Sowerby Bridge is a market town in Calderdale, West Yorkshire. Originally a crossing point over the River Calder the town grew fast during the industrial revolution on its proximity to the River's Calder and Ryburn that were used to power the textile and engineering mills that grew up around them. As time went on the Rivers were joined by firstly the Calder & Hebble Navigation Canal providing links to Wakefield and beyond, and then the Rochdale Canal with links to Lancashire and Manchester which helped to continue the growth of industry in the Sowerby Bridge area. The railways were next to arrive with Sowerby Bridge featuring a large goods yard at the modern location of Tesco and eventually becoming a railway junction town when the line opened up the Ryburn Valley.
The railway, canals, industries and town entered in to a period of decline after between the wars, that continued for many years after, with it's valley location making it difficult for modern industries to invest and many long standing companies withdrew from the town. In the 1980's the town marketed itself as a tourist destination with the town's annual Rushbearing parade, canoe slalom development and canal re-opening driving much of the regeneration.
The town remains a pleasant place to live, featuring in a number of TV shows in recent years including, Stay Lucky, Happy Valley and the English Game, although it is often overshadowed by it's near neighbours Halifax and Hebden Bridge.
The pictures below can also be seen on Clickasnap un-watermarked, they feature a number of well known locations around the town and were taken with a iPhone 11 on the 26th September 2021.
These pictures taken in March 2019 show various water based images taken around the Brighouse area. They were just randomly taken whilst out for a walk.
There are a total of 7 pictures which can be seen below and on Clickasnap full size, resolution and un-watermarked.
The following pictures which I recently rediscovered were taken of high water levels around Sowerby Bridge during the Boxing Day 2015 flooding that devastated the Calder Valley. This was the worst flooding to hit Sowerby Bridge since the 1960's with millions of pounds in property damage along the route of devastation along the River Calder from Todmorden to Mirfield and beyond. Mytholmroyd and Hebden Bridge suffered a lot more than Sowerby Bridge with the floods but living in Sowerby Bridge it was easier to picture some of the water levels here.
These pictures were taken using a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera on the 26th December 2015. They can be seen below and on Clickasnap full size, resolution and un-watermarked. Copies can also be purchased their if required.
Sometimes, the most captivating sights are found in the everyday, along well-trodden paths. On a recent stroll along the tranquil canal towpath connecting Elland to Salterhebble, I encountered a delightful, albeit temporary, spectacle at Woodside Mill Lock. This particular lock, a familiar landmark on my regular walks, usually presents its characteristic trickle of water cascading over the lower gate – a gentle reminder of the canal's ever-flowing nature.
However, this time, the scene was dramatically different. The lock, evidently recently used, was in the process of refilling. This resulted in the upper gate becoming a miniature waterfall, a torrent of water rushing over its lip and into the lock chamber. The sheer volume of water, combined with the rhythmic rush, transformed the familiar lock into a captivating display of hydraulic power.
It's a reminder of the intricate engineering that keeps our canals functioning, and how even routine processes can create moments of unexpected beauty. The contrast between the typically serene canal and the forceful flow of water was striking. I paused to capture this fleeting moment, grabbing my Samsung Tablet to record a short video.
The video, which you can view below, showcases the unexpected waterfall in all its glory. The sight and sound of the water, coupled with the peaceful backdrop of the canal, made for a truly memorable experience.
Woodside Mill Lock, like many along our canals, holds a rich history. Once a vital part of the region's industrial backbone, these locks facilitated the transport of goods and raw materials. Today, they serve as a reminder of our industrial heritage and offer a peaceful escape for walkers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts.
This unexpected encounter with Woodside Mill Lock's 'waterfall' serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate the small moments of beauty that surround us. Whether it's the gentle ripple of the canal or the temporary cascade of water over a lock gate, there's always something new to discover along our waterways.
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All the pictures and video remain the copyright of Colin Green.
Nestled alongside the tranquil waters of the Calder & Hebble Navigation canal in Copley, West Yorkshire, lies a fascinating piece of local history: the Copley Canal side Arches. What was once a bustling delivery point for coal (or possibly grain) has now been transformed into a peaceful seating area, offering a unique glimpse into the area's industrial past.
As a child, I vaguely recall these arches as a mysterious, walled-off area with a peculiar funnel structure. Looking back, it's clear that these funnels played a vital role in the canal's commercial activity. Barges would transport coal along the canal, and the funnels would efficiently direct the coal into waiting carts below, sheltered within the arched recesses. This clever system allowed for streamlined delivery, a testament to the ingenuity of canal-side operations.
The original setup consisted of a walled-off area above the arches, containing the funnels, with the arched space below serving as a sheltered loading zone. Over time, however, the need for this delivery system diminished. A few years ago, the site underwent a significant transformation. The walls above were partially removed, and the area was paved to create a pleasant seating space, perfectly positioned to enjoy the serene canal views. The arched area directly adjacent to Copley Lane was also walled up, creating a separate, lower-level seating area, offering a more secluded spot to relax.
