SUMMERTIME IN BARROWFORD

The recent heatwave has seen locks closed on the stretch of canal at Barrowford, but this hasn’t stopped visitors enjoying walks along the towpath and a spot of retail therapy too!

Attracting visitors from throughout the North West, the village of Barrowford in Pendle is a charming place that is full of character. It sits on the confluence of two rivers where trout can be seen in the clear waters.

If you like niche shopping it’s an upmarket place full of independent boutiques that line the high street, where visitors can stop at one of the cafes, bistros and bars for a little light refreshment! The high street also features pretty 17th and 18th century farmhouses and quaint handloom weavers’ cottages.

The village is also located on the Leeds to Liverpool Canal and at 127 miles, this makes it the longest canal in the north – it has 91 locks seven of which are in Barrowford.

However the recent heatwave has seen the village in the news recently when it was announced that the high temperatures have forced authorities to close some of the locks on a stretch of the Leeds Liverpool canal, including Barrowford.

Due to the continued depletion of the reservoirs, the prolonged low rainfall and with the forecast for further dry weather, temporary lock closures are being implemented between Wigan and Gargrave from the end of July.

The lock flight closure includes Barrowford locks 45 to 51. All the locks on the stretch will be closed and moves will be taken to reduce leakage. It’s not clear how long the closure will last for but it’s likely to be throughout August and potentially beyond if there is no significant rainfall, say authorities.

While the closure will prevent use of that stretch of canal by boats, the towpath will remain open for visitors and the local community alike to enjoy.

The towpath at Barrowford makes for a lovely walk – especially in sunny weather so why not pop over, enjoy a walk and some retail therapy at the same time!

Barrowford is surrounded by beautiful countryside with fantastic views. The area is also ideal for cyclists with a variety of routes ranging from nice and easy family rides to challenging rides taking in the countryside surrounding the renowned Pendle Hill!

Barrowford also holds a fair amount of history as it has been a centre for textile production since the 16th century.

Until the late 18th century, the manufacture of woollen cloth was the primary industry, but in 1780, one of the main mills in the town was rebuilt as a cotton spinning mill.

Check out Barrowford Heritage Centre to learn all about the village’s history!

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Tedd Walmsley

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