From Mill Smoke to Slalom Gates: A Springtime Stroll Through Historic Sowerby Bridge

 Sowerby Bridge, nestled in the heart of West Yorkshire's Calder Valley, is a place where industrial grit and rolling green hills meet.  This photo set, perfectly captures this unique blend, telling a story of the town’s past as a vital hub of the Industrial Revolution and its present life as a vibrant, water-focused community.

Relics of the Industrial Giants

The town’s landscape is dominated by the enduring structures built on the wealth of textiles and engineering. These buildings, often made of local sandstone, speak volumes about the power and scale of the mills that once drove the valley.

Nothing defines this legacy more than the iconic mill chimney, as captured dramatically against the bright blue sky in your images. The tall, slender structure of the Carlton Mill Chimney stands as a magnificent, slightly defiant sentinel. One photo perfectly frames it through the narrow arch of Old Cawsey, a classic Sowerby Bridge passage. This viewpoint is gold—it juxtaposes the sheer vertical scale of the chimney with the intimate, historic stonework of the side streets, reminding us that industry was built right into the fabric of daily life.

The Waterways: Heart of the Town

Sowerby Bridge’s existence is defined by water. It sits at the junction of the River Calder and the Rochdale Canal, making it a crucial transit point for transporting coal and wool. Today, these waterways are where the town’s historical and contemporary identities collide.

This shot of Lock 2 on the Rochdale Canal beautifully captures the engineering feat of the 18th century. The sturdy stone walls, the white lock gates, and the church tower looming in the background create a picturesque scene that draws in canal enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This lock is a gateway, physically and metaphorically, connecting Sowerby Bridge to Manchester and the broader network of Britain's canals.

The River Calder: From Industry to Adventure

In the heart of the town, the River Calder transforms from an industrial route to a recreational hub. Your photos brilliantly capture the dramatic, rocky sections of the river, home to a surprising watersport facility.

The images showing the Canoe Slalom course—marked by the vertical white poles and the churning water—reveal a hidden, adventurous side of the town. These shots, framed by the old mill buildings and dense greenery, perfectly illustrate the repurposing of the landscape. The river, once used to power the mills like Valley Mill, is now a playground for canoeists. The rugged, rocky terrain makes for a challenging and scenic course, perfect for capturing the spirit of outdoor adventure in a historic setting.

Hidden Gems and Local Life

Beyond the major structures, Sowerby Bridge hides charming, centuries-old corners.

A visit to Sowerby Bridge isn't complete without a nod to the local landmarks. The image of the Puzzle Hall Inn captures a piece of genuine local history—a traditional pub nestled amongst the new. Similarly, the shot of the Town Hall Clock tower, peeking above the spring foliage, reminds us of the civic pride and architectural detail of the town centre. These human-scale photos ground the massive industrial features in everyday life.

The pictures were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 3rd May 2025, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Brighouse Basin: A Canal-Side Escape in West Yorkshire

The Calder and Hebble Navigation is a vital part of West Yorkshire's rich industrial history, but today, it's also a tranquil and picturesque escape. Nowhere is this more apparent than at Brighouse Basin, a peaceful hub of activity where history and modern-day leisure blend seamlessly.

Approaching the basin, the view opens up to a wide expanse of water, dotted with colourful narrowboats moored along the banks. The basin serves as a perfect base for canal boats, providing a sense of community and a home for those who live on the water. It’s a great place to stop and watch the world go by, as a small pleasure boat might putter its way into the open water, or a family of ducks drifts by in search of a snack.

Walking along the towpath towards the main stretch of the canal, you get a real sense of the waterway's character. The path is well-maintained and provides excellent views of the boats and the surrounding architecture. Old stone bridges span the water, their arches framing the canal as it disappears into the distance. The contrast between the industrial heritage buildings, like the old mill and the striking white silo, and the lush greenery of the trees and bushes is a unique sight.

The canal meanders right through the heart of Brighouse, offering a different perspective of the town. You can see people strolling along the opposite bank, enjoying the sunshine and the peaceful atmosphere. The canal here feels like a hidden gem, a green corridor that provides a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the town centre.

