Saturday 5 August 2017

Chirk and Pontcysyllte Aqueducts!

Thursday 3 August -
 Giving us a little practise before the 'big one', our journey took us over Chirk Aqueduct which runs parallel to a railway viaduct. Once you leave the aqueduct, you enter Chirk Tunnel.  You have to ensure there are no boats coming through in the opposite direction through both Chirk and Whitehouse Tunnel before entering. We moored up outside  Chirk Marina which is useful as it has Elsan facilities (£2) and they have overnight mooring facilities if required. 


Friday  4 August -
 They day dawned bright and breezy and after cruising for about 45 minutes, passing through Whitehouse Tunnel and a single lift bridge, there is a sharp bend and then lo and behold, the canal disappears into the sky!

Yes, we have reached the engineering marvel that is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Nervous anticipation - but its too late as you navigate across the 1000ft narrow trough of iron plates.  Hold on tight as there is absolutely nothing between you and the 126ft drop to the River Dee running beneath the aqueduct.



The aqueduct was constructed 1795 - 1805.  There are limited but delightful moorings in Trevor Basin, plenty to explore where there is a visitors centre, café and pub . A 15-20 minute walk takes you to the village of Cefn- Mawr. Visit the old high street for a glimpse back in time. 
There is a large Tesco on the outskirts of the town. 

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