Cromford Wharf is the historic terminus of Cromford Canal. Built at the end of the 18th century, the wharf was designed to cater for large amounts of both incoming and outgoing traffic.
Within the wharf area there was a warehouse, a weighing machine, sawpit, counting houses, stables and a smithy. Many of the old canal buildings still stand.
Cromford Canal offers something for everyone: It long since ended its role as a working canal but retains much of its historical interest. It now forms part of the the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
It is the ideal location for a short stroll, a nature walk or a longer walk.
Follow the towpath for a mile (approx. 30 minutes walk) and you will come to the Middleton Top Countryside Centre at High Peak Junction where there are refreshments, gifts and a variety of maps walk leaflets and books. Here you can step back in time with the fascinating Audiotour and discover the history of Cromford Canal and the Cromford and High Peak Railway.
The site is also a haven for wildlife and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Little grebes and water voles can be seen throughout the year. In summer look out for dragonflies, damselflies and hoverflies.