Barbecues are not permitted at any of our sites.
We have 5 miles from Chesterfield to Staveley that is open for boating and then another 9 miles in need of restoration. For more information about the history and restoration of the canal visit the Chesterfield Canal Trust.
Canal towpath work
Work is starting on 25 September 2023 to improve parts of the canal towpath.
The public footpath along the route has a 3 month legal closure and may have to be closed during works, but we aim to maintain access wherever possible.
There will be signs on the route to indicate when closures will be in place. For the safety of the public and our workforce please follow any instructions given.
Regular updates will be posted to the Tapton Lock Facebook page.
Access
The canal towpath is multi-user so whether you are walking, cycling, have a pram or a wheelchair you can enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Photographers ae always keen to try and catch the brilliant blue flash of a kingfisher as it darts past. We have a Tramper mobility scooter.
Canoes and stand-up paddle boards
The canal is becoming much more popular with paddlers and they're lovely to see. All paddlers must log their visit with us at Tapton Lock Visitor Centre - tel: 01629 533020, email countrysideservice@derbyshire.gov.uk or by message us on Facebook.
British Canoeing members paddle free of charge. All other users need a day licence and show public liability insurance.
Several local groups use the canal to coach children and young adults in the handling of canoes and water safety.
Boating
You can buy a licence from Tapton Lock Visitor Centre which allows you to launch your own trailer boat on the Chesterfield canal. You'll need third party or public liability insurance. See the fees, licence, terms and conditions, and application forms attached to this page.
CC16 boat licence fee for Chesterfield Canal
Effective from 1 June 2022.
Pleasure boat:
- 1 day: £7.50
- 1 week: £30.00
- 1 Year: £148.00
Portable boat:
- 1 day: £2.50
- 1 week: £10.50
- 1 year: £74.50
British Canoeing members are free (conditions apply). Contact Tapton Lock Visitor Centre for details.
Group rates
Profit organisations (up to 10 boats):
- 1 week: £74.50 (additional boats £7.50 each)
- 1 year: £562.00 (additional boats £56.00 each)
Not for profit organisations and LEA schools (up to 10 boats):
- 1 week: £37.00 (additional boats £3.70 each)
- 1 year: £183.00 (additional boats 18.30 each)
Boat trips
On summer weekends and bank holidays you can enjoy a trip from on the Chesterfield Canal Trust trip boats. You can also meet Santa on the boat on one of the special trips in December.
Fishing
You can enjoy fishing on the canal only where you find a built fishing platform.
For information on where to fish call in at Tapton Lock Visitor Centre.
We're currently seeking a club to manage the fishery on the canal. Please tel: 01629 533020 to express an interest.