Once you get on the water, you begin by travelling north through the Harecastle Tunnel, the fourth largest canal tunnel in the UK, to join the Macclesfield Canal at Hardings Wood. This canal skirts the small towns of Congleton, Macclesfield and Marple.

Congleton, situated on the banks of the River Dane, is renowned for The Cloud, a hill on the border of Cheshire and Staffordshire that allows excellent views of the stunning Cheshire Plain. The plain is a lovely area with several different walking routes, with each offering a new perspective of this vast area.

Macclesfield is also strewn with historical attractions. St Michael’s Church has overlooked the town centre since the 13th century, and the Georgian town hall takes pride of place.

If you’re interested in a pleasant walk, head to the Roman Lakes leisure complex in Marple. The town will also be of interest for ghoul lovers, as it contains two of the most haunted places in Cheshire: Goyt Mill and Marple Hall.