We set off early and after passing through the deep rock cutting arrived at the top of the three lock staircase. Not early enough in some respects, but because we were pleased to see a boat leaving the bottom lock leaving both lower locks ideally placed for a straightforward descent. Other wise we might have found ourselves first prepping them ourselves. There is only one paddle for each and the empty (or fill) very slowly. However the three locks were soon accomplished and turning the sharp corner at the bottom we found Tower Wharf. Indeed, as the guide book says, a lovely place to overnight, dog friendly (grassy banks) and a pleasant outlook. The locks leading down to the Dee were evident as was a covered dry dock and boatyard.
Moving on we eventually arrived at Ellesmere Port, much greener than expected. None of the heavy industry evident from the canal as we had surmised. The Museum was much larger in extent than we had imagined with much to see in the various basins. It has been pleasantly landscaped and looks very clean and tidy. The buildings have been well restored and there are many exhibits as one might expect. Perhaps the ony criticism is that there is not enough by way of interpretation boards for some of the more technical items. I still don't know exactly how a Bolinder semi-diesel works for example.
After lunch we turned and retraced our path to a lonely mooring with decent grass bank in warm sunshine and with good wind. The wind generator is happy.
Comments