We popped down to the Chesterfield Canal today, which is just perfect for walking as it's flat, starting at Tapton Lock.
The towpath is called 'The Cuckoo Way'. There seems to be much debate about the term Cuckoo. Some say it dates back to when unusual looking long and thin boats appeared on the River Trent. The river boatmen thought the canal boatmen were mad (as a cuckoo) for sailing in the wild river in a narrowboat. Others believe the boats was seen as 'cuckoos in the nest' for stealing cargoes from the Trent boats. Source No longboats were about today though.
Even though you can walk for miles, we preferred a shorter walk. We always come across many people on the canal, fellow walkers, cyclists, joggers, and the odd person who is sitting reading a book in the sun!
The only issue is the odd cyclist who comes up behind you with a short ring of their bell and then go far too fast past you within an inch of your life! One day, we are going to end up in the canal.
It was quite warm and there were some beautiful reflections on the water.
You can't go down many canals without seeing a bit of graffiti.
I enjoy walking along the towpath as you see the pretty ... and the not so pretty. I do agree with the sentiments of the graffiti though ....
We are finally beginning to see the odd butterfly. This is a pretty peacock.
The speckled wood butterfly, probably not as pretty but still has some nice markings to it.
You have to be quick in taking a photograph, which can be quite frustrating at times.
Along the towpath, there are quite a few blackberry bushes, but they aren't ripe yet. Later on in the year, there will also be sloe berries to make sloe gin. Just in time for Christmas.
The Chesterfield Canal Trust has done a great job restoring the canal. There are still about 9 miles to restore with a target of four years to complete the regeneration work. Source