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Canal Boat Hire in Chester
Useful information for your boating holiday, the historic city of chester.
Boating through rural Cheshire
Chester represents our most restful out and back cruise. A mere ten hours boating out from Middlewich, it requires just three or four hours a day through pleasant Cheshire countryside on the move for a week's holiday; though you will probably want to boat for a bit longer each day so as to allow yourselves plenty of time for exploring this most beautiful of cities when you get there. At the outset you head westwards along the Shropshire Union Canal to Barbridge Junction where you pursue your leisurely course along the quiet waters of the old broadbeam Chester Canal.
The locks on this section are wide enough to cope with two narrow boats, side by side, and if another boat is travelling in your direction, it both saves water and helps with the workload to share the locks. Suddenly you get your first glimpse of Beeston Castle soaring above the Cheshire Plain on its high sandstone crag. King John is said to have buried treasure here which has never been found - or perhaps the person who found it just didn't tell the rest of the world! It's open to the public under the aegis of English Heritage, so you can go and do a little treasure hunting for yourself. There are other pleasant ports of call on this stretch of canal; the lockside cottage at Beeston Stone Lock where freshly baked home-produce is often obtainable; the little glory hole of a craft shop at Castle Wharf; the neighbouring country auction ring; and the Shady Oak, a convivial canalside pub just made for thirsty and hungry boaters.
Exploring Chester is easy on a boating holiday!
Getting into Chester these days by car is a bit of a headache, but the only ache you experience in arriving here by canal is from operating the quintet of locks which, at intervals, drop you down into the heart of the city, where you can moor within earshot of the cathedral without a traffic warden in sight. Make no mistake, Chester is one of the great treasure houses of Europe, and quite the best way to effect an introduction to it is to perambulate its ancient walls.
Familiarity gained by this, gravitate toward the centre, explore the famous galleried Rows, and then go and wallow in the hushed peace of the cathedral. Then you can decide where to eat, a choice not made any easier by a proliferation of enchanting looking restaurants, cafes and pubs.
4 night short break average cruising time per day: Chester 6.5 hours
This guide covers the following routes:
City of Chester
Ellesmere Port & The National Waterways Museum
Town of Nantwich
The Llangollen Canal
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Welcome to Chester, a charming destination that can be explored by canal. The journey takes you on a peaceful and picturesque journey along the Shropshire Union Canal from Barbridge.
Introduction
Discover the hidden gems along the way. Immerse yourself in breathtaking countryside views from idyllic mooring spots and indulge in the delights of the waterways. Chester is a true gem for boating enthusiasts and a fabulous destination to explore.
As you traverse the Middlewich Arm, be sure to make a stop at the renowned Badger Inn in Church Minshull. Located just a short walk from Bridge 11, this popular restaurant and pub offers delectable cuisine amidst beautiful countryside surroundings. Advance reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.
Continuing your journey, pass through the three locks after Wardle lock and you’ll encounter two marinas with small tearooms. Take a moment to enjoy a refreshing coffee and a slice of cake at Aqueduct Marina and Venetian Marina. Along the towpath side near Venetian Marina, you’ll find a lovely picnic area, providing a peaceful mooring spot for relaxation.
Arriving at Barbridge Junction, make a right turn and should you wish to visit the Barbridge Inn, a favorite stop for customers on short breaks. Indulge in tasty food and unwind in the beer garden, while the kids have fun in a designated play area. If you’re up for further adventures, continue on to the Hurleston Locks to enter the Llangollen Canal or head towards the vibrant city of Chester by turning right at the Barbridge Junction.
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Chester by canal, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family. Book your boating adventure today and embark on an amazing holiday aboard our boats. Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the wonders of the waterways with Canal Boat Holidays.
Chester, a historic city nestled in the heart of Cheshire, England, offers a captivating blend of ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. As you wander through its cobbled streets, you’re taken on a journey back in time, surrounded by the city’s medieval walls that tell tales of centuries past. These walls, the most complete in Britain, provide a scenic walk around the city, offering glimpses of its rich history and stunning views of the surrounding area.
