NB Serenity

Beeston to Kegworth

2011-08-21T12:44:00.001-07:00

We had an excellent meal at the Victoria Hotel in Beeston last night, only a short walk from the canal moorings. Set off this morning with blue skies and sunshine, making the final stretch on the Trent very enjoyable. From Trent lock it got quite busy and we were queuing for some time at Ratcliffe and Kegworth Deep lock. Finished a fantastic week off by having a final meal with Paul and Jo at the Otter.

Leaving Beeston lock, passing Beeston Marina

Approaching Cranfleet lock

Turning at Trent lock on to the River Soar

Passing by Redhill Marina

Frogs in the lock chamber at Ratcliffle lock

Approaching Kegworth

Waiting at Kegworth Deep lock

The disused chamber adjacent to Kegworth Deep Lock

Total Locks: 22 locks

Total mileage: Approx 70 miles

Stoke Bardolph to Beeston

2011-08-20T08:31:00.001-07:00

We said our goodbyes before setting off this morning. As we approached Nottingham we saw more and more police, Nottingham Forest were playing at home against Leicester. The singing got louder as we neared Castle Lock. A crowd of Leicester fans were outside the pub, it gave us a good laugh as we finally got through the lock. Moored at Beeston tonight where we plan to go out for a meal, along with Paul and Jo’s friends Pete and Anne.

Approaching Holme Lock. The exit for the white water course on the left

Nottingham Forest Football Ground

Waiting for the lock at Meadow Lane

The Waterfront, Nottingham

Castle Lock. The police looking on.

Gunthorpe to Stoke Bardolph

2011-08-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

We were planning to moor at Holme Pierrepont again, but as we left Stoke Lock moorings were available on the floating pontoon, so we took advantage. It is a beautiful part of the Trent and we had planned to meet Ian’s cousin Kate and Anthony who were joining us on their boat for a bbq. Unfortunately Paul and Jo had to go off in search of an emergency vet, Charlie had got caught up in some fishing line and the barbed hook had gone through the skin inside her mouth, luckily she didn’t swallow anything, but she did have to be sedated for them to remove it. They got back in time for the bbq, Charlie doing fine although still a bit wobbly on her legs and feeling rather sorry for herself.

The Unicorn, Gunthorpe

Approaching Stoke Lock

Stoke Lock

Looking back from our moorings

Kate and Anthony’s boat Curlew

Newark to Gunthorpe

2011-08-18T09:11:00.001-07:00

Had a very enjoyable Italian meal Tuesday evening at Il Castello, finishing the night with a last drink in the micro brewery Just Beer. Spent yesterday exploring the historic market town of Newark, lunching at the White Hart. Set off this morning in grey cloud, but still quite pleasant. Luckily we managed to moor at Gunthorpe where we have yet to decide which one out of the three places we are going to eat in this evening.

Leaving our moorings outside the BW offices at Newark

Leaving Newark Town Lock

Ian’s sister and brother in law’s boat, Wine Down in the centre

Cruising towards Gunthorpe hoping to miss the rain

Waiting below the weir for the lock to open

Moored for the night at Gunthorpe

Holme Pierrepont to Newark

2011-08-16T09:37:00.001-07:00

It was very blustery at times today on the Trent, but it did get better as the day progressed and we had a very enjoyable cruise. Moorings were scarce and we ended up cruising to Newark before we found any suitable to get Paul & Jo’s dog Charlie off the boat. She did have to have a toilet stop at Hazleford lock, the only way we could get her off was by her life jacket attached to a rope and Ian and Paul lifting between them. Looking forward to eating out in Newark tonight.

Holme Lock

nb Repent at Leisure

Gunthorpe Bridge, where we were hoping to moor, but already full

Still breezy, but the sun is out

Derelict windmill

Approaching Newark

Newark Town Lock

Newark Castle

Newark’s Famous Floating Pub

Moored for the night

Trent Lock to Holme Pierrepont

2011-08-15T09:50:00.001-07:00

We set off from Kegworth on Friday with a short trip to Loughborough staying overnight at the Soar Boat Club. Met up with Paul and Jo, nb Repent at Leisure, who we will be travelling to Newark with. Moved on to Trent Lock for another overnight and are now moored at Holme Pierrepont. Where we have spent the afternoon walking around the rowing lake and exploring the National Water Centre.

Moored at Trent Lock

Cranfleet Lock

Leaving Cranfleet Lock

The River Trent, heading towards Beeston

Nottingham Castle in the background

Meadow Lane Lock

Fellows Morton & Clayton Canal Museum

Approaching Holme Lock

White Water Course at the National Water Centre, Holme Pierrepont

Out and about on the River Soar

2011-07-30T14:22:00.001-07:00

The weather forecast was good so we couldn’t resist a short trip out. We planned to meet Ally and Marc in Loughborough for a bbq on Tuesday night. Their neighbour Mark was also there and we all had a lovely evening, sitting out until quite late. We left them the following morning, stopping overnight at Mount Sorrell, just above the lock. We had made arrangements to meet up with friends Claire and Alan on Thursday night at the Hope & Anchor, Syston. It was great to catch up as we hadn’t seen each other for ages. The following morning we winded just before Thurmaston lock to head back, planning to meet Ally and Marc again in Loughborough. Friday was another very late night as we all went for a drink in the Albion, where we also met Paul & Jo, nb Repent at Leisure, Gary & Jane, nb Autumn Glory Two and two other couples from the Soar boat club. Had a relaxing morning on Saturday before heading back, cruising with Ally and Marc as far as Zouch. As we headed on the last stretch before Kegworth we also met and chatted to two of our neighbours out on their boats, turned the next bend and then met Beacon no 3, still with no name. We pulled along side and had another long chat. We are now back on our mooring planning a bbq tomorrow with Claire and Jason.

Leaving Kegworth and the Otter behind for a few days

Approaching Mount Sorrell

Looking back at Mount Sorrell lock

Canal side artwork at Thurmaston lock

The River Wreake

The weir at Cossington lock

The weir at Sileby lock. Sileby Mill in the background

Leaving Barrow on Soar

An old mill converted to apartments at Loughborough

The Albion, a real ale pub, Loughborough

Leaving Loughborough with Ally and Marc

Beacon Boat no 3

Shardlow –Trent lock – Kegworth

2011-07-15T11:09:00.001-07:00

Sadly this will be our last blog for awhile, as we arrive back to our moorings at Kegworth. We left Shardlow in bright sunshine, sharing locks with Kath and Rob on nb Spirit of Freedom. We parted company at Trent Lock as they were making their way to Nottingham and we were mooring at Trent Lock to meet our neighbours Mick and Becky on nb Blue Moon. We had a lovely time with lots of catching up to do and stories to exchange, a few bottles of wine later we went to the newly re-furbished and re-named Trent Lock for our evening meal, it is now the same chain as our local the Otter. Luckily we didn’t have to have an early start for the short journey back to Kegworth.

Sunshine on the River Trent

Waiting for Sawley Lock

Flood level at Sawley Lock

Saying goodbye to Kath and Rob, nb Spirit of Freedom

The Trent Lock, which used to be known as the Navigation

Moored at Trent Lock

Mick and Becky, nb Blue Moon

Approaching Ratcliffe Lock

The girls still chatting, whilst the men do the locks

Approaching Kegworth, nearly home until our next trip out

We have had a fantastic four months cruising the Northern waterways, hope our followers enjoyed it with us. Less locks and less miles than last year, but it still feels we have been out as long. Hoping to have a few more short trips out this year.

APPROX MILEAGE: 660 miles

TOTAL LOCKS: 521 locks

Stenson to Shardlow

2011-07-13T09:37:00.001-07:00

Just approaching Swarkestone this morning and came across nb Oakfield at the water point. We follow their blog so knew we would probably pass each other at some point. We also met last year on the Gloucester to Sharpness canal, so we pulled over for a chat. As another boat was heading for the lock, we said our goodbyes to catch up and share the lock. We shared the next three locks with nb Spirit of Freedom, both of us mooring for the night just above Derwent Lock.

