Bridge Over Untroubled Waters
A leafy, pleasant walk alongside Bridgewater Canal. Take a gulp of fresh air, spot herons and swans, and learn a little about Worsley's industrial heritage.
The Route
You might be after a perfect romantic walk with flat paths all the way and a lot of peace and quiet to converse. Or, if like me, you're a solitary walker like myself, you want to reflect and practice your "I'm pondering deep mysterious thoughts" face. Maybe you're after a bit of light reading about the local industrial history, or want to practice some photography? This is the best walk for when you just want to get outdoors.
The peaceful side
From the village green, you walk up the road and cross the bridge, where you join the canal opposite the courthouse. Don't worry about any more directions, if you can't see the canal, you've gone the wrong way.
This early stretch is the best spot for seeing any birds. And you'll overlook RHS Bridgewater on your right.
Upon the moorings
Walking down, you'll come upon The Moorings. The canal is still in active use to this day. And here is a popular area for boats to stop. Here, you pass The Moorings pub, where you can stop to enjoy their beer garden.
You cross the bridge here, and turn back along the other side of the canal. You have the option to continue on, but the next ridge is a distance away, so just bear that in mind.
The historical side
This side of the river has a lot more historical information. There are plenty of benches, and each one has an attached plaque you can wilfully read or ignore at your pleasure.
I won't bore you with directions. It's a straight line, enjoy the walk.
Getting back
Returning to Worsley, you pass a lot of old industrial era buildings and equipment. Each view is beautiful, in every season. The walk brings you into Worsley Green, with a pub across the way. Or the Worsley Delph has another pub a short walk away.
Image Gallery
Getting to the start
Bus
Both the 33 and 35 buses serve the area from the city centre. It is also served by the 66 from the North of Manchester, and the 20 from the Trafford centre. All buses serving the area are on the Bee Network, which means cheap fares from all around Manchester.
Car
There are several pubs in the area providing parking, if you're happy to get a drink. The best spot is the village car park opposite the courthouse. It is pay and display, but is available all day every day.
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