Big Locks, Broad Canal

Today we finished the middlewich branch and turned onto the Shropshire Union proper at Barbridge Junction. Back on to a broad canal after weeks of narrow gauge boating. Stopping off briefly at Calveley way station for a shower, the best we've come across yet. Then on to our first big lock. The two tier staircase lock at Bunbury.




We felt a little lost all by ourselves in a big lock chamber.



The sun was out this morning and I think it went to our heads or our wardrobe at least. ORANGE pants ! and, god forbid, SHORTS !!!!!!




We passed through a very unusual lock under the shadow of Beeston castle. It's lined in cast iron. To combat the shifting sandy soil into which it was cut.

We are now moored up somewhere between the back end of beyond and nowhere in particular. All I can tell is that it's six miles south east of Chester. Where we'll be tomorrow.