18th Century Arleston Farm House, near Swarkestone

Sharing Swarkestone lock

The Stand, a 17th Century Pavilion, thought to be used as a grandstand for bull baiting

Weston Cliffs

14th Century Church, near Weston on Trent

There was just enough room to squeeze past this fallen tree

Countryside approaching Shardlow

Tonight’s moorings

Branston to Stenson

2011-07-12T11:31:00.001-07:00

Set off today under grey clouds and a cool breeze, it did brighten and we did get some sunshine as we cruised along. Passing through Burton on Trent, where there were boats already moored in preparation for the IWA. As we were approaching Willington there were more signs of the boats gathering as we passed more than a dozen and even more filling the moorings at Willington. We have now completed all our single locks and are now on the broad locks, the first being Stenson. We found a lovely secluded mooring for one boat just after the lock.

Branston Lock

Dallow Lane Lock

Road bridge over the River Dove, reputedly built by the monks of Burton Abbey

Opposite view of the River Dove from the same aqueduct

Stenson Lock, always plenty of gongoozlers

Moorings for the night

Fradley – Alrewas – Branston

2011-07-11T10:15:00.001-07:00

Had a really early start this morning, the sun was already shining and we missed the rush through the locks at Fradley. We stopped off at Alrewas to go to the butchers, then on our way again through to Branston.

Approaching Shade House lock at 7.00 am, it was lovely and peaceful

Shade House

Approaching Middle lock

Approaching Junction lock, resisting the temptation to turn right on to the Coventry canal

Tonight’s moorings

Armitage to Fradley

2011-07-10T11:47:00.001-07:00

Mum and Dad had decided to have a short cruise with us to Fradley and collect their car later. As it was the weekend and it had been quite busy we moored above Shade House lock at Fradley rather than run the risk of not getting moorings below. Our friend Dave came to visit in the afternoon and after dinner kindly took mum and dad back for their car.

Armitage Shanks factory dating back to 1817

Approaching Wood End Lock

Wood End Lock

Mum helping out

Wolseley to Armitage

2011-07-09T11:30:00.000-07:00

Change of plan as we waited an extra day at Wolseley, which was no hardship as we had thunderstorms most of the day, so it was nice to stay put. Mum and dad were meeting us for a meal at the Plum Pudding on Saturday. We stopped off in Rugeley to do a shop at Morrisons and arrived at the Plum Pudding for lunchtime, just before mum and dad’s arrival. As usual we were not disappointed with the food and had a lovely evening.

Cruising along side the River Trent

Trent aqueduct approaching Rugeley

Filling with water just before the narrows at Armitage

The narrows, former site of Armitage tunnel

The Plum Pudding

Tixall Wide to Wolseley

2011-07-07T10:23:00.001-07:00

Decisions this morning to either stay at Tixall Wide or move on, hopefully missing the showers. As the forecast wasn’t looking good for the next few days, we decided to go for it. All in all it was a nice sunny day, turning right at Haywood junction back on to the Trent and Mersey. We also passed bloggers nb Piston Broke at Tixall and nb Bendigedig at Gt Haywood. It was the quietest we have seen it around Gt Haywood, although we had to queue for awhile at Colwich lock. We very nearly missed the rain, but got caught in a shower just as we got to where we wanted to moor for the night near Wolseley.

Approaching Haywood Junction, a sharp turn right

Black clouds, then sunshine again. Luckily no rain.

This plant gets bigger every time we pass

Still bordering the Cannock Chase countryside

View from our moorings

Acton Trussell to Tixall Wide

2011-07-06T09:14:00.001-07:00

Awoke this morning about 7.00 to the sound of heavy rain, no point in rushing to get up. After the heavy shower we set off with blue skies. Even though we are on familiar waters we still enjoy cruising this stretch, the hedgerows and fields changing with the seasons. Luckily we stayed dry today, mooring before the next lot of showers. Only a short cruise to another favourite spot of ours on Tixall Wide.

Deptmore Lock, progress being made on the renovation of the lock side cottage

Walton Bridge no 104, Cannock Chase in the background

The aqueduct over the River Sow

Approaching Tixall Lock

Moored at Tixall Wide

Rodbaston Lock – Penkridge – Acton Trussell

2011-07-05T09:22:00.001-07:00

As the forecast was for rain later, we had an early start. Setting off at 7.00 am as we needed to stop for water at Penkridge and walk into the village for shopping. Seven locks later we moored in a nice spot on our own just past Acton Trussell. We just made it in time as the rain came as predicted.

Rodbaston Lock, the first of the day.

Penkridge

Shutt Hill Lock

15 century church at Acton Trussell

Moored between bridges 93 & 94

Afternoon visitors

Brewood to Rodbaston Lock

2011-07-04T11:46:00.001-07:00

It was nice to be cruising again after a lazy weekend. The weather is still sunny, fingers crossed it will last, but forecast is not too good. Turned today off the Shroppie and back on to the Staffs & Worcs. It has still been busy with boats, we were going to water at Gailey, but it was bedlam. The hire base were three abreast and already a queue at the water point. So we decided to head straight for the lock, with a quick dash to the shop for the obligatory ice cream. Mooring just above Rodbaston lock no 35.

Corn fields and sunshine as we leave Brewood

Autherley stop lock

Sharp turn left on to the Staffs & Worcs

Maybe this is the residential heron from last year’s photo

Eventually on our way through Pendeford Rockin, after waiting for five boats to pass, then we still met another going through, luckily not far from a passing point.

Gailey Roundhouse

Exiting Gailey lock, the A5 above

Moorings for the night

Gnosall Heath to Brewood

2011-07-02T02:00:00.001-07:00

A lovely pleasant cruising day through the cuttings on the Shroppie. We set off slightly earlier than usual as we wanted to stop off for diesel and services at Wheaton Aston and hopefully moor early in time to watch the men’s semi-finals at Wimbledon. It was fairly quiet first thing, but as we had just finished watering the lock was in our favour, as we arrived there was a five boat queue above the lock and four boats had suddenly appeared behind us. From there on it got very busy with passing boats, including nb Chance. It was nice to see Doug, James and Oscar as we were approaching Brewood. As it has forecast a good weekend and we are in a lovely spot just outside Brewood, we plan to stay put and get a few jobs done, but also we can get to watch the tennis finals and the Moto GP.

Cowley Tunnel

Former Cadbury milk depot at High Onn

Passing historic boat Regulus, being towed to Ellesmere Port for restoration

Rye Hill Cutting

A popular stop for diesel and always a warm welcome

Ornate bridge no 10 leading to Chillington Hall

Lovely moorings

Lovely views

Goldstone Wharf – Norbury – Gnosall Heath

2011-06-30T10:23:00.001-07:00

Clear skies and sunshine this morning with clear views of the Wrekin, the Clee and Breidden hills, but the clouds soon came rolling in. It did stay dry and has been a very pleasant day. We stopped for lunch at Norbury Junction before carrying on through Grub Street Cutting, mooring for the night at Gnosall Heath.

The Wrekin

Bridge one of three bridges on Grub Street cutting

Bridge two

Bridge three

A former flour mill at Gnossall Heath

Adderley – Market Drayton - Goldstone Wharf

2011-06-29T07:05:00.000-07:00

Set off for Adderley locks, a flight of 5. Stopping off at the top lock no 1 to visit Adderley Wharf farm shop, we were so impressed on our first visit that we could not go by without calling in again to re stock with excellent produce, sausages, bacon, chicken and pork steaks and as always a warm welcome by Simon and Alison. After a long natter we carried on through Betton Wood to Market Drayton, where we stopped for lunch and had a walk into the town as it was market day. Then on through to Tyrley locks, another flight of 5 located in a sandstone cutting, mooring for the night at Goldstone Wharf.

Approaching lock no 5, the first of the Adderley flight

Lock no 4

Can be found at lock no 1

Market Drayton, the half timbered houses mostly date from the aftermath of a fire which swept through the place in 1651

Leaving Market Drayton, passing Betton Mill

Approaching lock no 5, Tyrley locks

Peaceful surroundings on Tyrley locks

Tyrley Wharf, 1837

Bridge no 58, Woodseaves Cutting

Woodseaves Cutting

Moorings for the night at Goldstone Wharf

Coole Pilate – Audlum – Adderley

2011-06-28T12:15:00.001-07:00

Another nice day to spend cruising, even though we had the Audlum flight of 15 locks ahead of us. We waved goodbye to Seventh Heaven as we set off. The flight was very busy from the start, which made it easier as all the locks were in our favour. It also meant we had a four boat queue at the water point, so we decided to moor and go to do some shopping first. Mooring for the night just below Adderley locks.

