waterway guides
Detailed maps and boating information for all our waterways
Downloadable waterway guides
Detailed maps and boating information for all our waterways
Macclesfield Canal
Passing through mostly green and rural surroundings, with Victorian mills and warehouses along the way adding distinctive character
Macclesfield Canal
Passing through mostly green and rural surroundings, with Victorian mills and warehouses along the way adding distinctive character

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Last Edited: 09 April 2025

photo of a location on the canals

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