At the heart of Chester’s allure is the Rows – unique two-tiered medieval galleries that now house a variety of shops, cafes, and boutiques. This architectural wonder, dating back to the 13th century, offers a shopping experience like no other, blending the charm of yesteryear with the sophistication of modern retail. The Rows are a perfect example of Chester’s ability to marry its historical heritage with contemporary culture, making it a fascinating place to explore.
No visit to Chester would be complete without exploring its majestic Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with a history stretching back over a thousand years. The cathedral not only stands as a beacon of spiritual significance but also showcases incredible Gothic architecture. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, climb the tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, or simply bask in the tranquility of its beautiful gardens.
Chester is also famed for its Roman heritage, with the Roman Amphitheatre being a highlight. It is the largest amphitheatre in Britain, offering a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. Nearby, the Grosvenor Museum delves deeper into Chester’s Roman history, alongside other local and natural history exhibits, providing a comprehensive insight into the area’s evolution over millennia.
For those seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Chester serves as an enchanting escape. The city is not only steeped in history but is also alive with vibrant markets, festivals, and events throughout the year, offering something for every visitor. Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, enjoying a leisurely cruise on the River Dee, or simply soaking up the atmosphere in one of its many quaint pubs and restaurants, Chester promises an unforgettable experience that combines the best of the past and present.
Barbridge to Chester
Shropshire Union Canal
This route below picks up from where our “Barbridge” route ends and continues to Chester.
This is a trip of 30 miles, 6 furlongs and 22 locks from Barbridge Junction to Chester and back.
This will take 14 hours and 47 minutes which is 2 days, 47 minutes at 7 hours per day.
Detailed Route:
Arrange your own boating adventure.
If you have any quesitons then get in touch with us. Or if your are ready to dive into your very own boating story and make new memories with friends and family then why delay! Book today...
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Which route to do you have a question about? Which route to do you have a question about? Barbridge Anderton Boat Lift Chester Nantwich Kidsgrove Llangollen Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Four Counties Ring Cheshire Ring Manchester City Centre Not Sure Which Route
For how many people? For how many people? 1 person 2 people 3 to 4 people 5 to 6 people 7 to 8 people 10 people more than 10 people
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Sorry, our largest boat takes a maximum of 10 people. We could help you hire more than 1 boat to fit your group
Sorry, the minimum crew for a boat hire is 2 people.
We are expecting our day boat to be available from May 2024.
Holiday hires close at this time, however we maybe able to organise a longer hire over winter of 4 weeks or more.
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Chester Canal Boat Hire - Visit Chester by Boat
Historic Chester
The City of Chester combines its Roman heritage with exciting restaurants, shops and cafes like no other place. Where else can you find a thriving city centre with both high street and independent shops and a Roman amphitheatre within only a few minutes walking distance from each other? Sprawling Grosvenor Park provides a peaceful haven after exploring the ancient city walls, impressive Cathedral and the brand new Chester Market with its quaint shops and food outlets. “The Rows” are another highlight.
Why Chester is the perfect place to visit by canal boat.
The pedestrianised streets and world famous city walls make Chester the perfect place to explore when you arrive by canal boat. Some cities can be difficult to navigate on foot with Chester being the exception from the norm. It is just the right size to offer everything you would expect from a bustling city - restaurants, cafes, shops and sights - but all within walking distance from your holiday boat. The canal cuts straight through the heart of the city. Telford Basin is the perfect place to moor up and access the ancient city walls within a couple of minutes. From here, you can take a walk around the whole of the city centre - without any traffic interruptions but great views all around.
Things to do in Chester itself
There are too many attractions in chester itself for us to list them all, and the ones you choose will likely to different for each hire boat party, but we’ve listed some of our favourites below..
Take a stroll along the ancient city walls of Chester. Take in the views and visit the famous clock.
Impressive Cathedral well worth a visit. Free entry (donations welcome). You can also take a paid tour and climb high on the Tower Tour and see Chester from a different perspective.
If you can't get enough of our waterways you can head down to the river dee near Queens Park Bridge. Buy an ice cream, take a stroll, visit a river-side pub such as "the boathouse" or hire a Paddle boat for a trip on the river.