Seventh Heaven, Beacon Boat no 7

We bought fresh eggs at lock 15

Finally moored at the services beside the Shroppie Fly

Lock 12, the by-washes are really strong, making it harder work going up

Looking up Audlem flight

More local produce available, fresh scones, clotted cream and jam were purchased here

Moorings for the night at Adderley

Church Minshull to Coole Pilate

2011-06-27T11:47:00.001-07:00

We had an early start this morning as the sun was already shining and the forecast was not so good for later in the afternoon. Two locks to do before we got to Barbridge Junction, turning back onto the Shroppie. Another two locks at Hack Green before mooring for lunch, then a short cruise to moor for the night at Coole Pilate Leisure Area. It has been a lovely cruising day, blue skies, sunshine and miles of wonderful countryside. As we were relaxing a man walking his dog mentioned that there was our sister boat moored just a few boats higher, we took a stroll to find Seventh Heaven, (Beacon Boat number 7) still looking good. It was nice to meet up with Pete and Pam again, needless to say we had a long chat and a few drinks.

Minshull Lock

Approaching Barbridge Junction

Canal side artwork at Nantwich

Looking down at the Chester Road from Nantwich aqueduct

Looking for some lunch

Moored for lunch above Hack Green locks

This looked very much like a mole swimming by

Moorings for the night at Coole Pilates Lesisure Area

Middlewich to Church Minshull

2011-06-26T10:27:00.001-07:00

Just a short cruise today, the weather has been sunny all day for a change. Found a nice mooring just after Church Minshull with a good tv signal, so Ian could watch the F1 and Moto Gp and I could relax in the sunshine with a glass of wine.

Dairy House

Top flash, on the River Weaver

Church Minshull, the mill on the right supplied the electricity to the village up to 1960

Moorings for the night

Hassall Green – Wheelock – Middlewich

2011-06-25T02:16:00.001-07:00

Woke up to sunshine this morning, so we set off to finish the last ten locks of heartbreak hill. Unfortunately we have no photos to show as I had a clumsy accident with the camera. As I was in the lock, Ian passed it over to me, for the first time in months, which to that point was okay. Then for some unknown reason it decided to fly out of my hands and fall into the water. I felt really bad as it was a Christmas present.

We moored for lunch at Wheelock and decided to hop on a bus to Sandbach to replace our camera. It was a pity we couldn’t take any pictures as it was a lovely town, with ancient Saxon crosses in the centre. New camera on charge we carried on towards Middlewich.

The hire boats were coming by thick and fast from Middlewich. On a fairly straight stretch, we had the trees on our side, but plenty of room. For some reason, instead of keeping straight, one of the boats lost steering and panicked. As they were still going at a fair speed they ricocheted us into the undergrowth. As we found out on later inspection, the flairs on Middlewich boats are quite high and unforgiving, resulting in a very nasty gash on our gloss work, just below the cratch cover.

The other very noticeable thing as we approached Middlewich. We expected to get the gravy smell coming from the Bisto factory, but as we got closer the huge salt works were still there, but the Bisto factory had been demolished.

After Kings lock, we turned left onto the Middlewich Branch. We got through Stanthorne lock and moored just in time before the rain came.

Moorings for the night. A quick test with the new camera.

Church Lawton to Hassall Green

2011-06-23T09:18:00.001-07:00

We planned to have an early start to miss the rain, but as we woke up to the sound of rain we didn’t bother rushing. Just as we pulled our pins everyone else must have had the same idea as there were two boats waiting at the lock and suddenly another four boats appeared behind. It was no hardship, this is a lovely flight and we didn’t have to queue as most of the locks are duplicated, having got through ten locks today we decided to moor opposite the Romping Donkey which we fondly remembered on our previous visits, sadly it now is up for sale and looking very unloved.

Church locks

Thurlwood locks

The Donkey Romps no more

Kent Green to Church Lawton

2011-06-22T11:39:00.001-07:00

At last, it feels good to be on the move again. It felt like an age moored at Heritage Boats. Service completed okay, they did try to sort out our discharging problem, but to no definite conclusions. We moored for lunch near Poole aqueduct, just missing a heavy shower. It wasn’t long before we were on Heartbreak Hill, a flight of 26 locks. Luckily they are fairly spread out covering seven miles, so we moored after the sixth lock saving the rest for another day. We just managed to moor again before another downpour. The only consolation was it was sunny in between.

Bridge 91, Scholar Green

Approaching the stop lock at Hall Green

The stop lock is all of one foot deep

Looking down at the duplicated locks of Heartbreak Hill on the Trent and Mersey from Poole lock aqueduct on the Macclesfield Canal

Came out of the junction of the Macclesfield. Entering lock 41, the first lock of Heartbreak Hill, going down.

The first thing you notice is the change of water colour, it is bright orange from iron stone leeching in Harecastle Tunnel.

Moored for the night at Church Lawton

Ramsdell Hall to Kent Green

2011-06-20T10:09:00.001-07:00

Only a short way to Heritage Boats, where we are waiting for our engine service. This area holds lots of memories for us as we first hired with Heritage over 20 years ago, catching the boating bug and having many more great holidays on their boats. As we had time to explore we had a walk over the fields to Little Moreton Hall, with glimpses of Jodrell Bank in the distance. Calling in for lunch at the Rising Sun on the way back.

Ramsdell Hall, an 18th century mansion

Little Moreton Hall, a 15th century timber framed moated manor house

Koi carp in the moat

Lovely moorings outside Heritage Boats

Lyme Green – Bosley Locks – Ramsdell Hall

2011-06-18T10:07:00.001-07:00

The sun was shining as we set off for Bosley Locks, passing through two swing bridges to get there. We passed nine boats coming up the flight of twelve and only had to fill three locks by ourselves. The clouds were getting heavier and darker as we neared the bottom, then the rain came, luckily we were near a bridge and waited for the worst to pass. We moored at the bottom of Bosley for lunch, the sun came out again so we decided to carry on. Leaving us only a short cruise tomorrow to Heritage Boats for our engine service.

Swing bridge at Danes Moss

Lock 1 at the top of Bosley Locks

Bosley Locks takes some beating for panoramic views

The Bosley Cloud, the hill in the background. It is 1,026 ft above sea level at it’s summit

Moored for lunch at the bottom of the flight

Aqueduct over the river Dane

Viaduct near Congleton

Dog Lane Aqueduct at Congleton Wharf

Mow Cop, rises above 1,000 ft above the canal and Wilbraham’s Folly which dates from 1754

Moored for the night opposite Ramsdell Hall

Hawk Green to Lyme Green

2011-06-17T10:20:00.001-07:00

Set off today in unexpected sunshine, staying dry all day. Passed through Bollington and Macclesfield, being treated to wonderful countryside views. The mills we saw today have all been preserved and kept in good condition. Moored at Lyme Green ready to tackle Bosley locks tomorrow.

Fine views all round

Clarence Mill at Bollington

The Macc quite narrow in places

The Hovis Mill at Macclesfield

A cutting of high sided stone retaining walls

A typical Macclesfield roving bridge

Bugsworth Basin to Hawk Green

2011-06-16T08:10:00.001-07:00

It was time for us to leave Bugsworth Basin, using the services on our way out. A pleasant morning cruise back along the Peak Forest Canal to Marple. Turning onto the Macclesfield Canal, mooring just after bridge 5 as it began to rain.

Disley swing bridge on the Peak Forest

Turning left at Marple Junction onto the Macclesfield Canal

Passing under bridge 1, Macclesfield Canal Co’s perishable goods warehouse on the right

Goyt Mill, cotton spinning ceased here in the 60’s

Bugsworth Basin

2011-06-14T10:52:00.001-07:00

We had a last minute arranged visit from our daughter Claire and my mum. It was a lovely surprise and was great to see them. The weather was fantastic today, we went to the Navigation Inn for lunch and it was even hot enough to eat outside. Bugsworth is a vast complex of wharves and thanks to the hard work of volunteers now holds Ancient Monument status. The area with its limekilns was handling 600 tons of limestone and lime daily in the 1880’s. It is a lovely place to stay for awhile, to relax and explore.

