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 Shardlow
has a unique place in the history of this country. The 18th
century canal port, with all its associated wharves and
warehouses is clearly to be seen. |
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| Originally a river port, Shardlow developed greatly with the opening of the Trent and Mersey Canal in 1770. Goods were transferred from wide boats to narrowboats and stored during this operation or while awaiting redistribution by road, in a growing range of warehouses. Along with this development came all sorts of other businesses and buildings to support the carriers - boat builders, ropewalks, workshops, stores, stables, offices, workers cottages and owner's houses. The decline of the Canal business brought different uses for the warehouses but the area remains remarkably unchanged. | Shardlow Heritage Centre is housed in the oldest of these warehouses. It tells the story of the village from Roman times to the present day with particular emphasis on the canal port. It includes wall and cabinet displays, a mock up boat cabin, an audio visual introduction to the village today, dressing up clothes for children, a small library and sales area and an extremely friendly and helpful group of volunteer staff. | |
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Finding
The Shardlow Heritage Centre: Follow the signs to Shardlow from the A50 between junction 24 of the M1 and Derby. Once in the village look for the Clock Warehouse family pub. The Centre shares its car park. Opening hours are: Easter - End of October - Saturdays, Sundays & Bank Holidays 12 noon - 5.00 p.m.; PLUS July, August, September as above plus Fridays 12 noon - 5.00 p.m. Admission 50 pence Free Parking Walks, talks and group visits by arrangement. Web Site: http://homepages.which.net/~shardlow.heritage/index.htm email: shardlow.heritage@which.net (Graphics and information courtesy of Shardlow Heritage Centre.) |
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