Green flag award winning park dating back to 1867 covering 20 acres, located just outside the city walls and overlooking the River Dee. Home to the popular miniature railway and a great play area
Map of the Canals in and around Chester
A map of the canal in and around chester, our routes into chester.
Beeston to Chester and return
Locks 9, Miles 11, Crusing Time 11 hours* (each way)
From the hire base in Beeston, the first lock is only a mile away. Beeston Castle is easily reached via the footpath that leads away from the lock. This impressive ruin can be seen from miles away and shouldn’t be missed on your trip to Chester. The journey continues lock-free through rich pastures and peaceful countryside until it reaches Chester. Here, the canal quickly descends through 4 locks into the city centre, through an impressive rock cutting, and eventually reaches the Northgate staircase locks and Telford Basin beyond. This is a great place to moor up. Highlights, which are easily reached on foot, are the Chester city walls, the Roman amphitheatre, and the tranquil River Dee. Now it’s time to retrace the journey back to the hire base.
Middlewich Branch to Chester and return
Locks 15, Miles 17, Crusing Time 9 hours* (each way)
From the hire base on the Middlewich Branch, it’s only one lock and a few miles to Barbridge Junction, where you turn right and cruise towards Chester. Soon, the surroundings become very tranquil and feel surprisingly remote. After the Beeston iron lock, Beeston Castle is easily reached via the footpath that leads away from the lock. This impressive ruin can be seen from miles away and shouldn’t be missed on your trip to Chester. The journey continues lock-free through rich pastures and peaceful countryside until it reaches Chester. Here, the canal quickly descends through 4 locks into the city centre, through an impressive rock cutting, and eventually reaches the Northgate staircase locks and Telford Basin beyond. This is a great place to moor up. Highlights, which are easily reached on foot, are the Chester city walls, the Roman amphitheatre, and the tranquil River Dee. Now it’s time to retrace the journey back to the hire base on the Middlewich Branch.
Highlights on route
Canal infrastructure highlights on route to chester.
Chester Northgate Staircase Locks
Beeston Iron Lock
Bunbury Staircase Locks
Deep Canal Cuttings
Attractions to stop at on route to Chester
Attractions to visit on land within walking distance of the canal.
Visit the famous Cheshire Fortress, learn about medieval life and enjoy breathtaking views.
The perfect family outing, let the kids go wild in the playground and soft play, search for treasure in Gemstone Cove and sample the delicious ice cream. Read about our own trip to the ice cream farm here
Restored as a working museum. Experience the whole journey from the grain arriving at the mill and the water driving the machinery to the flour pouring into the sacks.
Adventure trail, slides, rope swings, climbs, chain bridge, and more. One for the kids if you are on a family holiday . Best access by boat from bridge 118.
Route Continuation Options
Once you've reached chester itself, you can moor up and use it as a base for your exploration of Chester, if however you wish to continue your journey you can head towards the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port. Our recommended mooring would be just before "pretty bridge" from here you can access Chester Zoo & Chester Zoo's nature reserve (which is free to enter and has a bird hide) should you wish to visit the waterways museum you can continue your journey or if you wish to skip this last "less scenic" chunk of the journey you can take the number 1 or X1 bus from Chester Zoo.
Canal side pubs and cafes on route to and in Chester
There are too many pubs and cafes in chester itself to list them all, however below are some canal side options for your consideration..
Fantastic little cafe, visible from the Canal and offering specialty coffee and tea and homemade cakes! Dog friendly. Breakfast, brunch and lunch menus on offer as well as (pre-book only) afternoon teas. Click here to learn more.
A dog friendly country pub & restaurant, located right by the Shropshire Union Canal:
If you head down the staircase locks you'll likely moor up in the Canal Basin, stop by this independently run freehouse / bar / restaurant which is well know as a music and arts venue.
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Discover two thousand years of history in the ancient city of Chester
Chester is a seven-hour, nine-lock journey from our narrowboat hire base at Bunbury . Chester can also be reached on a week’s cruise from our narrowboat hire base at Whixall .