Marple to Bugsworth Basin

2011-06-13T08:38:00.001-07:00

It was still raining first thing this morning so we waited until it brightened. We were going to spend an extra night at Marple, but there had been some trouble on Friday night. A boat had been broken into and another had a brick through the window, and we thought Marple was a nice place. We didn’t want to push our luck as we seemed to have been lucky so far. We just got through the Wigan flight and it was closed, just got through the Rochdale and it was closed, just got through Ashton and now we hear that is closed. !! We have passed more boats today, than in the last three weeks and there were still plenty moored in the basin. Having found a nice spot we will stay here for a few days.

Lovely views on the Peak Forest Canal

Passing the Matlow/Swizzels factory. Smelt like they were making midget gems

Hopefully we will have blue skies on the way back, still can’t complain we kept dry today

Wandering through Bugsworth Basin choosing our mooring spot

This will do nicely

Moored on the middle basin

Looking down on the lower basin

Portland Basin to Marple

2011-06-13T02:09:00.001-07:00

The decision today was if we woke to rain we would stay where we were, but as we woke to blue skies and sunshine we set off for Marple. We had a 2.5 hour cruise before we reached the flight, in nice weather. Just as we started the flight it started to rain and never stopped, which was a shame as it is one of our favourite flights, luckily it was only light rain so to a point was still enjoyable. It was still nice to get in and get dry after 16 locks. We had a farewell meal with Dave in the Navigation Inn and thanked him for all his hard work.

One of the many roving bridges, typical of this area

Hyde Bank Tunnel, 308 yards

Rose Hill Tunnel, without its roof.

Marple Aqueduct and viaduct over the Goyt Valley

Lock 9, Oldknows Warehouse

Horse Tunnel at lock 13

Manchester to Portland Basin

2011-06-11T09:18:00.001-07:00

Spent a quiet night in Manchester and awoke to blue skies and sunshine, ready to tackle the Ashton flight of 18 locks. However our progress was hindered from the start as workmen were working near lock 2 and had drained the pound. After a little while we managed to get enough water down to get the boat over the cill and get to the next lock. Further on at lock 12 we had our next obstacle as we found a car in the canal next to the lock, luckily we could just squeeze by. Just to finish off the day the heavens opened as we were trying to find moorings between a fishing match.

Piccadilly Village

Start of the Ashton flight

Just enough water to gingerly get by

Manchester Stadium across the road from the lock

Luckily we could just squeeze by

Lock 18, the top of the Ashton flight at Fairfield Junction

Junction Mill, Portland Basin

Portland Basin junction onto the Peak Forest Canal

Crossing the aqueduct over the River Tame

Portland Basin Museum, home to historic wooden boats Forget me Not, Lilith and Hazel who is under current restoration

The water wheel at the museum

Moored just before bridge no 1 on the Peak Forest Canal

Chadderton to Manchester

2011-06-10T08:34:00.001-07:00

Chadderton was the last secure place to moor before hitting Manchester. An early start today as we were about 1.5 hours away from lock 65 where we had booked to meet the lock keeper at 8.30. Then yet another busy day as we completed 20 locks and a lift bridge. All went without a hitch and was very surprised that we made it through without having to go in the weed hatch, especially having spoken to other boaters. We were met at the bottom lock in Manchester by the same lock keeper 4.5 hours later. We have now completed the Rochdale canal, 83 locks in 31 miles, although it has been hard work it has been worth it for the scenery alone. Many thanks to Dave for helping us through, even though he thought he was coming for a boating holiday and not a walking holiday.

Grimshaw Lane Lift bridge, lifting unusually on a horizontal plane, on four hydraulic rams

Running along side the M60 at a much slower pace

Lock 65, waiting for BW to open the gates

Lock 66

Lock 74, more than enough water

Aiming for the middle

Couldn’t resist

Lock 78 and Victoria Mill

Victoria Mill, now offices one side and apartments the other

Coming towards lock 82

Moored in Manchester

Littleborough to Chadderton

2011-06-10T07:46:00.001-07:00

Another busy day, set off from Littleborough to do 2 swing bridges and 15 locks taking us through Rochdale. All went well, after the stories we had been hearing, we didn’t know what to expect. The two locks in Rochdale were very thick with rubbish, but no worse than we have been through before in other towns. The Slattocks flight of locks were very pleasant and we moored not long after just before the aqueduct at Chadderton.

Crossfield Mill in Rochdale

The second lock through Rochdale

An inscription under the bridge

A removable floating tow path under the M62

A tight squeeze

The lock house at the top of Slattocks locks

Plenty of water now

The Summit to Littleborough

2011-06-08T09:07:00.000-07:00

Waited for the lock keeper to arrive this morning to unlock the paddles, luckily we managed to get permission to go through, but the two boats behind were going to be stuck there for awhile as they were closing the canal due to lack of water. We were told there was plenty of water as we were now going down towards Manchester, but that was not the case as there were severe shortage of water in some of the pounds and the only way to get moving was to let more water through the locks. Moored at Littleborough after a very wet cruise, hoping for a better day tomorrow.

Afloat again, ready to go over the summit

Set off in lovely weather, but it wasn’t to last

Cautiously crossing the summit pound

Over the summit, now all down hill to Manchester

Doesn’t look like a water shortage as the lock over spills

The rain is a coming

The next pound looking alarmingly low

Didn’t get very far before getting grounded, luckily we did get moving again.

Walsden to The Summit

2011-06-07T06:32:00.000-07:00

Set off for the summit today, having already booked our passage. The scenery just got better and better as we cruised along. Although as we got higher the pounds got very shallow, we managed to get into the top pound before the summit, but we passed two boats that decided to stay two pounds below. As the afternoon progressed the water level was getting lower and lower, that by 5.00 we were grounded and on such a tilt that we had to phone the BW emergency number to re-float us. Luckily that got us through the night.

Lovely lock names like Winterbutlee and Nip Square

Heading for the summit

The pound getting lower and lower

Nice view ahead though

Hebden Bridge to Walsden

2011-06-07T01:36:00.001-07:00

We are so glad we decided to do the Rochdale, even though there are a lot of locks the scenery is superb. Even though a road and railway follows us all the way and it is quite built up in places, you still get the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere. We stopped off at Todmorden for lunch, but decided to move on as we had read about a brilliant chippy that had been in the same family for 90 years, unfortunately they close at 3.30 and we got there at 5.00, but fortunately the Cross Keys Inn at Walsden was opposite our moorings and the food was fantastic. Which we well deserved after completing 20 locks today, all at an average of 10 ft deep.

Leaving Hebden Bridge

The guillotine lock at Todmorden

A blue brick retaining wall, known as the Great Wall of Tod

Railway bridge at Gauxholme

Coming into Walsden

Sowerby Bridge to Hebden Bridge

2011-06-05T09:41:00.001-07:00

We had originally booked our passage onto the Rochdale Canal for 8.30 Monday morning, our friend Dave arrived today to help us all week, as he arrived quite early and it wasn’t too busy the lock keeper let us through . We thought Bath lock was the deepest at 19 ft, but Tuel Lane lock is the deepest at 20 ft, but this one is manned and we did the Bath lock ourselves. We completed 7 locks today to get us to Hebden Bridge, only another 85 locks to go.

The approach to Tuel Lane lock through a tunnel

Tuel Lane Lock

Still climbing, the scenery is very impressive

Took a stroll around Hebden Bridge, very picturesque with unique shops

Moored for the night at Hebden Bridge

Cromwell Bottom to Sowerby Bridge

2011-06-04T09:03:00.001-07:00

A mixture of sunshine and cloud today, but a very pleasant cruise through Calderdale. On one side we were low in cuttings and on the other we were high up on embankments, as we wound our way along the hillside. The Calder & Hebble now completed as we arrive at Sowerby Bridge. We took on diesel at Shire Cruisers ready for the start of the Rochdale.

