Tapton Lock Visitor Centre
Your friendly gateway to the Chesterfield Canal – perfect for walks, boat trips, and a relaxing coffee by the water.
A Riverside Gateway to the Chesterfield Canal
Tapton Lock Visitor Centre sits on the banks of the Chesterfield Canal, a peaceful waterway winding through the Derbyshire countryside just outside Chesterfield town centre. As the only visitor centre on this historic canal, it acts as a natural starting point for exploring the towpath by foot or bike. The setting is green and open, with views of moored boats, the lock itself, and the surrounding fields and trees, offering a quiet escape from the nearby urban area.What to Expect Inside
The centre is run with a local, community feel, providing practical information for visitors of all ages. You can pick up walking and cycling leaflets, learn about the canal’s industrial past, and get advice on the best routes and distances for your group. There’s a small café-style area serving hot drinks and light snacks, making it a pleasant place to pause, warm up, or refuel before heading out. The staff and volunteers are typically helpful and happy to share stories about the canal and local wildlife.Activities and Events
Tapton Lock is more than just an information point; it’s a base for canal-based activities. Seasonal boat trips depart from the nearby moorings, often run by local heritage or community groups, offering a relaxed way to see the waterway from the water. The centre also hosts occasional family-friendly events, craft sessions, and themed activities, especially during school holidays, which can be a great draw for younger visitors and families.Exploring the Surroundings
The towpath from Tapton Lock leads in both directions along the canal, with well-maintained, mostly flat paths suitable for casual strolls, dog walks, and family outings. To the east, the route heads towards Renishaw and beyond into the countryside, while the western stretch connects to Chesterfield and links with other green corridors. The area is popular with walkers, cyclists, and birdwatchers, and it’s common to see ducks, herons, and other waterfowl along the banks.Local tips
- Check the local canal trust or visitor centre website for the latest schedule of boat trips and special events before your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket; the towpath can be damp or muddy after rain, even in summer.
- Combine your visit with a longer walk or cycle along the canal – pack a picnic and make a day of it.
A brief summary to Tapton Lock
- Lockoford Ln, Chesterfield, S41 7JB, GB
- +441629533020
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
- Friday 10 am-1 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Getting There
-
By car
From Chesterfield town centre, follow signs for the A61 towards Sheffield. Turn off at the Tesco roundabout onto Lockoford Lane; the visitor centre is clearly signed and has a small car park. Allow 5–10 minutes from the town centre, with parking available on-site.
-
By public transport
Chesterfield railway station is about 3 km away. From there, take a local bus towards the A61 or a taxi; the journey takes around 10–15 minutes. The visitor centre is not directly on a frequent bus route, so a short taxi ride or a 30–40 minute walk along the canal towpath is needed.
-
By foot or bike
The centre is easily reached on foot or by bike from Chesterfield via the canal towpath or local cycle routes. Allow 30–45 minutes on foot from the town centre, mostly on flat, traffic-free paths.
