Discover the Historic Manchester Ship Canal
Explore the scenic Manchester Ship Canal, a historic waterway connecting Manchester to the sea, perfect for walks, bike rides, and boat tours.
The Manchester Ship Canal is a remarkable feat of engineering that transformed the city into a bustling port. This scenic waterway, stretching over 36 miles, is not only a gateway for vessels but also a perfect spot for leisurely walks, boat tours, and picturesque views of Manchester's industrial heritage. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere while learning about the canal's rich history, making it a must-visit for any traveler.
A brief summary to Manchester Ship Canal
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Local tips
- Consider taking a boat tour for a unique perspective of the canal and its history.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the water, as there are many lovely spots along the canal.
- Check local schedules for any events or festivals that may be happening along the canal.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the canal may involve a good amount of walking or cycling.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving to the Manchester Ship Canal, start by heading towards the M56 motorway. From Chester, take the M56 towards Manchester. Once on the M56, merge onto the M6 North towards Birmingham. After a short distance, take the A57(M) exit towards Manchester City Centre. Follow signs for the A635(M) and then exit onto Deansgate. Continue straight, and you will find signs leading you to the Manchester Ship Canal area. There are parking options available near the canal, so plan to park accordingly.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Manchester Ship Canal via public transportation, start by locating your nearest railway station in Cheshire. Take a train towards Manchester Piccadilly. Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly, exit the station and follow signs for the Metrolink tram service. Board a tram on the Altrincham line and get off at Cornbrook station. From there, it is a 15-minute walk to the Manchester Ship Canal. Head towards the riverside by following the signs for the canal, and you will soon find yourself at this scenic landmark.
Discover more about Manchester Ship Canal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Golden Gates
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Norton Water Tower
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The Sankey Viaduct (Nine Arches)
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Sussex Road
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Taylor Park
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Eleanor Rigby Gravesite
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Sussex Close
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Barton Swing Aqueduct
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Chester Attractions Partnership
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Mesnes Park, Wigan
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St Barnabas Penny Lane
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12 Arnold Grove
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Unmissable attractions to see
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River Mersey
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Warrington Museum & Art Gallery
2.0 km
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Moore Nature Reserve
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Grappenhall Heys Walled Garden
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Lewis Carroll Centre
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Lewis Carroll Centenary Wood
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Norton Priory Museum & Gardens
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Lymm Heritage Centre (Legh St)
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Victoria Park Widnes
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Essential places to dine
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Cock O’ Budworth
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Restaurant Next Door
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The English Restaurant
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The Goshawk
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Vale Royal Abbey Arms
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Bells of Peover
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The Fishpool Inn
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Dun Cow
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The Wheel Restaurant
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Fat Olive Restaurant
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Spire
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Cheshire & Hampton Vintage Emporiums @ Lady heyes (SHOPS)
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Twisted Earth
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Quirky Cute Boutique
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The Penny Lane Shopping Centre
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Reflex & Babylon
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Aura
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