Anderton Boat Lift, Cheshire’s historic ‘Cathedral of Canals’ in Northwich, will be hosting two major public weekend events in May – a Steam Festival (7 & 8 May) and a 10K Run (Sunday 15 May).
Over the first weekend, more than a dozen historic traction engines and steam boats, including the award-winning 1903 Art Deco Daniel Adamson steamship, will be firing up and transporting visitors back to the heydays of the industrial age.
Organised by the Canal & River Trust charity, the event will be free to the public, allowing visitors the opportunity, not only to explore the world’s first boat lift, but also to marvel at the road vehicles and river vessels that played such a crucial role in the development of Victorian Britain.
The following Sunday 15 May, there will be a spectacle of a different kind as more than 350 runners set off from the Anderton Boat Lift at 9.30am on a 10K charity run, organised by the Running Bee Foundation. For those less active or just taking their first steps, there will be an opportunity to set a gentler pace by taking part in ‘My First Mile’.
Carly Graham, Canal & River Trust visitor services manager at Anderton Boat Lift, said: “This year we are celebrating the 20th anniversary of re-opening of the boat lift after a major restoration. As part of a season of special events, it is fabulous to welcome new visitors and old friends alike to enjoy these two special festivals at our stunning waterway Scheduled Monument.”
Entry to the Anderton Boat Lift grounds, visitor centre, shop and café are free but charges operate for one hour boat trips through the lift and along the River Weaver Navigation. It is advisable to book these in advance by ringing 01606 786777. For more information about visiting the boat lift and special events, go to https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/anderton-boat-lift-visitor-centre.
To sign up to the 10k run or My First Mile, visit the Running Bee website on https://www.runningbeefoundation.co.uk/events-calendar/
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