Historic Chester , famous for its Roman foundations, medieval architecture and imposing city walls , is a popular narrowboat holiday destination. It makes an ideal stop off on a canal boat holiday starting from Bunbury , Trevor . or Whixall . With its unique collection of Tudor timber framed buildings , vibrant market hall, award winning Chester Zoo , busy racecourse , trendy bars, great shops and huge variety of restaurants, a Chester city break will not disappoint. Chester’s narrowboat moorings are conveniently located in the heart of the historic city a short stroll from its key attractions.
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Making life better by water
The Shropshire Union Canal and the River Dee both flow through the centre of the historic walled city of Chester. And it's at Chester Basin where they meet.
The medieval streets, magnificent cathedral and dramatic Roman amphitheatre are all memorable sights. The surrounding countryside is also stunning and ideal for exploring by bike.
Just one a month, volunteers come together to care for a stretch of canal through Chester
Things to do and see
- Sightseeing - there are several walking routes around the city, details available from the tourist information centre
Places to eat:
- Telfords Warehouse
Boat trips:
- Mill Hotel Cruises
- Chester Boats
Picnic spot:
Several picnic benches in Chester Basin
Wildlife spotting:
The canalside is a lovely spot to sit and feed the ducks , swans, coots and moorhens
By car - there is plenty of parking in the city centre
By rail - Chester Station is a 5 minute walk to the nearest towpath on the Shropshire Union Canal. Then a further 10 minute stroll along the towpth to the basin
Nine regions to choose from - over 120 fantastic places to visit
Local Events
Crafts on the canal.
Be crafty! Come and have a go at rope-making and miniature bookbinding.
50 Years Restoration Celebration - Marple Locks Heritage Open Day
Come celebrate Marple's rich heritage and immerse yourself in a range of free activities!
Craft & Chatter
Make some new friends or meet up with old ones.
Heritage Open Days at Standedge Tunnel, Boat Trips
Explore the Standedge Tunnel on a free 30-minute boat trip! Discover history on a unique journey into this iconic landmark.
More information about what you can enjoy at this location
Planning your visit
Canal Basin, Tower Wharf, Chester, CH1 4EZ
Towpath is open everyday
Once you're parked up, it won't cost you a thing
There are toilets in the city centre
Locks in Chester
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Canal Boat Hire in Cheshire
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TATTENHALL MARINA DAY BOAT HIRE
Discover the delights of cruising the canal in your own boat for the day.
If you are looking for a day out with a difference, taking one of our day boats out for a cruise along the Shropshire Union is the perfect way to enjoy quality time with your family and friends and create memories that you will talk about for years to come.
Hiring a narrowboat for the day enables you to experience the joys of cruising one of England's finest waterways. Our 3 boats are custom built for day cruising and are available to book throughout spring and summer.
Each boat features a large open air seating area where your crew can relax and take in the stunning canalside scenery. Come rain or shine you can still enjoy your day as there is plenty of comfy inside seating with large windows and a table, sink and a WC.
Our boats have a capacity for a maximum of 10 people and are pet friendly, so why not share the experience with your four-legged friend?
Our hire season is from March to October however, if you wish to hire a boat during the winter season, please call us on 01829 771742 and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Explore the canal
You can choose from two cruising routes on leaving the Marina, either heading North towards Chester or South towards Nantwich. Both routes are a comfortable 1.5 hour cruise each way giving you the perfect amount of time to find a canalside pub for lunch and meander back to the marina.
Please note that the hire boats cannot be taken through locks.
Cheshire cat route
This is a trip of 9 miles and 4 furlongs.
Departing from Tattenhall Marina and cruising to The Cheshire Cat and back takes approximately 3 hours.
From Tattenhall Marina travel northwest on the Shropshire Union Canal (Chester Canal - Bunbury to Chester) for 4 miles to The Cheshire Cat Pub , on return, travel southeast on the Shropshire Union Canal (Chester Canal - Bunbury to Chester) for 4 miles, back to Tattenhall Marina.
Beeston Castle route
Departing from Tattenhall Marina you cruise towards Nantwich towards Beeston Castle. This is a 4 mile trip with 5 furlongs which takes approximately 1 hour and a half .
