Boating along the River Weaver

The river is once again becoming a popular cruising waterway following the reopening of the Anderton Boat Lift. For most visiting boats, access will be via the lift rather than the connection with the Manchester Ship Canal at the northern end.

Though the Anderton Lift stands beside Northwich's enormous chemical plants, much of the River Weaver is rural and well suited to unhurried cruising. Winsford Flashes, at the upstream head of navigation, are lakes whose existence owes everything to this industry. Two thousand years of salt-mining has caused the ground to subside, filling with water and creating the flashes. They are found all over this part of Cheshire - even the comparatively recent Trent & Mersey Canal has them - but Winsford's are the grandest.

Bridge & lock opening times

Find detailed information on local services, moorings and stoppages by using the drop down menu on the left.