“Rother Valley to Tapton Lock” is a regular route of ours. We probably ride it two to three times per year. So it must be a good ride and what’s more, it’s traffic-free cycling! 

The cycle route starts at Rother Valley Country park near Rotherham. It then proceeds South West to Staverly Canal Basin where it turns West to Tapton Lock in chesterfield. Much of the route follows the path of the Chesterfield Canal so its a great route if you love water and wildlife.

The Chesterfield Canal is a narrow canal in the East Midlands of England and it is known locally as ‘Cuckoo Dyke’. It was one of the last of the canals designed by James Brindley, who died while it was being constructed. Wikipedia

In the video, we start the ride at The Old Mill and Stables Cafe in Rother Valley Country Park. We then head clockwise around the lakes and out on to National Route 67 which goes right past the park. This is part of the Transpennine Trail, the stretch between Chesterfield and Leeds forms the main route of the Transpennine Trail (central).

This route is traffic-free so it is very family-friendly. There are a couple of places where you need to cross a road but they are not very busy at all. When you ride along the canal obviously extra care and attention is required.

Each time we visit the Chesterfield Canal more of it has been improved and developed (in a good way) to heighten the experience of visitors.

More information can be found on the work done on the canal by chesterfield canal trust here.

Enjoy the Video
Steve