The Peak Forest Canal opened in 1800 to transport limestone from Derbyshire to the rest of the country and is the perfect location to study the history and geography of the local area.

Marple Locks

Investigate the history of the Peak Forest Canal on this guided trail. Look for clues from the past to help you work out what used to happen here. Learn how we use locks to move boats up and downhill and how to be safe around them during a lock demonstration. 

Marple Lime Kilns

Samuel Oldknow built his Gothic inspired Lime Kilns between 1797 and 1802 to burn limestone quarried in the Peak Forest. These Lime Kilns are now a Scheduled Ancient Monument that give us a fascinating insight into our industrial past. Explore the lime kilns from above and below on a guided tour.

Mellor Mill

Combine a trip to Marple Locks with a tour of Samuel Oldnknow’s Mill. Tours are delivered by volunteers from Mellor Archaeological Trust. Charges apply.

Learning Resources

Our visits support the Samuel Oldknow 6 week scheme of work:

Samuel Oldknow KS1

Samuel Oldknow KS2

Discover more about Marple.

Find out more about the canals in Manchester:

Manchester Canals Fact File

Facilities

• This is an outdoor visit with no indoor facilities.
• Public toilets available in Memorial Park.

To ensure your visit runs smoothly and safely by water, we offer visits for one class per booking (roughly 30 children). Visits are 2 hours.

Price

Trips to Marple Locks and Lime Kilns are FREE.