Park Nook Lock

Woodside Mills Lock

Approaching our first Guillotine lock at Salterhebble

Entering the lock, can’t say I enjoyed the experience.

Middle and top lock at Salterhebble

Manchester to Bradford railway

Moored for the night at Sowerby Bridge basin

Cooper Bridge to Cromwell Bottom

2011-06-03T11:53:00.001-07:00

Another glorious day, the river cruising was spectacular and the canal sections very interesting. Stopped at services at Brighouse and made use of the canal side moorings for Sainsbury’s. A fairly gentle day, doing 7 locks. Even though we had been told we didn’t need a hand spike we are glad we managed to get one as on a few of the locks that was the only means to open the paddles.

Leaving Cooper Bridge, the Huddersfield Canal to the left and Sowerby Bridge to the right

Another reminder of the past. A pulley at Kirklees Lock.

Waiting to go up Kirklees Lock

Passing under the M62

Top lock at Brighouse

The plaque on the bridge is Leeds Steel Works Builders 1895

The hand spike in action again. The only way to lower the paddle is to pull it out and the paddle drops !!

Nice moorings for the night at Cromwell Bottom

Calder Grove to Cooper Bridge

2011-06-02T11:28:00.001-07:00

A beautiful summer’s day, blue skies and sunshine all the way. We have cruised alternating between canal and river today. The gentle navigation of a broad canal and then suddenly wide expanse of river. The locks have been climbing steadily since we left Leeds, doing a total of 10 locks today. We stopped for lunch and a shop at Mirfield, then cruised a little further on to Cooper Bridge.

Setting off this morning from Calder Grove

Horbury Bridge

Millbank Lock

Lodge Farm Bridge

Thornhill Double Locks

On the river section at Ravensthorpe

Greenwood Lock

Making use of the hand spike we had to purchase

Moored for the night at Cooper Bridge Flood Lock

Stanley Ferry to Calder Grove

2011-06-01T11:41:00.001-07:00

Left Stanley Ferry this morning with a quick stop at the services by Ramsden’s Swing Bridge. A pleasant morning cruise in the sunshine towards Wakefield, where we had a short stay for lunch and a run to the shops. We are now on the Calder and Hebble, having completed 3 locks, moored for the night at Broad Cut visitors moorings at Calder Grove.

Broadreach Flood Lock

Fall Ing Lock, the start of the Calder and Hebble

Moored for lunch in Wakefield

Wakefield Flood Lock

Wakefield Warehouse

Leeds to London railway, locally known as 99 arches

Yet another different paddle gear. Both ground paddles located in the one unit.

Moored for the night at Calder Grove

Allerton Bywater to Stanley Ferry

2011-05-31T11:10:00.001-07:00

Left Allerton Bywater this morning in sunshine. Turning right at Castleford junction towards Wakefield, going through 3 locks to moor at Stanley Ferry.

Passing moored boats at Methley Bridge

Disused viaduct in the foreground and Stephenson’s Bridge in the background

Woodnook Lock, 13 ft 6 ins deep

Leaving Kings Road lock

The old and new aqueducts at Stanley Ferry. The old cast iron one was built in 1836 and the newer one in 1981

The Calder aqueduct, the largest cast iron aqueduct in the world and one of the most ornate.

View from our mooring for the night

Leeds to Allerton Bywater

2011-05-30T12:05:00.001-07:00

Awoke to rain this morning, but at least it was calm and for once no wind. Set off ready to see what the Aire and Calder had to offer. Going through five locks, all electrically operated, so Ian had an easy time pressing buttons. The locks on this section were all 185 ft long and I felt lost in the length of them.

All by myself in Knostrop Fall Lock

Thwaite Mills Industrial Museum

Aire & Calder Navigation

Passing under the M1, I know what I would sooner be doing !!

Woodlesford Lock

Waiting for Ian at Lemonroyd Lock

Enjoying the view from our moorings

Leeds

2011-05-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

Slightly overstayed in Leeds, but it would have been worth the charge, if there were anyone around checking. The weather was very blustery, there was no let up in the wind at all. Kelly, Dave and Daisy came for the weekend, we had a great time and Daisy behaved herself. We had additional visitors on Saturday, friends Sarah, Sam and Lindsey came for a girlie day out which we thoroughly enjoyed. We went out for lunch, had a few drinks and lots of gossip. Then Sunday evening it was lovely to see and catch up with Lisa and Jonathan. The only problem was I forgot to take any photos for the blog.

Early evening view from our moorings

Daisy making sure she gets to bed first

Dave, Kelly and Daisy

Rodley to Leeds

2011-05-26T12:42:00.001-07:00

Set off in anticipation of Leeds with a mixture of sunshine and heavy showers. Going through 13 locks, including two 3 rises and a 2 rise, then dropping down onto the Aire & Calder to moor in Clarence Docks. Also said goodbye to mum and dad as they caught the train back home today, having spent the last ten days with us.

Former Kirkstall Brewery

Approaching Office Lock

Granary Wharf

Granary Wharf, waiting for the River Lock to fill

Leeds Bridge, 1873

Centenary Bridge

Knights Way Bridge, The Royal Armouries Museum

Entering Clarence Dock

Moored in Clarence Dock

Shipley to Rodley

2011-05-25T12:36:00.000-07:00

A very pleasant cruise today, mostly through woodland. Going through 2 staircase locks, a 3 rise and a 2 rise, plus 9 swing bridges. That is now the last of the swing bridges making a total of 41 from Wigan to Leeds. Mooring overnight outside Rodley, just before Newley locks.

Dad having a different view of the locks at Field 3 Rise

Apperley Bridge

Passing through Rodley

Bingley to Shipley

2011-05-24T10:48:00.001-07:00

A busy day today, and we still have the strong winds. We completed a total of 11 locks, including 3 staircases, Bingley 5 Rise, Bingley 3 Rise and Dowley Gap 2 Rise, plus 5 swing bridges. Although we did have lock keeper assistance at both the Bingley staircases. The day didn’t go without complications, one of the swing bridges wouldn’t close, eventually we were told just to slam it to drop the locking mechanism, which did the trick and we could get our key back out. Stopped for lunch at Saltaire and had a very nice meal in the Boathouse Inn, afterwards visiting Salts Mill, which includes the David Hockney Gallery. On returning back to the boat we found that some low life had thrown my flowers and life ring overboard, we might have given the wind the benefit of the doubt if it hadn’t been for the footprints left on the gunwhale. Leaving Saltaire we immediately pass through Shipley, but moorings didn’t look inviting so we went a little further into countryside.

Looking down Bingley 5 Rise, dropping 60 ft

Yet another strange paddle gear

Going down

Exiting the last chamber

Looking back at Bingley 5 Rise

Looking down Bingley 3 Rise, dropping 30 ft

Damart Mill

Exiting Dowley Gap 2 Rise, dropping 18 ft 4 ins

Saltaire, built by Sir Titus Salt in 1853, moored between New Mill (NHS) and Salts Mill

A view of New Mill (NHS) and the River Aire

Shipley Wharf

Kildwick to Bingley

2011-05-23T09:03:00.001-07:00

After having a rest day yesterday due to the strong winds and heavy rain. We got up this morning still to strong winds, but set off in the hope it would improve. A busy day for Ian as he had 14 swing bridges in 8 miles, one of the electric bridges wouldn’t work so we had to call out BW. We didn’t have too long to wait, they arrived within 10 minutes and sorted out the problem quickly in the main control box. Now moored at the top of the Bingley five rise after using the services, ready to do the flight tomorrow.

Cruising between Kildwick and Silsden

Heading towards Silsden

Leaving Silsden

Approaching another swing bridge

Moored at Bingley, ready for the locks tomorrow

Inghey Bridge – Skipton - Kildwick

2011-05-22T02:50:00.001-07:00

A sunny cruise to Skipton, giving us a full day to shop and explore. We had a trip to the castle whilst mum and dad went to the church, meeting up later for lunch at Bizzie Lizzie’s, the famous fish and chip restaurant. It was nice to wander around the market, but it was very busy, especially with it being a Saturday. We had a later cruise to moor in the countryside, stopping off to have a look at the Polish Airmen Memorial and then finding moorings at Kildwick.

