Wigan to Sale, Bridgewater Canal

After Vicky's parents had made an early start on their narrowboat, we walked the dogs and set off for another full day of cruising. Now that we'd got through the Wigan Lock Flight we needed to get past Wardle Lock at Middlewich before it closed for repair in 5 days' time. Once we were beyond it and on the Shropshire Union canal, Will could get to the train he'd booked from Crew and we could explore the Llangollen Canal over Christmas.

The Leigh Branch was lined with trees in their autumn coats and we disturbed several kingfishers along the way. We've been seeing a great many recently and don't know if it is because we're becoming more practiced at spotting them or because they are more prevalent in this region.

The marinas we passed were mostly small, straight sided and open to the canal, their boats lined up side to side against finger pontoons.

On the approach to Plank Lane lift bridge we spotted Mallard. The bridge has restricted opening times and it seemed Daisy and Paul had arrived just a little too late for the most recent window. Thanks to Will's expert planning we were there just in time to be able to open it at 09:30, letting Mallard go through with us.

We followed behind as we passed from the Leeds and Liverpool Leigh Branch to the privately owned Bridgewater Canal. Boats are allowed free passage along the canal for a limited time but must book ahead.

We ended up having to wait with Daisy and Paul for the Barton Swing Aqueduct to open. It passes over the Manchester Ship Canal and when a tall ship needs to pass, the canal is closed off using thick boards and the entire aqueduct pivots 90° around a central point, water and all! It was very impressive.

When it reopened Mallard let us go first. As soon as Rainboat passed onto the aqueduct the wind hit her and pushed her aggressively against the side. Thankfully it wasn't far to go before we were once again sheltered by trees and land and had control of where we went.

Come mid afternoon we moored in the town of Sale, close to the waterside Bridge Inn. Will deserved an evening away from the galley so we had tea there. It was part of a chain and the food was nice but nothing special. However Kevin the landlord was really friendly and it made for a great atmosphere. The place was bedecked with hundreds of warm white lights and through a curtain of them we could see Rainboat moored against the towpath. The staff paid attention to detail and service was quick. We soon found out how important speed was as we watched kitchen workers come sprinting through an outside door and along a short path to fetch items like milk from the stores. It provided good entertainment!Baca lagi