Ilkeston - A Brief Respite
w/e 25 January 2026
All of this week's pictures were
taken with a Nikon D3300 camera
It was a fine day - actually it was a brief respite
that lasted all of one afternoon in a week of dull, overcast
and wet days when we were able to get out for a walk without
the fear of being caught by the rain.
Our walk took in part of the Erewash Canal between Green's Lock
(above) and Potter's Lock.
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We reached the towpath by crossing the footbridge over the canal.
The large building opposite is one of the last units on the Furnace
Road Industrial Estate as it tapers between the canal and the
railway line. A little further along the canal towards Potter's
Lock the railway line runs close to the hedge at the side of
the towpath.
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Near Green's Lock the high hedge shields the canal from
the industrial estate.
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It is possible to walk along both sides of the canal between
the two locks but the surfaced towpath is probably more favoured
than some of the uneven parts on the other side but you do have
to be aware of cyclists as the towpath is part of the Erewash
Valley Cycle Trail.
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One access point to the path on the other side is from
the end of Wade Avenue.
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It's always tempting to use the Erewash Valley greeting
of "Ey up me duck" when mallards swim by.
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Despite the proximity of the housing and the passing trains,
the canal presents a valuable and relatively peaceful facility
within easy reach of residents of the town.
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Nearing Potter's Lock the path on the other side of the canal
ends but gives access to the Larklands Play Area which can be
crossed on the grass to reach Monk's Close and the lock.
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At Potter's Lock bridge number 19 crosses the canal which, by
the varying brickwork has obviously undergone extensive renovation
at different times in its history.
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Swans, ducks and other waterfowl are often to be seen along the
canal and in the locks but I've never seen an alligator although
someone had left a croc at the side of Potter's Lock!
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