Heading towards Skipton

One of the many swing bridges, which have replaced the locks for a few days

The last swing bridge into Skipton

The Springs Branch, which leads past the castle, but not for craft longer than 35ft. We also fuelled at Pennine Cruisers by very helpful staff

Towards the town centre

The outer gate to Skipton Castle

The main entrance

The Conduit Court, the Yew tree was planted in 1659

The Banqueting Hall

Steps down to the Dungeon

Excellent fish and chips

Leaving Skipton

The Polish Airmen Memorial, seven airmen lost their lives when their Wellington bomber crashed in 1943

The view from our moorings

Bank Newton to Inghey Bridge

2011-05-20T12:20:00.001-07:00

Another wonderful day, apart from the rain showers. The scenery is unbeatable, our first lock flight of the day was Bank Newton locks, a flight of six, dropping down into the valley of the Aire. Then another flight of six through Gargrave. We stopped for lunch at Gargrave and had a quick walk into the very picturesque village. In the afternoon we completed the last three locks through Gargrave, two swing bridges, then moored in the middle of beautiful countryside.

Views for miles

Clough type ground paddles

Bank Newton locks

Mum and Dad, earning their keep

Looking down towards the last lock of the Bank Newton flight

Canal side cottage, dated 1791

Gargrave flight

Looking for moorings, spoilt for choice

Salterforth to Bank Newton

2011-05-19T08:47:00.001-07:00

Left Salterforth this morning and the sun was shining, first stop being Greenberfield top lock to use the services. Also for the first time since starting the L&L we shared locks and surprisingly saw a few more boats moving around. The views are now absolutely stunning, full panoramic sights of the dales for miles. Stopped off at East Marton for lunch and had a stroll to the church, a lovely church with a Norman tower. The L&L canal was started in 1771 and the full length completed in 1816. During the construction of this section a number of navvies died of smallpox and are buried in the churchyard. Cruised a little further on to moor in the middle of nowhere between East Marton and Bank Newton.

Mum and Dad enjoying a stroll at the picturesque flight of Greenberfield locks

Paddle gears with brakes !!

Last of the flight of three locks, now ready for quite a few twists and turns

You can see the bridges in the distance

Moored for lunch at East Marton

St. Peter’s Church, East Marton. The first church was probably from the 10th century, there has been a wooden church on this site for over a thousand years and the present stone building between 1147 and 1186.

Bridge 161, East Marton. The upper road bridge was added later above the original canal bridge

Former horse line roller post, to assist the ropes around the tight bends

Views from our mooring

Barrowford to Salterforth

2011-05-18T10:17:00.001-07:00

Having climbed out of the valley of the Colne and Pendle, we are now 487 feet above sea level. We then come to the Foulridge tunnel, which is controlled by traffic lights. After waiting over a hour with the lights on red, another boat joined us and said they had never seen the lights on green. In the end we just went for it, feeling okay as you could actually see the other end of the tunnel. It took 15 minutes to get through and the lights at the other end were also on red!

Foulridge Tunnel, 1640 yards

Nearly at the end, luckily without meeting anyone

Foulridge Wharf

The countryside is changing now as we leave Lancashire and enter Yorkshire

The first canalside pub, since Wigan and very nice it was too. It actually predates the canal with stalactites in the cellar.

Moored at Salterforth visitors moorings

Reedley – Nelson – Barrowford

2011-05-17T10:22:00.001-07:00

Spent a lazy Sunday at Reedley and had some retail therapy at the Juntion 12 retail outlet. Set off towards Nelson Monday morning, mooring outside Morrisons to restock. Ian was still feeling unwell with chest pains, so we took a taxi to the UCC at Burnley to get him checked out, before we set off into countryside. Luckily all the tests came back positive and was put down to gastric problems. We finally got back to the boat about six o’clock, due to the traumatic day we ended up staying on the Morrison moorings. We headed off the next morning with the 7 Barrowford Locks in front of us, the weather had only improved slightly. Mum and Dad arrived safely today to join us until Leeds.

Juntion 12 retail outlet

The start of the Barrowford flight of seven

Moorings for the night, reached the summit, all locks now downhill to Leeds

Rose Grove to Reedley

2011-05-14T08:22:00.001-07:00

Waited a little while for the rain to blow over before setting off this morning heading towards Burnley. We first had to go through Gannow tunnel before reaching what is known as the Weavers’ Triangle. There are many old textile mills with their towering chimneys and weaving sheds all lining the canal for miles. Some having been lovingly restored, but most were derelict. The Burnley Embankment gives a bird’s eye view of Burnley, being sixty feet high and three-quarters of a mile long, carrying the canal over the valleys of Calder and Brun.

Approaching Gannow Tunnel, 559 yards

It is wide enough for two way traffic !!!

The old and the new

Passing the many mills

Slater’s Terrace, under restoration. Ground floor workshops are topped by workers’ cottages.

Burnley Wharf

Back into the countryside, leaving Burnley behind

Moored for the night near Reedley nurseries, ideal opportunity to replace our flowers

Church to Rose Grove

2011-05-13T11:34:00.001-07:00

Spent another night at Church as the weather was awful, especially the gusting winds. The forecast today was rain in the afternoon, so we had an early start and luckily we did not get wet, although the temperatures have dropped considerably. The L&L is a contour canal and after cruising for an hour we had just about gone around in a complete circle, being a stone’s throw away from where we were moored near Church. We were heading for what Pearson’s described as a secure mooring at Rose Grove, to enable us to go into Burnley to replace our mobile broadband. The moorings are not quite what we pictured, but will have to do for the night.

Mural

Church Wharf. Flyboats once unloaded cotton at this three storey canal warehouse.

Does this chimney look straight?

Just one of the three swing bridges we went through today

Drystone wall boundary and a horizon of moorlands

Fantastic views as we head towards Burnley

Rose Grove visitor’s moorings

Withnell Fold to Church

2011-05-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

The landscape has started changing now and we were treated to a glimpse of what we have got to come, but then we hit Blackburn. It wasn’t quite as bad as we thought it would be, passing the old mills, some of which have now been demolished making way for new housing and retail. The flight of Blackburn locks were very urban, as we climbed up, now overlooking the cathedral and Thwaite’s brewery. A short section after the locks, we were having to dodge the shopping trolley’s, due to three nearby supermarkets, but we came out unscathed. We are now back in countryside, enjoying the views.

Health & Safety? Having to climb onto the stile, over the beam to stand on the wobbly wooden platform, suspended over gaping lock to wind the paddle up !!

Nova Scotia Wharf

Groundwork, Nova Scotia Wharf

Surprisingly we didn’t get wet

Eanam Wharf. A goods depot which opened in 1810

Daisyfield Mill. Built as a flour mill, now a business centre for Granada TV

Imperial Mill, built in 1900, now a Grade II listed building.

The view from our mooring, overlooking the village of Church

Enjoying the view, sat in the cratch. (with a glass of wine of course).

Haigh Hall to Withnell Fold

2011-05-09T11:31:00.000-07:00

We are finally on the move again, stopping for diesel and services at White Bear Marina at Adlington. We originally planned to moor at Botany Bay and visit the shopping complex, but found nowhere suitable to moor. So we carried on through Johnson’s Hillock locks, a pretty flight of seven. Mooring for the night at Withnell Fold at the side of a former paper mill, which once produced bank-note paper.

Our first view of the Pennine moorlands

White Bear Marina, modern services, including card machine to pay for diesel

Botany Bay, converted mill, now a shopping complex

U-boat on the Leeds and Liverpool?

The Preston Temple of the Church of Latter Day Saints

Approaching Johnson’s Hillock locks, the course of the Lancaster canal on the left, which peters out after a few miles being buried under the M61

Halfway up the flight

Withnell Fold visitors moorings

Haigh Hall Country Park

2011-05-08T07:49:00.000-07:00

Our visitors arrived, unfortunately so did the rain. Saturday’s plans of a game of pitch and putt and then a bbq ended up with us all piling in Carol and Tony’s camper van and going to find a pub for lunch. Sunday was just as enjoyable as we celebrated Ian’s birthday in the hall for Sunday lunch.

