We caught the train from Milton Keynes to Runcorn this morning and picked up Albert from Preston Brook Marina. We are now into part two of our journey through the North-West. We will complete the Cheshire Ring and then return south along the Trent & Mersey, although we plan some small diversions.
Preston Brook Marina
Albert was fine in our absence and, despite not being connected to the usual mains feed, all the batteries were well charged and she started easily. The weather is warm with bright sun and clear blue skies. We took the turn towards Manchester and had a delightful cruise to Lymm. The Bridgwater is broad, deep, has no locks, and in this area, the countryside is very pretty. I suppose the landscape will change tomorrow as we get to the outskirts of Manchester.
A hand-operated crane to position stop planks, Daresbury
Cherry Blossom near Grappenhall
We like Lymm. We managed to moor up on the visitor moorings in the centre of the village and explore its environs before we shopped for provisions at the well-stocked local Spar. We explored the Dingle (gorge) which runs through the village. It was delightful in the spring sunshine. We also discovered the walk up to Lymm dam where there is a sizeable lake. Lymm has a plethora of pubs that even on a Monday appeared reasonably well frequented, unlike some of the Midlands pubs that have succumbed to the recession.
Lymm visitor moorings
Lymm village
Lymm Dam with church
Today, we didn't need to light the coal stove for the first time this trip. Tomorrow we plan to go across the Barton Swing Aqueduct to Worsley.