Further down the navigation, the canal continues its journey, passing under more bridges and past more moored boats. The architecture varies from traditional stone buildings to modern flats with balconies overlooking the water. It’s a place that caters to everyone—from the serious boater to the casual walker, or anyone simply looking for a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the view. The Calder and Hebble Navigation at Brighouse is more than just a waterway; it's a vibrant, living piece of history that invites you to slow down and appreciate the beauty of a canal-side life.

I took these pictures in August 2018 with a Nikon d3300, clicking on any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.

From Lock 1 to Hollins Tunnel: The Rochdale Canal

 The Rochdale Canal, a historic waterway winding its way through the picturesque landscapes of northern England, offers a tranquil escape for boaters and nature enthusiasts alike. This blog post will delve into the enchanting stretch of the canal from Lock 1 to Hollins Tunnel.

A Glimpse into History

The Rochdale Canal, completed in 1804, was a marvel of 18th-century engineering. Its construction revolutionized transportation and trade in the region. It was closed to navigation in 1952. Today, the canal serves as a popular leisure destination, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Lock 1 to Sowerby Bridge

The journey begins at Lock 1, Sowerby Bridge lower alongside the canal wharf. Passing through Lock 2 and the newly restored section from here to Bridge 1a Tower Hill. This section was infilled in the 1950's and a new road and car park were built over what was locks 3 and 4. This section of canal was restored in 1996 when Locks 3 - 4 were were replaced by Tuel Lane Lock and Tunnel, the deepest inland lock in the United Kingdom making possible the first full length navigation of the Rochdale Canal since 1937.

Sowerby Bridge: A Canalside Gem

Sowerby Bridge, a vibrant town nestled along the canal, is a highlight of the journey. The town's historic buildings, charming shops, and bustling market square offer a glimpse into its rich heritage. The canalside path is ideal for leisurely walks or bike rides, providing stunning views of the canal and the surrounding countryside.

The Enigmatic Hollins Tunnel

The journey culminates at Hollins Tunnel, a short tunnel through the hillside. Constructed in the early 19th century, the tunnel was a significant engineering feat of its time. Today, it remains a fascinating relic of the industrial age still accessible by pedestrians, cyclists and boats despite being over 200 years old.

A Peaceful Retreat

Whether you're a seasoned boater or a casual visitor, the Rochdale Canal offers a truly unforgettable experience. The serene beauty of the canal, combined with the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, make it a must-visit destination. So, why not embark on a journey along this historic waterway and discover the magic of the Rochdale Canal for yourself.

The pictures below were taken in November 2013 with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, clicking any of them will open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography Zazzle store where merchandise featuring my images can be purchased.

I decided to give them a monochrome look to compensate for the Samsung Galaxy colours looking washed out. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Lock 1 Sowerby Bridge Lower, Sits on the edge of the canal basin, where the Rochdale Canal and Calder and Hebble Navigation meet.

Another of Lock 1, Lock 2 can be seen a short distance away.

Lock 2, Sowerby Bridge upper with the entrance to Tuel Lane Tunnel beyond. Growing up min the 1980's the area beyond the far locks gates was infilled and a grass embankment was in it's place.

Lock 3/4 Tuel Lane, the deepest canal lock in the United Kingdom at a depth of 19feet 8.5inches.

Bridge 1a Tower Hill Bridge, from the 1950's until the canal was re-opened in 1996 the canal terminated just the other side of the bridge, the section towards me forming part of a car park.

Co-op Bridge over the canal is thought to be at least 150 years old. It provided access from the nearby terrace housing to the mills down the valley. The canal tow path can not be accessed from the bridge.

The entrance to Hollins Tunnel.

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A Walk in Winter: The Calder and Hebble Navigation

These black and white photos capture the stark beauty of a winter scene along the Calder and Hebble Navigation. The path, blanketed in snow, winds its way alongside a still waterway. The trees lining the bank are bare, their branches reaching out like skeletal fingers towards the inky sky.

