Cheshire and North Wales have so much to offer. It is difficult to decide where to visit first. This itinerary gives the opportunity to discover and enjoy the region's waterways, illustrating the important part it has played in our nation's heritage.
Staying at the 4 star Mercure Abbotts Well Hotel on the outskirts of Chester. Situated in it’s lawned gardens and two miles from the centre of the city. Offering 126 comfortable bedrooms, open plan bar lounge to relax in, restaurant and leisure club including an indoor swimming pool. For those that may like to explore independently, the city’s Park and Ride service is located next to the hotel.
Begin the day the charming Roman city of Chester with a tranquil, 30 minute cruise on the River Dee including commentary. Take the rest of the morning to explore the pretty medieval streets and city walls at your own pace. After lunch, head to the Wirral Peninsula to award winning Ness Botanic Gardens, overlooking the Dee Estuary and the Welsh Hills, founded in 1898 by Arthur Kilpin Bulley, a cotton merchant with a passion for gardens and plant collecting.
A scenic day with a leisurely drive past Ruthin before travelling over the spectacular Horseshoe Pass to Llangollen. Enjoy time at leisure here before a short transfer to Froncysyllte to join a canal cruise on a brightly coloured narrowboat, where you will sail across the Pontcysllte Aqueduct, or 'Stream in the Sky', then through the beautiful Vale of Llangollen. An interesting commentary gives visitors an insight into the history of the area and other canals in the UK.
All aboard to Northwich for a ride on the magnificent Anderton Boat Lift. Originally built in 1875, the structure lifts passengers aboard the elegant Edwin Clark boat from the River Weaver to the Trent and Mersey Canal high above. An interesting visitor centre houses an exhibition focusing on the lift's history together with its control centre, so visitors can get close to the action. On then to the pleasant market town of Nantwich, before returning to the hotel via the lovely lakes at Ellesmere.
Your tour includes: 4 nights half board in Chester with full English breakfast and three course, choice dinner with tea and coffee. Porter Service. 30 minute Rover Dee Cruise. Admission to Ness Botanic Gardens. Ride on the Anderton Boat Lift. Canal Cruise across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. 5 days coach services.
