Engaging with Communications

Follow on social media .....


go back to Walking Tour

Bridgewater Canal Warehouses



The Merchant's, Grocers and Middle Warehouses



Grid references: SJ 831 975; SJ 833 975; SJ 831 974

Map showing the location of these three warehouses on the Bridegwater Canal.

Picture of the Bridgewater Canal Merchant's Warehouse
Bridgewater Canal Merchant›s Warehouse (SJ 831 975)

Merchant’s Warehouse


Completed c1828, this is the earliest surviving warehouse on site. Brick built of 4 storeys, shipping holes with hoisting points. Partly destroyed by fire in 1971, now converted in to office accommodation, but retaining loop holes and catheads on Castle St.










Picture of the Bridgewater Canal Grocers Warehouse
Bridgewater Canal Grocers Warehouse (SJ 833 975)

Grocers Warehouse


c1986 Reconstruction, of warehouse owned by Gilbert & Henshall. between 1811-1836. Later owned by the Manchester Grocers’ Co. Reconstruction includes over shot water wheel. Site originally developed by James Brindley in c1770. Originally in tunnel with 22 feet deep shaft, site of water wheel powered hoist below and to the rear of present structure. Hoist raised boxes of coal to the then street level. This system went out of use when Rochdale canal was cut though in 1805. Note original tunnel roof can be seen from towpath opposite, forming part of later canal arm.








Picture of the Bridgewater Canal Middle Warehouse
Bridgewater Canal Middle Warehouse (SJ 831 974)

Middle Warehouse


Built in 1831 in use up to the 1970’s. was later owned by the Manchester Ship Canal Co for storing maize. Note the elliptical arch above shipping holes. The loading platforms have been converted to balconies. Now used as apartments and by local radio station.

go back to Walking Tour