Of course those that know lock 13 is the stop lock on the Macclesfield canal.
What a different day, would you believe all but one of the 17 locks today were in our favour, either empty of a boat descending. The only one set against us was the stop lock on the Macclesfield.
The weather was cold until the afternoon but then the wind arrived with the sun but it didn't rain. We stopped just before Red Bull services for food and took a decision to keep to plan A which is the Macclesfield and Lower Peak Forest all being well.
We set off at 10.20 am this morning ready for the remainder of the Cheshire flight. There is a big difference in the state of the first or last 16 locks from the tunnel end. They are in better condition and the top gates hardly leak. We spotted this 'load' which I presume will be for at least one lock on the flight this winter.
There are a few nice lock side cottages on this stretch
Thankfully quite uneventful with us passing a good mix of holiday boats and private boats, without the rain all in good spirits.
We came under the Macclesfield aqueduct before meeting a holiday boat moored on the lock landing just next to a fallen tree - they did apologise as a lady came out and reversed the boat so Rachel could ease around.
Under the aqueduct
Not ideal
Last came here on 13th August 2008 then with a target of Buxworth Basin - we never made it. With my Mum and her partner Ross.
Over the Aqueduct
The turn onto the Macc was done with much more finesses by Rachel than my turn at Barbridge junction. We motored up past some nice visitor mooring at bridge 95 we may use on our return for an overnight before the tunnel. Then up to the very tight stop lock approach. Mooring just after on the 2 day moorings. We have a train line which I don't mind at all and in a bit of a cutting but good internet by Vodaphone.
Tomorrow its north and with good fortune get above Bosley locks.
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