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
A great afternoon was had today with my missus in my old town disco from top lock (Wheelton) to the boat yard (Riley Green). Parking at either end, or both as we did with a car at both ends, bit of a shuttle to drop and pick up. We chained the boat up to a bench at the boat yard whilst we went back to top lock to bring the mondildo back and load the battleship back on. the second vehicle is a Bongo and needs three six footers to van top. Nice saturday winter paddle. 3.5 miles, no ice and a pub at both ends, oxtail soup or real ale. John and Mac