Virtual Journey along the Rochdale Canal - Rochdale to Manchester (1)

Rochdale Branch, Rochdale Canal
The Rochdale Branch originally ran northwards for around half a mile towards the town centre from a junction immediately below Lock 50 and Oldham Road Bridge. The branch is now infilled beyond this short arm, although the first bridge is still intact. This is the view from the junction, with Oldham Road Bridge off the picture to the right.
Rochdale Branch, Rochdale Canal
Looking back to the main line from the present end of the Rochdale Branch.
Oldham Road Bridge, Rochdale Canal
The towpath changes sides by means of this fine changeline bridge adjoining Oldham Road Bridge.
Well-i'th-Lane Bridge, Rochdale Canal
Looking from Oldham Road Bridge towards Well-i'th-Lane Bridge. The former Rochdale Branch runs off to the right of the picture.
Rochdale Canal
Looking back to Well-i'th-Lane Bridge.
Rochdale Canal
The canal passes through a new concrete channel near the Sealocrete works. Before restoration the canal had been reduced to a narrow un-navigable channel here.
Dicken Green Bridge, Rochdale Canal
Dicken Green Bridge. This has been re-built as the canal had been culverted at this point.
Hartley Lane Bridge, Rochdale Canal
Hartley Lane Bridge. The canal had also been culverted here.
Edinburgh Way, Rochdale Canal
Approaching Edinburgh Way Bridge. The A627M was built partly over the line of the canal so it was necessary to divert along a new line for the next quarter of a mile. The culvert to the left indicates the original canal line. See photos of construction work.
Edinburgh Way, Rochdale Canal
Looking back from just before Edinburgh Way towards Hartley land and Dicken Green Bridges, with the Pennine Hills in the distance.
Edinburgh Way, Rochdale Canal
Entering Edinburgh Way Bridge, or more of a tunnel, as the canal passes under the busy road junction. There is no towpath along the new section of canal, so walkers and cyclists need to make a short detour by road. See map of detour.