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Cheshire Base – Chester and return

Acton Bridge Base to Chester and return canal boat holiday

At a manageable six hours per day on a one week cruise, the Cheshire to Chester canal boat holiday combines relaxation and activity, with the opportunity to see a lovely canals and countryside.
First, travel southwards on the Trent & Mersey Canal passing the Anderson Lift and heading south towards Middlewich. You’ll be cruising through traditional English countryside, with farmers fields and and woodland dotted along your route.

Trent & Mersey Canal

Anderton Lift

Historically, Middlewich was famed for its salt production, silk, Cheshire cheese and agriculture. It now features a wealth of attractions including festivals, farmers’ markets and of course, canals, with three passing through the town. The town centre is within a stone’s through of the canal, so if you need to stock up on supplies or just fancy a quick pint, then it’s easy to moor up and walk in.

Middlewich

You will then turn onto the Middlewich arm to join up with the Shropshire Union Canal. This area of the Middlewich Arm is only ten miles long and was constructed in 1833. There are several restaurants and pubs in the area, including the canal-boat themed Kings Lock Pub.
After grabbing a bite to eat you can continue onwards on the Shropshire Union Canal, the final civic work of the famed engineer, Thomas Telford.
You will soon reach the medieval city of Chester, which offers a host of enjoyable activities, historical sights and pleasant views. The canal is built next to the old city walls, which show delightful sandstone cuttings.

Chester

Chester is steeped in history and a fascinating place to visit – both for sight-seeing and for a spot of retail therapy. It was one of the last towns to fall to the Norman Conquest, and dates back to the year 79, when it was established as a Roman fort. The city has some of the best-preserved Grade I listed walls in the UK, a gothic design Town Hall and a Norman cathedral. If you are looking for contemporary activities, it also contains plenty of bars, restaurants, shops and cinemas.
Finally, you should have time to visit the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port. The museum is located on the banks of the Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal and brings together historic boats and archives that will teach you all about the history of British canals and waterways.

Chester Cathedral