From the marina you travel east on the Shropshire Union Canal (Chester Canal - Bunbury to Chester) for 2 miles, 2 furlongs to The Shady Oak then travel west on the Shropshire Union Canal (Chester Canal - Bunbury to Chester) for 2 miles, 2 furlongs back to Tattenhall Marina.
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Chester Canal: A Journey Through Time and Beauty
Chester Canal
Sailing through the serene waters of the Chester Canal is an experience that leaves one with a sense of tranquillity and fascination.
All a little bit confusing if you are not a local which canal is which?
The Shropshire Union network of canals largely ceased operations in 1944. Despite this, the sections that were initially part of the Chester Canal , the Ellesmere Canal's northern portion, the Birmingham and Liverpool Junction Canal , and the Middlewich Branch remained operational, maintaining their profitability.
This article aims to provide you with an explorative guide to the Chester Canal's offerings in 2024, highlighting its unique features, memorable attractions, and available services like boat hire and canal-side dining .
by Nigel Clarkson 16th Jan 2024
On this page:
Setting the scene
Chester Canal Boat Hire
Key Attractions
Canal Route
Chester Canal Restaurants
Dog Walking
Sandstone Trail
Chester Canal Walk
To Ellesmere Port
Setting the Scene: Chester Canal
The Chester Canal , a tranquil waterway flowing through the heart of the historic city of Chester , has much to offer its visitors.
With a rich history dating back to the Roman and Medieval times, it serves as a testament to Chester's thriving port activity on the River Dee .
Location and Accessibility
Nestled within the Chester city centre, the canal is easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. The city itself offers ample parking, and the Chester Train Station is conveniently located within a short walking distance to the canal's nearest towpath.
From there, a leisurely 10-minute stroll along the towpath leads you to the canal basin, where the Shropshire Union Canal and the River Dee meet.
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the canal's charm, Chester Canal boat hire services provide an ideal solution. Whether you're seeking a peaceful day trip or a longer excursion, a variety of boat hire options cater to different needs and preferences.
Andersen Boats
Offering a unique and restful cruise experience, Andersen Boats allows you to navigate the quiet waters of the Chester Canal at your leisure. These trips provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the city's beautiful surroundings, with the option of mooring within earshot of the cathedral , free from the hustle and bustle of the city traffic.
Exploring the C anal: Key Attractions
As you journey along the Chester Canal (Shropshire Union), you'll encounter a variety of sights that stir a sense of awe and curiosity.
Beeston Castle
One of the first landmarks you'll spot is the majestic Beeston Castle . Perched atop a high sandstone crag, the castle offers panoramic views of the Cheshire Plain . Considered a treasure trove of history, it's certainly worth a visit.
Christleton
Further down the canal, you'll reach Christleton , a village boasting a Grade II listed mill building. Once steam-powered, this structure has a unique architectural design, with bays in the right gable from which boats were loaded.
The Canal Route: Chester to Nantwich
The Chester Canal (Shropshire Union Canal) route, stretching approximately 20 miles from Chester to Nantwich , is a sight to behold. As you traverse the canal, you'll pass through picturesque villages, encounter historic mills, and enjoy views of the Cheshire countryside.
Bunbury Staircase Locks
A notable highlight along the route is the Bunbury Staircase Locks , an impressive feat of engineering. Here, you'll also find Hurleston Reservoir , a serene body of water that adds to the area's natural beauty. This reservoir tops up the Shropshire Union Canal. It's a favourite with fishermen as the fish are plenty!
When it comes to canal-side dining, Chester Canal offers an array of options.
The Cheshire Cat
Photo from: https://www.vintageinn.co.uk
Located in Christleton, The Cheshire Cat bar is a dog-friendly inn that dates back to 1801. Offering high-quality food in a cosy, canal-side setting, it's an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploration. If you intend to take an overnight stay, pets are not allowed in the accommodation.
The Waterside Cafe
Situated at the Nantwich Canal Center, T he Waterside Cafe offers a splendid view of the canal. Enjoy a leisurely lunch while watching the boats glide by, or browse through the centre's facilities, which include a lovely canal basin, wooden sculptures, a cafe, toilets, and a shop.
