Our heritage signage for Foxton Locks—a nationally important canal site in Leicestershire—focused on creating sensitive, handcrafted interpretation and wayfinding that enriches the visitor experience while complementing the site’s unique historic and natural character.
Foxton Locks, nestled in the heart of Leicestershire, is a remarkable piece of Britain’s waterways heritage. Home to the longest and steepest staircase of locks in the UK. The site also features the historic Foxton Inclined Plane Boat Lift and a popular on-site museum. It’s a place where engineering history meets scenic beauty—a destination that attracts both curious visitors and dedicated history buffs alike.
Back in 2007, we were invited to help bring the stories of this unique site to life. The brief was clear: to design and install a thoughtful and engaging set of interpretive signs that would enhance the visitor experience without distracting from the site’s charm and heritage value.
We needed to strike a balance—creating signage that was informative and accessible, while blending naturally into this much-loved historic landscape. Durability, sensitivity to the surroundings, and a timeless look and feel were key priorities.
Working in partnership with heritage interpretation and design consultancy Imagemakers, we took a traditional, handcrafted approach to ensure every element felt completely in tune with the historic setting. Our focus throughout was on authenticity, sustainability, and craftsmanship.
Delivered gradually over two years, the phased approach allowed for close collaboration with the site team, ongoing feedback, and thoughtful refinement—ensuring the final result reflected both the character of the place and the needs of its visitors.
From production to installation, great care was taken to protect the site’s historic fabric. Fixings were designed to be as discreet as possible, with many signs mounted in ways that avoided any impact on the original stonework.
The interpretive strategy was carefully tailored to the site and included:
The signage has delivered lasting impact, actively engaging visitors through:
Clearer wayfinding and compelling storytelling across the site
Stronger visitor engagement and improved educational value
Seamless integration of new features into a historic landscape
A powerful example of how interpretation can honour and enhance heritage
This project shows how well-crafted signage can positively shape the visitor experience while contributing meaningfully to heritage conservation.
If you’re planning a distinctive heritage signage project, we’d love to collaborate. Get in touch and let’s bring your vision to life.
Do you have a unique signage project we can help with? From the initial concept to the final installation, our focus is always on delivering quality, choice, expertise, and exceptional customer care.
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