Where it all started

Tuesday started all wet and dismal, so, not an early getaway as far as we were concerned. 

When we did set off, we had the occasional shower but, on the whole, not a bad 3 hours cruising. 

We passed through Sale which, on the map, looks to be built up for the whole length. But in reality it was quite pleasant passing through wooded sections with the Metro running alongside the canal. 

This is the front of the Linotype factory where metal printing type was manufactured. 

The works are being demolished but the facade retained and a new housing estate will go in its place. 

Further along the canal, relatively new apartments in a 'modern' style. The houses on the Linotype site will be more sympathetic to the canal and the building that they replace. 

We next passed through Stretford and Trafford Park before crossing the Manchester Ship Canal. 

Shortly after we arrived at Worsley which is widely recognised as the place which triggered the 'canal age.' At Worsley the Duke of Bridgewater had extensive coal mines and the canal was built to transport the coal to Manchester. Later the canal was extended to meet the Trent & Mersey Canal at Preston Brook. 

A benefit to the Duke was that his mines could be drained into the canal but this caused a distinct discolouration of the water. 

We were amused by this 'lighthouse' by the canal. 

In Worsley there is much to be seen, including the Boathouse, built in 1851 to house the royal barge for Queen Victoria's visit in 1851. 

Also, The Packet House. 

If you peer closely at the picture you will just be able to see the old entrance to the mines. 

It is a low archway through which special boats would go into a network of 46 miles of tunnels. The rock from this area was also used for stonework along the banks of the canal. 

We shall be staying overnight here in Worsley and see what the weather has in store for tomorrow.