Max and Poppy

Saying goodbye to Carol and Tony after a lovely day

Lunch was very nice indeed

Saying goodbye to Claire and Jason after a great weekend

A stroll around the walled gardens to walk off our dinner

Haigh Hall Country Park

2011-05-06T09:36:00.001-07:00

We had time today to explore some of the grounds of Haigh Park. We will have a busy weekend without moving anywhere. Claire and Jason are arriving later this evening to spend the weekend with us, so we went to check out the car parking. It will be lovely to catch up with them as we haven’t seen them since their wedding. Also our friends Carol and Tony are popping over to see us tomorrow as well. With a stroke of luck the hall has an event on Sunday, a 3 course carvery with ambience music from a guest pianist, which works out great as it is Ian’s birthday.

A porthole view from the galley

A small basin provided for goods destined for the hall

Haigh Hall Lodge

An ornate footbridge to the Hall

The grounds are full of masses of rhododendrons

Haigh Hall, built in 1827. Formerly owned by the Earl of Crawford, sold in 1947 to Wigan Council

Plank Lane Lift Bridge to Haigh Hall Country Park

2011-05-04T12:33:00.001-07:00

Our hard work started today. We did plan on doing the Wigan flight of 21 locks tomorrow, but the forecast was rain, so we decided to have an early start and go for it. We set off at 8.00 am as we had over an hour cruising and the two Poolstock locks to do before we hit the Wigan flight, finally mooring at 5.45. A very tiring day, 23 locks and 9 hours cruising. Although we waited an hour, hoping another boat would arrive, three locks up I dashed to the shops and still no boats arrived, the only luck we had was that all the locks were in our favour.

Cruising past many of the former colliery sites and ironworks

Approaching Poolstock lock. Our first lock since the Big lock at Middlewich (not counting the Weaver locks as they were manned)

This is our first time on the Leeds and Liverpool and we are coming across new and strange winding gear. The gates are so heavy, the winding gear and chain helps the back pain

Poolstock Lock

Due to the short beam, winding gear assists again

Another interesting paddle gear

The locks on the Wigan flight are very deep with heavy gates. All the paddles are locked with anti vandal locks.

Wigan below

Many ropes over the years have worn away this bollard

Moorings for tonight, high above Wigan, having climbed 214 ft 7 ins in 2 miles

Little Bollington to Plank Lane Lift Bridge

2011-05-03T10:15:00.001-07:00

It was to be our last day of cruising with Windsong today, we said our goodbyes first thing as we were separating at Waters Meeting junction. Windsong carried onto Castlefield, Manchester and we are now on the Leeds and Liverpool heading towards Wigan.

The Linotype Works, Broadheath. An old cotton warehouse.

In contrast, new apartments in Broadheath

Waters Meeting junction

Waving goodbye to Pip and Rog

Barton Swing Aqueduct. Built in 1893, 235 ft long and weighs 1450 tons and spans the Manchester Ship canal

Barton road bridge adjacent to the Barton Swing Aqueduct with the M60 in the background

Approaching Worsley, the site of the very first canal. The water has now changed to orange caused by the ironstone

The half timbered Packet House. Canal passengers of two centuries ago descended the steps to board the packets for Wigan and Manchester. To the right of the house is the entrance to the old coal mines, over forty miles of underground system of canals on three levels connected by an inclined plane.

One of the many cotton mills at Bedford

Pennington Flash Country Park, behind our moorings for tonight

Plank Lane Lift Bridge, operated by BW bridge keeper

Moore to Little Bollington

2011-05-02T11:55:00.001-07:00

Another very windy day, but luckily the Bridgewater canal is quite wide so we managed okay. We had a stop at Lymm, which is a lovely town, a lot of the shops were closed as it was bank holiday Monday. We had a walk down the Dingle to Lymm Dam, then had a quick shop for provisions and called in at the chip shop for lunch. Carried on a little further to moor at Little Bollington.

Walton New Bridge

The Dingle at Lymm

Lymm

The stocks in the centre of Lymm

Leaving Lymm

Bartington to Moore

2011-05-01T09:21:00.001-07:00

Just a short cruise today, the sun is still shining but we have had very high winds. The highlight of today has been going through Preston Brook tunnel, as with Saltersford tunnel we had a timed entry, which we unfortunately missed by five minutes due to the amount of boats travelling northbound. Preston Brook tunnel was the first major tunnel to be built on the canal system, joining the Trent and Mersey to the Bridgewater canal. In 1982 the centre section of the tunnel had to be rebuilt after a post office collapsed into it. Had a lazy Sunday afternoon and went to the Red Lion at Moore for lunch.

Just setting off

Preston Brook tunnel, 1239 yards

Mooring for the night at Moore

Total locks to date = 163

Anderton to Bartington

2011-04-30T09:42:00.001-07:00

Ian managed to get the engine serviced yesterday afternoon and we had a late start this morning as we waited for our time slot of 11.30 for the return trip on the boat lift. It was still as exciting as we were given our instructions for our upward journey, making our way back onto the Trent and Mersey. We went through two kinky tunnels, Barnton and Saltersford. Mooring just after Bartington Wharf, with the River Weaver now the scenery below.

Approaching the Anderton boat lift from the River Weaver

Approaching the caisson, going up !!

Barnton

Barnton Tunnel, 572 yards

Saltersford Tunnel, 424 yards

Tonight’s moorings, with a view of the River Weaver

Barnton Cutt to Northwich to Anderton

2011-04-29T10:44:00.001-07:00

Left another lovely mooring to head back past Anderton on our way to Northwich. Moorings at Northwich were very scarce apart from a high sided wall, we made a quick stop for water and loos and Pip and I had a quick dash to the shops. We had past some nice moorings at Anderton, so instead of going on further we turned back and moored there. It was also an excuse to catch up on the Royal Wedding.

The numerous salt works on the River Weaver

Northwich Town swing bridge

Heading back towards Anderton

Devils Garden to Frodsham to Barnton Cutt

2011-04-28T11:32:00.001-07:00

It was a real pull to have to leave our moorings today, it is so peaceful when all you can hear are the birds. Another wonderful day setting off with blue skies, we cruised down to Frodsham, dropping my sister off at Sutton Weaver swing bridge where we booked a taxi. After Frodsham the chemical works start and it gets very industrial so we turned and headed back upstream. Mooring for the night at Barnton Cutt.

Another beautiful day on the River Weaver

Just past Sutton Weaver swing bridge

Dutton lock, showing redundant semaphore signals and dual chambers

Approaching Saltersford lock

Moored for the night at Barnton Cutt

Anderton Boat Lift onto the River Weaver

2011-04-27T12:56:00.001-07:00

Our visitors arrived yesterday, so we had to try out the local, The Stanley Arms, where we had a very nice meal. Waited for our time slot the next morning, anticipating our first time trip on the boat lift. We were not disappointed as it was really amazing. The River Weaver is stunning, today we turned right towards Frodsham, passing through Saltersford lock and Dutton lock and found perfect moorings at Devils Garden.

The Anderton Boat lift, a great feat of engineering

Windsong and Serenity, ready to go down

Coming out onto the River Weaver

Winington Swing Bridge, headroom 8’ 10”

What could be better than this?

Saltersford Lock

Acton Swing bridge

Sunken craft approaching Dutton lock

Dutton lock

Dutton viaduct, built in 1837

Perfect moorings, time for another great bbq

Great company, me, Pip, Rog, my nephews Connor and Matthew, my sister Denise and Cassie the dog

Middlewich to Anderton Boat Lift

2011-04-27T12:17:00.001-07:00

Had a busy day today as we fuelled at Kings Lock Chandlery, shopped at Middlewich and watered etc at Anderton. We are now back on the Trent and Mersey on our way to the Anderton Boat Lift. As we passed by the Dane Valley we also passed by the flashes where submerged wrecks of abandoned narrowboats lay. From Middlewich we left beautiful countryside into industrial areas, primarily salt works, which have been around these areas since Roman times.

