
Over 200 years ago the canal was the main transport route connecting Cromford with the outside world. Not only did it carry goods but it was vital for communication – the broadband of its day. And we thought dial-up slow!
Within the wharf area there was a warehouse, a weighing machine, saw pit, counting houses, stables and a smithy. What other evidence of industry can you spot here? Look out for the crane on the end of the cafe building, used for loading goods.
Notice in the wide canal area where the canal splits for the two wharf sheds, there is an arched stone boat house. This was Arkwright’s private boathouse, at the bottom of his garden.