Find out about the Canal History

There’s plenty to learn about the original plans for a canal to Derby, its rise and eventual fall, and our plans to restore the canal to its former glory as best we can, with some modern twists!

Explore the Canal Line

Much of the old canal line is still accessible on foot or by bicycle, so why not explore it!

Our Route Map can provide a good aid for keen explorers, and you may even spot us out and about performing works on the canal – feel free to pop over for a chat.

Keep up to date with our Restoration activities

We’ve got ambitions and activities in progress for the whole canal line, so keep up to speed with changes in your area by visiting our restoration pages.

Our Vision for the future of the Derby & Sandiacre Canal is ambitious, but definitely achievable with continued public support at all levels.

Learn about, and invest in, our plans for the future

Our first stretch of Canal “back into water” will be at Draycott, where we’re are currently looking for public donations. The “Golden Mile” as it is locally referred to, will be the impetus for further funding and support we need to get the rest of the canal line back to a navigable state.

As well as restoring the canal, we also want to return the River Derwent to a navigable river to allow boats to come into the heart of Derby. Access to the River Derwent from the canal provided by Derby Arm, which we are confident will become a local landmark and a strong source of tourism for Derby.

Volunteer and/or become a member!

We’ve got a busy time ahead of us, and we’re never short of work to do, so please do feel free to volunteer with us, either indoors or outdoors!

You can even become a member of the Trust, and get regular updates about our progress and upcoming events.

Always keep an eye on our Calendar, where we will be posting any and all opportunities for you to get involved.

Any questions, queries, or something not quite working?

Feel free to get in touch with our webmaster at web@derbycanal.org.uk