Waterways Explorer: Greater Manchester: Ashton Donkey Stones and Bowlders Canal Heritage Trail

This walk takes you along the Ashton Canal between Droylsden and Ashton-under-Lyne, returning by tram, if you prefer not to walk back along the towpath. The area has a fascinating history, but much of it is almost invisible – unless you know where to look. On this trail, you’ll learn some of the stories behind the stones, bricks and concrete you might walk past and never give a second thought. From footpaths mysteriously raised several feet into the air to a place where stones were manufactured for cleaning houses, we hope our trail will make you appreciate the unique history of Ashton.

You can access the Ashton Canal towpath without steps, at Jamaica Bridge, near Droylsden Marina, You can do this via footpaths, from either the Fairfield Road side to the south, or High Bank Road or Buckley Street, to the north.