Todmorden

Sadly we had to leave Hebden Bridge today as we are booked to travel over the summit on Monday. Due to lack of water British Waterways are only allowing 2 boats a day each way over the summit, and there was a 1.5 week waiting list for places, so we cannot afford to miss our slot.

The first task however was yet another pumpout. Although we had one last week, there is a problem in that there are no pumpout facilities between Hebden Bridge and the other side of Manchester. We therefore had to make sure we have plenty of spare capacity otherwise.......

Approaching Lobb Mill Lock on the Rochdale canal

We then set off with Rebecca to travel the 5 miles and 10 locks to Todmorden. Although there was some rain the journey was made enjoyable by the scenery as we continue to cruise up Calderdale. The attractive woodland is made more interesting by the succession of grey stone mill hamlets overlooked by the tall chimneys of their mills situated close to the canal.

The Great Wall of Tod

We are now moored in Todmorden, a somewhat austere and isolated Victorian industrial town. Our moorings are opposite the "Great Wall of Tod", a massive brick retaining wall protecting the canal and supporting the railway line which follows the route of the canal. It is said the some 4 million bricks were used in its construction.