The absence of color in this photo only heightens the sense of tranquility. The world seems hushed, blanketed in a peaceful silence. Footprints visible in the snow are likely those of lonely hikers, making the viewer feel as though they are a remote person in this isolated landscape.

The Calder and Hebble Navigation is a 21-mile canal in West Yorkshire, England. It was built in the late 18th century to connect Sowerby Bridge with Wakefield. Today, the canal is a popular spot for walking, cycling, and boating.

This photo is a reminder that even in the depths of winter, there is beauty to be found in the natural world. The stark contrast of the black and white tones highlights the simple elegance of the scene. The stillness of the river and the bare branches of the trees create a sense of peace and tranquility.

If you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is a great option. A walk along the canal towpath is a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the season, whatever the weather.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is also steeped in history. The canal was an important transportation artery during the Industrial Revolution, and there are a number of old mills and warehouses along its banks. Today, these buildings have been converted into homes, businesses, and arts centers.

Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply looking for a place to relax, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is a great place to visit. So next time you're in West Yorkshire, be sure to take a walk along this historic waterway. You might just be surprised by the beauty you find.

The pictures below were taken on the 17th January 2016 with a Nikon D3300 Camera, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The canal pictured looking away from Walker Lane Bridge towards Chain Bridge. The Sowerby Bridge Gas Works and Gasometers used to occupy a site to the left of the picture just beyond the trees, the gasometers have long since been removed.

The canal is pictured here between Hollas Lane Bridge (Sterne Mills Bridge) and Edwards Road Bridge (Canal Mills Bridge). Both Bridges tend to known by either name, the land to the left of the picture has been redeveloped in to Copley Valley a mixed use zone of housing, industry and nature areas since this picture was taken. The land to the right of the picture may also face redevelopment in the coming years, it was for a number of years a car park for the Halifax Bank's Copley Data Centre, this has been closed for a while now with the data set to close and be sold off in the near future.

The canal towards Mearclough Canal Bridge, the waterway narrows a little here, often wondered why.

The colour versions can be seen below.

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Discovering the Charm of the Huddersfield Broad Canal: Aspley to Turnbridge

The Huddersfield Broad Canal, also known as Sir John Ramsden's Canal, is a hidden gem winding its way through Kirklees, England. This 3.75-mile waterway, adorned with nine wide locks, boasts a rich history dating back to the 18th century.

Originally built to serve the thriving textile industry, the canal played a crucial role in transporting coal and finished goods. Nicknamed the "Broad Canal" to distinguish it from its narrower counterpart, the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, it witnessed the industrial revolution unfold along its banks. Today, the canal stands as a testament to the region's industrial heritage, offering a glimpse into the past.

While its industrial days may be behind it, the Huddersfield Broad Canal has found a new purpose as a haven for leisure activities. Whether you're a keen boater, a cyclist seeking a scenic route, or simply someone looking for a peaceful walk, the canal caters to all.

For boaters, the canal offers a tranquil journey, connecting the Calder and Hebble Navigation at Cooper Bridge with the Huddersfield Narrow Canal near Aspley Basin. For those who prefer dry land, the towpath alongside the canal offers a scenic walking or cycling path. The gentle incline makes it suitable for all fitness levels, allowing you to soak in the picturesque surroundings at your own pace.

The Huddersfield Broad Canal is a reminder of the transformative power of historical waterways. From its industrial roots to its current role as a leisure destination, the canal continues to offer a unique and enriching experience for visitors and locals alike. So, next time you're in West Yorkshire, take a step back in time and explore the charm of the Huddersfield Broad Canal.

The pictures shown below were taken while walking the canal on the 27th May 2023, the first set featured were taken on the stretch between the Narrow Canal at Wakefield Road Bridge to the historic Turnbridge. Clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green photography store on Zazzle.

Aspley Marina from Wakefield Road Bridge.

The end - beginning of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, a short distance to the west of Wakefield Road Bridge and Aspley Marina.

Underneath Wakefield Road Bridge, Aspley Wharf at the tunnels end.

Aspley Wharf Moorings.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the images remain the copyright of Colin Green.