Public 'open' week-ends to explore Foxton Locks

THIS weekend sees the opening of week-ends for the public to explore Foxton Locks.

Starting on Saturday 15h February visitors will be able to climb down into a drained lock on the flight to learn how it operates and the maintenance required.

Further activities

This will continue for each of four weekends during February, with further activities that will include photography, fishing, traditional canal painting and Lego big builds—with different activities each weekend.

Over the next two months Canal & River Trust is undertaking maintenance on the flight, replacing a number of gates at Foxton, the longest and steepest ‘staircase’ of locks in the UK, including replacing seven gates of the ten locks together with repairs to brickwork.

Built over 200 years ago

Phil Mulligan, Director for the Canal & River Trust in the East Midlands, explained:

“People may have visited Foxton Locks many times before but they’ve probably never seen it quite like this, there’s nothing quite like descending down into one of the famous locks. It’s fascinating looking up at the giant oak lock gates and in some places you can even see the mason’s marks in the stonework from when the locks were built over 200 years ago.

“The events promise to be a real experience but they will also give visitors the chance to have a go at a variety of fun and creative activities whether that’s traditional canal painting or getting involved in our Lego big build. Come along and enjoy some fresh air and quality family time at this amazing engineering marvel.”

Fish rescue

Before the locks were drained to allow the work to take place, a specialist ‘fish rescue’ took place to temporarily re-home thousands of fish in the sections of canal either side of Foxton.

Activities are taking place each Saturday and Sunday from 15th February through to 8th March. All activities are free, however some have limited spaces so booking is advised. Visitors are advised to wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Parking is limited so please car share where possible.