Cromford Canal is part of our industrial heritage which also offers pretty walking routes with interesting buildings along the way.
This is one of the restored canal boats which have been operated by Friends of the Cromford Canal for many years. I remember having my birthday celebration on a canal boat here 40 years ago.
The above photo is of Leawood Pumphouse, which was built in 1849 to pump water from the River Derwent into Cromford Canal. It remains in working condition thanks to the Middleton Top and Leawood Pump Volunteer Group.
Our walk carried on along the canal towards the tunnel that leads up a long steep incline to Black Rocks, a weathered outcrop of Ashover grit.
The Black Rocks site was mined for lead, and the spoil on the scree slope leading up to the rocks supports many interesting lead tolerant plants: leadworts.
The rocks themselves are sculptured into interesting forms by the weather and are a great place to stop and enjoy the view across the valley.
All photos taken by me. If you have enjoyed this glimpse into the Cromford area please follow, upvote and resteem!
Until the next post, Nikki the MaskedBlogger. x