Walks Will Explore Canal History

Published on: 25 Aug, 2015
Updated on: 25 Aug, 2015

Walking by the Wey & Arun Canal.

Historic waterway locations on a 19th century canal route will be explored during two guided walks over the 2015 Heritage Open Days weekend.

The Wey & Arun Canal Trust (WACT) is inviting members of the public on the strolls, to introduce its restoration work on the northern section of the navigation.

Trust chairman Sally Schupke said: “These are opportunities for people to hear about what we are doing to bring the canal in Surrey back to life, as well as enjoy pleasant and interesting excursions in the countryside.”

Wey & Arun Map – Copyright Wey & Arun Canal Trust

The first walk is on Saturday, September 12, meeting at 2.15pm in the car park of Shamley Green Church, Church Hill, Shamley Green, Surrey (GU4 0UD).

Led by the Trust’s technical liaison officer, Alan Johnson, it will follow a four-mile circular route to visit four sites containing relics of the canal and the Horsham to Guildford railway, including three iron-framed bridges.

On Sunday, September 13, walkers will meet at 2pm at the Gunpowder Store, Stonebridge Wharf, on the River Wey at Shalford. With WACT publicity officer Rob Searle, they will explore parts of the canal route down to the former Bramley Wharf.

This 1½ mile stroll, taking approximately two hours, will take in the Tannery Lane roving bridge and the sites of the Tannery Lane Lock and the unique Gosden Aqueduct. It is also an opportunity to explore the new Hunt Nature Park which is being created by WACT volunteers.

The Gunpowder Store held the products of Chilworth Gunpowder Mills before they were sent off by barge to London via the rivers Wey and Thames or to the South Coast on the Wey & Arun Canal.

Parking for walkers is available at Broadford Business Park, Shalford GU4 8EP, behind the Parrot Inn on the A248.

Most of the walk routes are not on metalled surfaces, so it will be essential to wear walking boots, stout shoes or trainers.

The events are free, but donations to the trust will be welcome. Booking is essential, by e-mail to events@weyandarun.co.uk or by calling 01483 505566, by September 3 for the Saturday and by September 11 for the Sunday.

08/25/2015