Ellesmere Port to Chester Canal Walk

8.9 miles (14.4 km)

This walk follows a section of the Shropshire Union Canal from Ellesmere Port to Chester. The route runs for about 9 miles, heading south towards Stoak and Backford Bridge before finishing in Chester near the cathedral.
The waterside walk follows the northern end of the Shropshire Union Canal through the Cheshire countryside, combining peaceful canal scenery with the historic surroundings of two very different destinations.... The route begins near the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port, where the canal's links with Britain's industrial heritage are brought to life through historic boats, docks and restored buildings.
Leaving Ellesmere Port, the towpath soon enters a quieter landscape of farmland, woodland and waterways, passing through the rural surroundings of Stoak and Backford. The canal here is characterised by traditional bridges, locks and wide stretches of open water, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including swans, herons, kingfishers and other wetland birds.
The walk finishes in Chester, one of England's most historic cities. The canal leads close to the city centre, where you can explore the famous Roman amphitheatre, medieval city walls, the cathedral, the Rows shopping galleries and a wide range of cafés, pubs and restaurants.