Portland Basi n
 Portland Basin, situated within the Tame Valley, is the junction of three canals, the Huddersfield Narrow, the Manchester and Ashton, and the Peak Forest.
In 1834 the Ashton Canal Company built a canal warehouse, which has now been renovated and houses the Portland Basin Museum. The centre displays both touring exhibitions and it's own permanent collection, the latter of which revolves around the shaping of Tameside over two hundred years, examining local crafts, industries and people.
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Portland Basin Museum
There is a prominent hands-on approach, the majority of the exhibits relying on visitor participation, such as the 1920's Tameside street scene, complete with skipping ropes and hopscotch markings. There is a giant water wheel still in existence outside the building which was installed between 1839 and 1841, a constant reminder of Portland Basin's historical significance, quite different from the role it plays today. The area is now a central spot for picnicking and walking, enjoying the peace and tranquility, at one with nature. Portland Basin is also an outdoor venue for events in Tameside, the most notable being the annual canal festival which is held each July.
Heritage Centre opening times- Thursday to Sunday and Bank Holidays throughout the year, 10.00am-5.00pm (closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day, admission free.
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Canal Festival
The Tameside Canals Festival is a traditional weekend event, staged at Portland Basin each July.
There are a whole host of activities and entertai nments, including a beautifully decorated barge display, with exhibitors having travelled great distances.
A large craft tent allows local people to display their talents, from jam making to patchwork quilting. Fairground stalls are present, the large CAMRA beer tent is always at hand to keep thirst at bay. There are also displays of dancing, folk music etc.
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by Ridgefield-Pennine Ltd.
