Tuel Lane Lock
📍 Sowerby Bridge HX6 2LA, UK
About Tuel Lane Lock
Tuel Lane Lock in Sowerby Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering and a popular spot for canal enthusiasts and walkers alike. Known as the deepest lock in the UK, it features a significant 6-metre fall, replacing two older locks when it was constructed in 1996. Located along the picturesque Rochdale Canal, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate workings of the waterway system.
Visitors consistently rate Tuel Lane Lock highly, giving it an excellent 4.5/5 stars based on numerous reviews. Many praise the rewarding experience, especially for those navigating the canal, often assisted by friendly and professional volunteers from the River and Canal Trust who provide valuable guidance through the challenging descent and the unique tight turn into the adjacent tunnel. The area around the lock also provides a beautiful setting for leisurely walks along the canal towpath, making it an interesting place to stop and explore.
Visiting Information
Tuel Lane Lock is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It is closed on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The attraction accepts various payment methods.
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📍 Sowerby Bridge HX6 2LA, UK
from 23 reviews
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Showing 5 of 23 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 9 February 2026.
Tuel Lane Lock is UK’s deepest lock with a fall of 6 metre. Beautiful place to walk around next to canal. It was built in 1996 to replaced lock 3 & 4. There were 2 people of River and Canal Trust who helped me for directions as there were some construction going on.
A daunting but very worthwhile experience and with the very professional help from the 2 CRT volunteers who had us through in no time at all. When leaving the lock you directly enter a short tunnel with a very sharp right turn that if you forget you will end up pinned to the wall.
It's interesting being the deepest lock in the UK it's obvious as it has a 6m drop you can't approach close by nothing much else to it other than it's just interesting.
Fabulous,caring staff. Cannot fault the care Lennon has received from Cheryl. Excellent communication and knowledge. Very easy to talk to and listened to all concerns. We had to ring for appointments with short notice and were always accommodated. Recommend 100 percent.
Such a fabulous experience in lock 3 this morning. The guys were on top form. What an ending to a beautiful holiday.