The Bridgewater Canal is very straight and has no locks - for the most part the scenery has little of interest but the rain was a deterrent to idle sight seeing!
By early afternoon we reach Stockton Heath where our information indicated that there was a Sainsbury store - it turned out only to be a 'Local' version so we went across the bridge over the Manchester Ship Canal to a Morrisons store to stock up for the next few days.
The day gradually improved although the wind meant that the exposed sections were difficult to navigate. At one point we were fourth in a closely formed line of boats - it seemed that those in front had the notion that going slowly meant that they could steer better. Of course, the only result was that they found it more difficult and tacked to and fro.
Much of the latter part of the Bridgewater seemd to be lined with moored boats - one private mooring occupied three quarters of a mile. In some popular areas, the quantity of permanent mooring canalside is fast becoming a major detriment to cruising. Owners of boats that are little more than weekend cottages are often unhappy that boats actually move on the canal!
After passing Preston Brook Junction we merged into the Trent and Mersey with a stop lock that raises the water level just a few inches (to control the flow of water). Perhaps it was the eventual emergence of sunshine and perhaps as a narrow canal, but the canal seemed much more scenic and, despite two short delays at the tunnels (which have timed phases for use in each direction), the was a general inclination to continue cruising for later than usual!
Since so much time was spent inside today, someone thought that, dear reader, you might like to see what the boat looks like!
Moored at Anderton but will take a better look in the morning!
