As we picnicked beside the Shropshire Union Canal the thought of gliding effortlessly through the Cheshire countryside along one of Britain's most popular waterways seemed to be an easier option than walking. But it's not all relaxation. The narrow boats turning into the Llangollen Canal at Hurleston Junction have to struggle against the tide gushing out of the bottom chamber, while every lock needs a determined effort. As a lady called to us "After 72 of these you really start to develop the arm muscles!".
LOCATION: Two miles west of Nantwich
START: B53431 Acton, free car park opposite the church Grid ref: SJ632530 Postcode: CW58LF
DISTANCE: 6.5 miles
GRADE: Easy
TIME: Four hours
MAP: Explorer Crewe & Nantwich Grid Ref Post Code Landranger 118
REFRESHMENTS: Pack a flask
EN ROUTE: Henhull Moorings, Llangollen Canal, Shropshire Union Canal
This walk was originally published by
The Manchester Evening News