Waterways in Vale Royal

The River Weaver was straightened in the 18th century to form the Weaver Navigation, enabling larger boats to travel up to Winsford. Coal could then be cheaply imported and salt transported to Liverpool for export across the world.

The waterways are peaceful now and the colourful narrow boats are now used for pleasure not toil. What better way to explore than a trip on one of the regular cruise boats or by hiring a narrowboat? For further information on boat hire and cruising the waterways contact 01606 867531 or email tourism@valeroyal.gov.uk you can also visit the Weaver Valley Cruises website.

For riverside walking, try the Weaver Valley Way running along the riverside between Frodsham and Winsford, or a section of the Cheshire Ring Canal Walk.

The unique Anderton Boat Lift, located near Northwich and now fully restored, was built in 1875 to lift barges between the River Weaver and the Trent and Mersey Canal. A new Operations Centre houses educational and visitor facilities, for further information please visit the Anderton Boat Lift website.

Last modified: 5 January 2009