Walkers follow in Oldknow’s footsteps
EAST Cheshire Ramblers recently enjoyed a walk in the footsteps of Samuel Oldknow, a key figure in the Industrial Revolution in Marple and Mellor.
The walk began at Marple Ridge, crossing the Peak Forest Canal and River Goyt and continued alongside the Roman Lakes in Marple.
The group stopped to look at the archaeological excavations taking place on the site of Mellor Mill. Built by Oldknow in 1790-1792, it was the largest cotton spinning mill of its time in the world.
The walk continued up to Mellor churchyard for a coffee stop and an opportunity to take in the magnificent views.
Following the Cown Edge Way, the group took a looping route to cross the Glossop Road and into Etherow Country Park.
Following lunch, they followed the Etherow Goyt Valley Way to the Peak Forest Canal and Marple Aqueduct. Opened in 1800, the aqueduct is 100 feet above the River Goyt and is England’s tallest aqueduct with a masonry arch.
Following the canal, the group walked past the flight of 16 locks, largely funded by Oldknow, into the centre of Marple, passing Oldknow’s warehouse and pausing in the Memorial Park to look at the headstone of Oldknow’s mill.
The route continued under Posset Bridge – named after Ale Posset – a drink given by Oldknow to his workers to improve their workrate! At Top Lock, the group took time to look at the lime kilns; the last piece of the Oldknow jigsaw.
Following the Peak Forest Canal, the group walked back to the car park at Marple Ridge.
For more information go to ramblerseast cheshire.org.uk