Dog Walking Along the Canal
For dog owners, the Chester Canal towpath provides an excellent walking route. With the Waterside Cafe welcoming four-legged patrons, it's a perfect day out for you and your furry friend.
The Canal's Surrounding Countryside
The Chester Canal is not only about the waterway itself but also the stunning countryside that surrounds it.
For those seeking a change of pace, a short detour from the canal leads to the Sandstone Trail. Here, you can explore Beeston Castle 's 13th-century ruins and enjoy breathtaking views over the Cheshire Plain.
The Chester Canal Walk
For those who prefer to explore on foot, the Chester Canal Walk offers a memorable experience. This route guides you along the canal's path, allowing you to fully appreciate its beauty and tranquillity.
Ordinance Map and Open Street Map
To aid your journey, both the Ordinance Survey Map and the Open Street Map provide detailed visuals of the canal walk, available for viewing and printing. Mobile GPS maps with location tracking are also available for easy navigation.
The Canal's Terminus: Ellesmere Port
The Chester Canal extends beyond Chester, leading to Ellesmere Port on the banks of the mighty Mersey. Home to The National Waterways Museum , this is an ideal destination for those interested in preserved canal craft.
Nantwich: The Final Stop
The canal route concludes at the market town of Nantwich . Here, you'll find the Nantwich Aqueduct, a pretty marina, and Dorfold Hall—a Grade I-listed mansion built in 1616.
In conclusion, the Chester Canal offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from leisurely boat rides to historical landmarks, scenic walks, and canal-side dining. Its serene waters and picturesque surroundings invite a sense of peace and awe, making it a must-visit destination in 2024.
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Canal Holidays Guide to the Cheshire Ring
Please be aware that from 24th June 2022 onwards, passage through the Bosley Locks (Macclesfield Canal) and the Marple Locks (Peak Forest Canal) will be closed. The stoppage means that it will not be possible to complete the Cheshire Ring until further notice.
Travelling through five counties, the Cheshire Ring contrasts the highest waterways in England on the Macclesfield and Peak Forest canals with the cityscape of Manchester and its historic canal engineering.
Cruising the Ring
From our bases in the Northwich area pass the Anderton BoatLift, cruise along the hillside above the River Weaver and onto the Bridgewater canal. The first British canal, it is wide, deep and lock-free for the run to Manchester.
A mooring at Castlefields will allow you to explore the city, its shops, museums and art galleries.
The following canalside environment under and through inner-city Manchester is not to everyone's taste, and is often tackled early in the day.
Leave Manchester behind, climbing the Ashton canal to its highest point at Marple with its picturesque flight of locks and character cottages. Join the Macclesfield Canal for a scenic 26 mile lock-free section skirting the edge of the Peak District through small stone built towns.
The 12 Bosley locks then lower the canal 118 feet to the Cheshire Plains.
In the distance can be seen the half-timbered Little Moreton Hall before the canal joins the Trent and Mersey Canal at Kidsgrove. Travel down the locks of 'Heartbreak Hill' to reach Middlewich and its old salt mines.
Please note that we have been advised that there is damage to the Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union Canal, so it is not possible to access the Four Counties Ring from the North West, or access the Llangollen Canal at present.
Distance, Time, and Locks
- Usually covered in a week, the Ring includes some energetic sections.
- Out-and-back trips and short breaks are available from all bases.
- Relaxed routes for new canal boaters
- A licence (about £40) is required for a section through central Manchester.
Places of Interest
Anderton Lift: built 1875 to lower boats between the canal and the river below
Manchester: shops, industrial heritage, arts, music, media, Museum of Science and Industry, Old Trafford, Granada Studios
Marple: scenic lock flight and high aqueduct over the River Goyt Macclesfield Silk Museum
Little Moreton Hall: 15th century timber framed and moated manor house
Middlewich: Lion Salt Works
Possible Holidays
The Cheshire Ring makes a realistic one week holiday, although strenuous at times. Alternatively, an out-and-back holiday can be taken from any of the bases. Options include a return trip to historic Chester, or a leisurely trip to Wigan Pier.