The Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, Lockoford Lane (S41 7JB) is the perfect place to start exploring the Chesterfield Canal and Trans Pennine Trail southern link.   There is lots of information on display about the canal and its history plus other leaflets on self-guided walks and information about the area.  New opening hours have also just been announced for August and will now be open 10am to 6pm every weekend in August and during the week from 10am to 4.30pm (closed for lunch 1 to 1.45pm).

The visitor centre also has a small shop which sells hot and cold drinks, ice cream and snacks plus a good selection of gifts, maps and books.

Other specific events occurring on or along the canal during the summer:

Canal Boat Trips - Chesterfield Canal Trust volunteers also run short 45 minutes canal Boat trips from the visitor centre every Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday throughout the summer months, for your enjoyment!

Geo-cache treasure hunt – Wednesday 10th August - This is treasure hunting for the 21st century, with easy-to-use, hand-held GPS (Global Positioning System) unit you navigate to different locations and when you get there you open the cache or find the secret. Meet at the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre and see if you can solve the clues along a 3 mile easy going walk on the canal. You need a handheld GPS, smart phone or the ability to use grid references and read a map and booking is essential

Hollingwood Open Days – Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th August – Visit Hollingwood Hub (S43 2PN) between 11:00 and 15:00 to enjoy boat trips, exhibitions, stalls and of course Nona’s Coffee Shop will be open.
Nona’s Coffee Shop is also open Wednesday through to Sunday 9:00 until 16:30 for drinks and snacks, the perfect place to stop for your refreshment along the canal.

Art attack! – Wednesday 17th August – Children are invited to Tapton Lock Visitor Centre and have a go at making their own environmental art.  They don’t need to be a skilled artist, just willing to get their hands dirty and have some fun!  All children must be accompanied by an adult and be wearing suitable clothing and footwear.

Get paddling and climbing – Friday 19th August - Join the Rangers and the Outdoor Education Team, again at Tapton Lock Visitor Centre and see what’s in the back of their truck. Try your hands (and feet) on the climbing wall then pick up a paddle and have-a-go at canoeing. Sessions start at 11.00am, 12.30pm and 2.00pm and booking is essential.  All Children must be over 6 years old, wearing suitable footwear and clothing and accompanied by an adult.

For any further information and to book please contact: Tapton Lock Visitor Centre on 01246 551035.