<< back	Cromford Canal	Grid Ref SK 31555670
List of Species Common Name  Azure Damselfly  Banded Demoiselle  Blue-tailed Damselfly  Broad-bodied Chaser  Brown Hawker  Common Blue Damselfly  Common Darter  Common Hawker  Emerald Damselfly  Emperor Dragonfly  Four-spotted Chaser  Large Red Damselfly  Migrant Hawker  Ruddy Darter  Southern Hawker	Owner: Derbyshire County Council Habitat: The Canal runs, in part, parallel to the A6 and the Derby - Matlock railway line, it is easily accessible by both road and rail. The construction of the Cromford Canal by William Jessop and Benjamin Outram, partners in the Butterley company, was completed in 1794. It is 14.5 miles long and joined Cromford with the Erewash Canal at Langley Mill. The site has a wealth of industrial heritage and has been designated a World Heritage site. A five and a half mile tow path links Cromford and Ambergate, and the walk from Cromford Wharf to High Peak Junction is suitable for pushchairs and wheel chairs. The site has 15 Odonata species throughout the season. There are no Odonata rarities but the SSSI status provides a varied flora and fauna. The towpath can be busy at weekends so, for the peace and quiet we may crave, go during the week or early in the day. The Canal offers easy opportunities to see Water Vole, Dabchick and the occasional Grass Snake. Because it is a linear water source it is very easy to get excellent views of many kinds of water life. Access: Parking at Cromford Wharf, high Peak Junction and Whatstandwell. The Towpath is a Public Footpath. Specialities: SSSI Grub Stop: Inormation Centre at High Peak Junction sells drinks, sandwiches, tea, coffee and sweets.