These changes have breathed new life into the arches, turning a functional industrial site into a charming public space. The juxtaposition of the historic arches and the modern seating creates a unique atmosphere, blending the past with the present.
I captured these images on November 13th, 2013, using my Samsung Galaxy Tablet. They offer a snapshot of the arches as they were during this transitional phase, revealing the remnants of their industrial heritage. Clicking any image below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.
The Copley Canal side Arches serve as a reminder of the vital role canals played in the region's industrial development. Today, they offer a peaceful retreat, inviting locals and visitors alike to reflect on the area's rich history while enjoying the beauty of the Calder & Hebble Navigation.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet spot to unwind, the Copley Canal side Arches provide a unique and captivating experience.
Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media and check out my portfolio on Photo4Me via the link below.
All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.
A new slideshow video I have uploaded to YouTube featuring in order pictures taken along the Calder & Hebble Navigation Canal from Sowerby Bridge Wharf to Bridge number 8 Copley Lane at Copley. The distance is approx. 1.6 miles and the slideshow features 36 pictures.
The video refreshers every 8 seconds with a new image. They were taken over the last 5 years and feature the canal at different times of the year.
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The slideshow remains the copyright of Colin Green.
I had a spare half hour burning a hole in my pocket, the kind of time that begs to be used for something more than scrolling through my phone. Camera in hand, I decided to explore the historic canal wharf at Sowerby Bridge – a fascinating spot where the Rochdale Canal kisses the Calder & Hebble Navigation. It's a place where the echoes of industry mingle with the gentle lapping of water against canal boats, a perfect blend of past and present.
This isn't just any canal wharf. It's a story etched in brick and stone, a testament to the bustling waterways of a bygone era. Think back to the 1770s, when the Calder & Hebble Navigation first snaked its way into Sowerby Bridge. The construction of warehouses 1 and 2 followed, sturdy structures that now house the lively Moorings bar, the aromatic Temujin restaurant, and a collection of quirky little businesses. These Grade II listed buildings whisper tales of trade and innovation.
But the story doesn't end there. When the Rochdale Canal Act was passed in 1793, the Calder & Hebble Canal Company was tasked with building wharves and warehouses to serve the Rochdale Canal – talk about a welcome (and expensive!) surprise! This led to the creation of warehouses 3 and 4. Warehouse 3, affectionately nicknamed the "salt warehouse," became a vital hub for storing salt. Remarkably, it's the only warehouse boasting canal-side access to both the Rochdale Canal and the Calder & Hebble Navigation. Like its older siblings, it's a Grade II listed gem, now buzzing with small businesses and nestled beside the still-active boat yard.
My mini-adventure began at lock number 2, just before the shadowy entrance to Tuel Lane Tunnel. Following the towpath along the Rochdale Canal, I passed lock 1, the imposing warehouses 3 and 4, and reached the Kirkham Turn – the point where the two canals converge. It's a mesmerizing sight, the waters swirling together, carrying reflections of the sky and the surrounding architecture. From there, I continued to Chain Bridge, which arches gracefully over the Calder and Hebble Navigation, with the welcoming Navigation Inn standing guard nearby.
For my return journey, I strolled along the opposite towpath, heading back towards the main basin and the venerable warehouse number 1. The whole walk was a delightful snapshot of Sowerby Bridge's heritage. It's a place where you can almost feel the pulse of history, where the clinking of glasses in the pubs blends with the quiet murmur of the water, and where the legacy of industry meets the charm of a modern community. If you find yourself with half an hour to spare, I highly recommend a wander along this historic wharf. You might just discover a hidden gem, or perhaps, like me, you'll simply enjoy a peaceful moment by the water.
The pictures were taken on July 19, 2017, using my Nikon D3300 DLR camera. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.
Lock number 2, Tuel Lane Tunnel and the Rochdale Canal
Rochdale Canal, Christ Church and the Roxy from Lock 2
Lock 2
The Rochdale Canal between Locks 1 and 2. Wainhouse Tower can be seen in the distance
Lock 1
This picture and the one below are of the Salt Warehouse, home to a number of varied businesses
Kirkham Turn, the point where the Rochdale Canal joins the Calder and Hebble Navigation.
Chain Bridge, the first crossing over the Calder and Hebble Navigation. The Navigation Inn is to the left and Wainhouse Tower can be seen in the distance
The Calder and Hebble Navigation towards Kirkham Turn from under Chain Bridge.
Chain Bridge and the Navigation Inn
The Calder and Hebble side of the canal basin and Warehouse number 4
The Salt Warhouse on the Calder and Hebble side of the canal basin
The boat moorings and warehouses 1 and 2
Warehouse number 1, home to a number of businesses.
Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media and check out my portfolio on Photo4Me via the link below.
All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.
A small selection of the pictures have been edited into this YouTube album above. The full set can only be seen on Clickasnap.
