Bridgewater Canal

Manchester to Worsley - 29th October 2016  

Bridgewater Canal (Leigh Branch)

I did approximately 6-7 miles of canal walking on the Leigh Branch from Manchester to Worsley.  The walk was pleasant though unappealing at the beginning with its disused locks, a derelict feel and lots of graffiti.  We had drizzy weather throughout but I was prepared for all weather elements.

After crossing Waters Meeting Point, a big let down in my opinion, the scenery became pleasurable with its autumn colours of its trees.  It was interesting seeing the Barton Aqueduct though I was diverted to cross the Barton Swing Bridge) and approaching Worsley was a treat.  Worsley is such a exquisite village, steeped in history, with its pretty Packet House

Leigh to Worsley - 27th December 2016

Packet House, Worsley, Bridgewater Canal

I caught a bus from Manchester Piccadilly Gardens Exchange to Leigh. I've opted for a System One Day Saver ticket (equivalent of West Yorkshire's Metro Day Rover for buses). I have noted the prices for single bus journeys in Greater Manchester are ridiculously expensive.  After a long bus ride I eventually arrived in Leigh and the canal was just a short walk away. I didn't get to see Leigh properly but noted a number of historic red buildings in the vicinity of the bus station. 

At the beginning of the walk it was uneventful; just taking note of the old buildings which associated with Leigh's industrial past. Some have been restored since but others sadly have been left in a derelict state.  After 2.5 miles or so of walking I reached Astley Green. I wanted to visit the village's colliery museum but it doesn't open until 1.30pm. I decided not to hang around and continued on.  Also I was concious that it's winter and starts to get dark around 4.30pm and I don't want to be still on the canal when its dark. 

There were the challenges of the unpaved muddy towpath...I hope the Peel company does something about the towpath's state? I had to clean up my footwear before going into The Moorings Pub when I reached Boothstown...once cleaned I enjoyed my quick comfort stop.  At the pub I was surprised how close I am to Worsley...just under two miles and seeing the canal turn brown (from nearby former coal mines in the area) as we got nearer and nearer.

I arrived in Worsley ahead of schedule...had some time to explore more of this pretty village including its court house. I was last in Worsley in October 2016 when I walked on the Bridgewater Canal from Manchester and stopped at The Bridgewater Pub for a drink afterwards. The Bridgewater Pub (A Fayre & Square Chain Pub) is housed in a historic building, built in 1903, and was originally a hotel. It's a beautiful Victorian building with black and white exterior Tudor panelling and I had an enjoyable hearty meal there.  Eventually I caught the bus back to Manchester for my train home.