A Route Planning Guide for the Cheshire Ring from Anderton Marina

Interested in booking a canal boat holiday along the Cheshire Ring? This circular route connects six canals, weaving together countryside towns, city cruising and industrial heritage into one unforgettable loop.  

We’ve broken the route into sections to help you understand how it all connects, so you can plan your days at your own pace.  

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What makes up the Cheshire Ring? 

The Cheshire Ring isn’t a single canal but a network of connected waterways in England. Starting from Anderton, near Preston Brook, the route links together:

• The Bridgewater Canal: A wide, lock-free cruising section 

• The Rochdale Canal: Includes the famous Rochdale Nine locks 

• The Ashton Canal: A lock-heavy climb out of the city 

• The Peak Forest Canal: Leads to Marple 

• The Macclesfield Canal: Known for its peaceful stretches of countryside 

• The Trent & Mersey Canal: Ventures through Cheshire’s historic salt towns  
  
  

Cheshire Ring route map from Anderton Marina

Total distance: Approx. 97 miles  Locks: 92  Typical duration: 7-14 nights  Cruising time per day: Approx. 8 hours (53 hours total)

 
We recommend at least 10 nights for the best balance between cruising, exploring and relaxing on the water.  

The sections of the Cheshire Ring  

We’ve broken the ring into six cruising sections using the route map above, so you can plan your itinerary and see how each part of the journey fits together. 

Anderton Marina to Lymm 

The route starts gently, which is ideal if you're new to canal boating. Leaving Anderton, you'll join the Bridgewater Canal along a lock-free stretch that gives you time to find your feet with steering, stopping and mooring. 

Lymm makes a popular first overnight stop, with easy mooring and a good selection of pubs and cafés by the water. It’s a satisfying feeling when you and your crew grab dinner near the water and can really settle into canal life.  

Lymm to Manchester 

The Bridgewater Canal gradually shifts from open countryside to urban greenery. Cruising through Sale, Stretford and Old Trafford, you'll arrive at Castlefield Basin feeling as though you've slipped into the city through a secret back door. Moor here and you'll find restaurants, bars and cultural spots all within easy reach. 

While this section of the ring is straightforward, increased boat traffic and narrowing spaces mean you’ll need to stay alert.  

Manchester to Marple 

Leaving Manchester, with the Etihad Stadium fading behind you, you'll join the Ashton Canal before connecting to the Peak Forest Canal. This is where the locks begin in earnest. The Marple Lock Flight is one of the most memorable and physically demanding parts of the journey, so we recommend setting off early and taking your time through it. The reward at the end is crossing the stunning Marple Aqueduct. 

Marple to Macclesfield 

This section feels like a well-earned rest. With sweeping views of the Peak District and Cheshire, it becomes the kind of afternoon where you switch the engine off, pour a drink and let the countryside do the talking. Keep an eye out for the canal's distinctive snake bridges, a clever feature designed for the working boats of the past.  

There's also the option to detour towards Bugsworth Basin, once one of the busiest inland ports in England. 

Macclesfield to Middlewich 

Rejoining the Trent and Mersey Canal, you'll face the stretch affectionately known as Heartbreak Hill. Despite the name, this long series of locks is more about patience than difficulty. Take it steady, and it becomes one of the more satisfying parts of the journey. The surroundings gradually return to a quieter, rural feel as you head towards Middlewich. 

Middlewich to Anderton 

The final stretch brings everything full circle. From Middlewich back to Anderton, you'll have time to reflect on the journey and enjoy the last few hours on the water. And by now, everything from steering to working locks will feel second nature. 

Most people step off the boat at Anderton quietly reluctant to leave and already wondering when they can come back. 

Did you know: If you didn’t want to complete the full Cheshire Ring, you can choose short breaks to Lymm and back, or through the River Weaver to the Anderton Boat Lift. These are ideal if you’re not ready for a longer canal boat holiday or you’re a beginner boater.  

Key stops along the Cheshire Ring route 

One of the greatest pleasures of the Cheshire Ring is the variety of places you'll pass through, from peaceful rural villages to the heart of England's second-largest city. Planning a few well-timed stops makes the journey easier to manage and leaves you more time to enjoy each place properly. 

Mooring points and essential pit stops 

You can usually moor along the towpath or in designated areas but always check signage and avoid private stretches. Useful stops for services include:

• Preston Brook Wharf 

• Stretford Marina Services  

• Droylsden Marina 

• Lyme View Marina 

• Bollington Wharf 

• Near the Old Hovis Mill 

• Bosley Locks Facilities 

• Heritage Marina 

• Wheelock Wharf 

We recommend stopping for supplies every couple of days rather than waiting until you run short.  

Best canalside pubs 

A few standout stops worth planning into your route:

• London Bridge Inn – Near a mooring spot by Stockton Quay Bridge, just before Lymm. 4 Stars on Trustpilot, 4.3 stars on Google. Comforting pub food, warm and welcoming environment. 

• Ye Old No. 3 – Near Bollington Wharf. 4.3 Stars on Trustpilot, 4.4 stars on Google, offer takeaway so you can enjoy on your boat. Classic pub food with a mix of Indian food on the menu, including Sunday Roast and lunch specials. 

• The Wharf – Just one of many places to try when you moor at Castlefield Basin. 4.2 Stars on Trustpilot, 4.5 stars on Google, even awarded Travellers’ Choice in 2025 on TP. Scenic views, hearty food, rustic interiors.  
  
  

Places worth a detour 

If you’re looking to explore more, there are a few stops worth stepping off the boat for:

• Lymm Village: Independent coffee shops, bakeries, and bars 

• Stockport: A historic market town with food and shopping 

• Manchester: Culture, food, museums and football 

• Macclesfield: Silk heritage, shops and cafes 

• Bugsworth Basin (optional): A tranquil and historically rich inland port 
  
  

How difficult is the Cheshire Ring canal route? 

The Cheshire Ring is a moderate route with some challenging sections, largely due to the number of locks and the occasional need for tight navigation. 

• Easiest: Anderton to Lymm, and the Macclesfield Canal 

• Moderate: Manchester city stretch, and ‘Heartbreak Hill’ 

• Most challenging: The Marple Lock Flight, and parts of the Ashton Canal 

If you're new to canal boating, this route is still very achievable with a little planning and a willing crew. 

How long does the Cheshire Ring take? 

It’s possible to complete the Cheshire Ring in 7 nights, but it leaves little room for stopping and can feel rushed. Adding a few extra nights makes the experience considerably more enjoyable, giving you time to explore properly and tackle the locks without pressure. 

Your Cheshire Ring adventure starts from Anderton Marina 

Anderton Marina puts you right at the start of one of the UK's most rewarding canal routes. With direct access to the Bridgewater Canal and the open water ahead, all that’s left to do is pick your dates and pack your bags.  

Speak to the team today or browse your ideal dates at the top of this page.