Middlewich Junction

Middlewich Locks

Middlewich

Croxton Aqueduct

Sunken boats in the flashes

Chemical works, not all countryside

Cholmondeston lock to Middlewich

2011-04-25T10:48:00.001-07:00

After a lazy Easter Sunday, chilling out, drinking and another bbq to finish another great day. We then had a very scenic run through to Middlewich today. Mooring just before Stanthorne lock. We also phoned ahead and booked our passage down the Anderton boat lift for 10.45 on Wednesday morning.

Just setting off, another nice day

Windsong exiting Minshull lock

Minshull Wharf

Old canal side stables, now a residence

Top flash beside the River Weaver

Beeston Castle to Cholmondeston lock

2011-04-24T01:19:00.001-07:00

The first lock today was Beeston Iron lock, as only one boat could enter at a time there was soon a queue building in both directions. Two more locks followed with no hold ups and only had a short wait at Bunbury staircase locks. Although we did have to do the Bunbury shuffle, which we did to perfection in front of the bank holiday gongoozlers. We stopped off at Calveley Wharf services for water etc. which was a former transhipment depot between the canal and railway. Then a sharp left turn at Barbridge Junction to take us onto the Middlewich Branch, mooring topside of Cholmondeston lock.

Masses of bluebells for quite a long stretch

Approaching Bunbury staircase locks

Calveley Wharf

Barbridge Junction

Chester to Egg Bridge to Beeston Castle

2011-04-23T08:10:00.001-07:00

More and more working boats were arriving in Chester, so we felt obliged to leave as space was getting tighter. We dropped Denise off by Old Harkers so she could get her train home and we carried on, mooring just outside Egg Bridge. As the weather was still hot we got out the bbq for another enjoyable evening. The following day we made our way slowly past many private moored boats and moored just above Wharton’s lock by Beeston Castle. We must have felt quite energetic as we decided to walk up to the castle, we have been before so we knew what we were letting ourselves in for, but the views are certainly well worth it.

Heading towards Christleton lock

Wharton’s Lock

View of Beeston Castle from our moorings

Hazy sunshine, if you look just beyond the train behind the bushes you can just make out the boats

Chester

2011-04-21T00:48:00.001-07:00

A very sunny day spent wandering around Chester, starting with a walk around the city walls. As the day went on we were surrounded by more and more working boats, which will all be leaving in convoy on Friday to Ellesmere Port.

Looking down on the canal from the city walls

Chester Cathedral

Bustling Chester

Chester Castle

Enjoying the weather outside Telford Warehouse

My sister enjoying a short break with us

Serenity and Windsong surrounded by the working boats starting to gather in Tower Wharf.

Beeston Castle to Chester

2011-04-20T09:26:00.001-07:00

We nearly didn’t make it to Chester. The plan was to have an early start and get ahead of the working boats coming through, heading for Ellesmere Port, but three of them had an earlier start than us. As we were approaching Chester we were told of trouble at the next lock, Hoole Lane Lock, we had no choice but to join the queue and wait for the repairs to be completed. We were still waiting over four hours later and now had ten boats waiting and another three above the previous lock. Luckily bw workers managed to replace the paddle with cut pieces of plywood as a temporary fix. My sister had arrived by train and managed to walk up and find us. The next problem was mooring, we wanted to moor in Telford Warehouse basin, but after going down Northgate staircase lock we found no space left. We carried on and found moorings opposite the golf course and winded the following morning heading back to the basin, with better luck this time.

Hoole Lane Lock, nearly there after a long wait. the Victorian water tower in the background

Passing the city walls

Very impressive, cut through the rocks

Going down the very deep Northgate staircase lock

Burland to Beeston Castle

2011-04-18T13:37:00.001-07:00

Quite a long day cruising today. Watered and looed at the top of Hurleston flight but made slow progress down the flight due to the amount of boats. Passed Barbridge junction on our way towards Chester. After a total of 10 locks today we moored for a pub meal at the Shady Oak near Beeston Castle.

Leaving Hurleston flight turning towards Chester

Passing Barbridge Junction

Waiting to come down Bunbury staircase lock

Bunbury staircase, the stable blocks in the background, which were used for fresh horses for the fly boats

Round houses, used by the lengths men to store equipment

Beeston Iron lock

Beeston Iron lock, although a broad lock, only one boat at a time because the sides are distorted

The Shady Oak, canal side

The outcrop of Beeston Castle

Wrenbury Heath to Burland

2011-04-18T00:40:00.001-07:00

The sun was shining today for us, five locks with a little wait at each lock as it was quite busy. The new Swanley Bridge Marina has been well thought out and has a long convenient stretch, canal side, to moor for diesel etc. so we stopped for a top up. We moored early to revisit Snugburys for more ice cream and as it was still such a nice day, out came the drinks and we had a bbq.

Baddiley locks set in fantastic countryside

Swanley Bridge Marina

Moored near bridge 4, the quickest route to Snugburys

Grindley Brook to Wrenbury Heath

2011-04-16T10:00:00.001-07:00

A lovely pleasant cruise today, only a short run and four locks. We stopped off at Alvechurch boat centre, Wrenbury Mill as we had ordered a spare belt on the way up to collect on our return journey, unfortunately it was the wrong size and make. Moored topside of Baddiley locks for the evening.

Sunrise

Marbury lock

Wrenbury Mill

Whitchurch to Grindley Brook

2011-04-15T09:40:00.001-07:00

We only had a short cruise today as we stopped off for a cup of tea with fellow bloggers nb Caxton and nb Matilda Rose, who were moored just off the Whitchurch arm. Then onto the queue at the staircase lock at Grindley Brook, which didn’t seem too bad, we were fourth in line, but still took awhile to move along as they let three up and three down. Moored for the night opposite Hinton Hall with rolling countryside to look out on to.

Early morning reflections

Middle chamber of the Grindley Brook staircase lock

Sheltering behind the lock gates

Approaching the bottom lock

Exiting the bottom lock

Strong by-wash, exiting the bottom lock

Ellesmere to Whitchurch

2011-04-14T11:35:00.001-07:00

We had decided to spend an extra day in Ellesmere yesterday as the weather forecast wasn’t looking very good. Luckily we did as we had to find a dentist for Ian, his filling had dropped out and he required a replacement. Set off again this morning in more calm settled weather into hire boat madness. There are a lot of hire boat companies on this canal and it seems like they were all out at once, I know it is close to Easter school holidays but it was really busy compared to our journey out.

Approaching Ellesmere tunnel

Exiting Ellesmere Tunnel

Water point mayhem, luckily we timed it right and was just leaving as the queue suddenly formed

Moored for the night between bridges 37 and 38, just before Whitchurch

Frankton Junction to Ellesmere

2011-04-12T10:46:00.001-07:00

Only a short cruise today, beacause we had to hang around until 12.00 for the lock keeper. We moored at Ellesmere so we could do a Tesco shop. We also called in at Blackwater Meadow Marina at Ellesmere, as the boat had to be treated to a new battery for the bow thruster, as it was sounding quite sick and wasn’t holding charge.

Waiting for the lock keeper at Frankton locks

Bottom lock

Looking up the flight

Entering the bottom chamber of the staircase lock

Approaching Ellesmere, British Waterways maintenance depot on the right.

Maesbury Marsh to Frankton Junction

2011-04-11T09:23:00.001-07:00

Set off on our return journey of the Montgomery Canal. The weather was considerably cooler than yesterday, back in coats today. It was still a very pleasant run back, we are booked in for Frankton locks tomorrow.

No rush

Passing under the A5, the busy motorists are probably not aware we are here.

For all you doubters. Yes Ian can steer the boat and yes I do know how to do a lock !!!

Windsong and Serenity moored at Frankton Junction

Perry Aqueduct to Maesbury Marsh

2011-04-10T11:46:00.001-07:00

Another wonderful day, the weather is exceptional for April. Had a gentle cruise to the end of the Montgomery Canal today. It is a beautiful canal and very tranquil, although we did have three locks to get through. Arriving at Maesbury Marsh in time for Sunday lunch in the Navigation.

Looking back at Perry Aqueduct, 7.30 in the morning, bliss.

Green Man (Canal Junction) towing Saturn to Ellesmere Port for the Easter gathering

The former passenger terminal for the packet boat service

Approaching Aston locks

A little narrow in places

Moored at Maesbury Marsh

The Navigation, highly recommended.