Launch in Adlington (south of Chorley) opposite White Bear Marine (just off A6). Paddle south (ie go right) and its about 5 miles of fields/ woods/ countryside, v.few fishermen/women and very quite. Pub at Red Rock and no locks (I think) until Wigan
Hi Joe
I have paddled that canal from the Leeds end from Rodley, it is a nice working canal and there are some lovely boats on it.
Do you live over on the NW?
The stretch of the Leeds Liverpool from Parbold to Appley Bridge locks is a nice picturesque paddle. The canal is tree lined on both sides and it follows the Douglas Valley with Parbold Hill rising on the left and Ashurst Beacon rising on the right. When you reach the locks it is worth portageing round them and then paddling into the cul-de-sac of the old locks for a brew stop. During the summer I used to take my butties and a book and have a read and perhaps a chat to passers-by before paddling the approx 45 mins back to Parbold.
FrankB
Further to my last post.
You could extend the Parbold to Appley Bridge Locks trip by putting in at the Ring O' Bells pub in Ring O' Bells Lane Lathom. This would give you about an extra 45 mins each way paddle to Parbold. On the way you pass a field where someone is building an ironage type roundhouse. By the next bridge there is a grassy area which is good for a brew stop but you have only paddled for about 10 mins by this time. A bit further along there is a low swing bridge which you may have to portage around. There are good views to the left across Central Lancahire towards Preston & Blackpool. There is also an hourly bus service during the daytime weekdays (not sure about weekend) from Parbold back to Ring O' Bells Lane for the less fit or very young not wanting to paddle all the way back.
Frank