The basics It is a 4.1/2 mile (7 km) walk, partly along the Chesterfield Canal, the first canal built in Nottinghamshire, opened in 1772. Most of this eastern end from Norwood Tunnel is still open, with some delightful stretches for boaters, walkers and anglers. It’s easy walking with a delightful saunter along the canal towpath on the way back. Two pubs are available nearby, The Hop Pole at the start and The Gate at half-way. Both are well recommended and are open every day for food and drink.
How to get there The walk starts from the A620 Gainsborough Road at Welham, just east of Retford. Turn right at the Hop Pole Inn into an unused section of roadway, with ample parking space. It is not easy to find your way through Retford to the A620 – we suggest a SatNav to DN22 6UG, the postcode for the Hop Pole, or Map Ref SK719 818.