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Dobson Lock, Bradford

Dobson Lock, Bradford

Dobson Lock, Apperley Lane, Apperley Bridge, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD10 0PY

Dobson's Lock in Apperley Bridge sits on the Leeds Liverpool Canal. The warehouses were built in the early 1800s to hold merchandise being transported along the busy Leeds Liverpool Canal. Lock gates and swing bridges were also made here and the old blacksmith's workshop has been restored and runs demonstrations on special event days.

The site is a great place to visit as part of local history work or as part of a transport topic.

Educational visits to Dobson Lock

Dobson Lock is a small, compact site, making it a great option for a short visit for younger pupils.

  • Workshops

    KS1&2 Site Tour

    A local history session to help pupils understand what a canal is, how it was made and the big difference it made to the local area.

    KS1&2 Waterside Habitats

    Discover who has made their home at Dobson Lock.

    New for 2026 - Waterside Wellbeing

    Join us for a cross-curricular waterside wellbeing visit. We will be incorporating storytelling, natural artwork, habitats, local history, reflection and wellbeing exercises into a visit to Dobson Lock.

    Lock Demonstration

    Water Safety

    Guided walk with habitats or history focus

  • Learning Resources
  • Facilities

    We offer free preliminary visits and our website features downloadable trails/activities suitable for pre-visit planning or follow-up work

    There is a small amount of parking on site, but this is not accessible for coaches who must drop off on the main road.

    This site has no toilets.

  • Price

    Visits to Apperley Bridge are FREE!

Last Edited: 27 August 2025