Families are being encouraged to explore a 200-year-old marvel of engineering this summer as the Canal & River Trust launches a programme of summer activities at Foxton Locks, Leicestershire.
The charity is holding a series of activities helping people to discover the wildlife and historic features at the site, the UK’s longest, steepest flight of staircase locks, built by hand more than 200 years ago to help raise cargo-carrying boats 75ft uphill. Set in 34 acres of natural green space, it is also home to the remains of the Foxton Inclined Plane, a Victorian boat lift designed to haul boats up the hill, and now a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
Families will be able to craft using natural materials, have a go at traditional canal art, enjoy a waterside story or hunt for watery bugs and beasts with special pond dipping sessions. There will also be guided walks to find out more about the history of the site and the wildlife it calls home. All activities are being led by the charity’s volunteers and are free, but donations are welcome.
Jannette Warrener, destination and attractions manager for the Canal & River Trust, said: “Foxton is a real marvel of engineering and so many people are blessed to have such a special place to explore.
“While the locks are temporarily closed to boats due to the drought, there are still lots of reasons to visit this special site. These events will enable people to delve a little deeper and find out more about the history of Foxton Locks and the amazing wildlife that can be found there.”
The events are:
- August 16: Canal painting (canal boat horses)
- August 20: Pond dipping
- August 21: Story time
- August 25: Pond dipping
- August 28: Story time
Guided walks are also available. Story reading is aimed at primary school aged children and will take place from 10.30am to 1pm in the Top Lock cottage book shop. All other activities take place between 10am and 3pm in the Welcome Station at Top Lock.
