Two canals meet without a fuss

We have enjoyed being on the Bridgewater Canal with its history and contrasts. When it came to leave as we travelled the Leigh Branch it would again be easy to miss where it meets with the Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Leigh Branch!).

According to BW the two canals meet at Leigh Bridge (11)Leigh Bridge

The welcome signL and L welcome

The Bridge numbers just go from Mather Lane Bridge (65) on the Bridgewater to Leigh Bridge (11). However it takes a while for the character of the canal to change.

Plank Lane Swing Bridge, now a lift bridge, has been a problem in the past. it is actually the site of an old lock - that subsidence problem again!

Plank Lane Bridge lifts for usPlank Lane Bridge

At Dover Bridge (4) there are two more defunct locks. The first just under the bridge and the second a few yards further on.

Evidence of gates at Dover LocksDefunct Dover Lock

Two more locks at Poolstock and we turned onto the Leeds and Liverpool Main Line and into Henhurst Lock (86)

Have a look at the different paddle and gate gear!Henhurst lock gear

The BW dry dock at Wigan Bottom Lock was empty, but for hire!Bottom Lock and dry dock

The Orwell at Wigan Pier, an old cotton warehouseThe Orwell

I cannot make my mind up whether it was closed for good or not. However it is a bit of history along with the restored Coal Staithe.

Pagefield and Elm Meadow Locks are alongside Wigan Athletics football ground and waste ground with the River Douglas running alongside.

Pagefield and Ell Meadow LocksPagefield Lock
Ell Meadow Lock

Right on the outskirts of Wigan, at Grimshaw's Bridge, there is an attractive marina and the village of Crooke.

Marina reflectionsMarina at Grimshaw's bridge

Gathurst was our mooring for the night and as you know the internet signal was lousy - hence this recap!

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