National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port → National Waterways Museum, turning at Eastham Locks 25th May 2026 | 10:00 – 11:00
Ellesmere Port was founded in 1795 with the completion of the Ellesmere Canal, linking the River Mersey to the national canal network. Originally known as Whitby Wharf, it grew around docks designed by William Jessop and Thomas Telford, before becoming a major industrial centre following the opening of the Manchester Ship Canal in 1894.
Just northwest of our departure point lies Mount Manisty, a prominent man-made hill formed from excavated material during the construction of the Manchester Ship Canal between 1887 and 1894. Named after Edward Manisty, the contractor’s agent for the Eastham section, it stands between the canal and the River Mersey near Eastham.
From Mount Manisty, the route reaches the final straight of the Manchester Ship Canal, with Eastham Locks visible on the west bank. Passing several historic berths, including the former Crane Berth, ships once had their masts and funnels removed here to pass under bridges further inland. Today, these berths remain in use for lay-by, cargo handling, and ship bunkering. We turn before the locks and head back to our berth at Telford Quay.
Easy transport :
We recommend parking at the National Waterways Museum car park, which is free of charge. Easily accessible by train, with a nearby station
Why not visit the Museum after your cruise
Ticket options
Would you like to select a bottle of Prosecco to enjoy on your cruise
Ellesmere Port was founded in 1795 with the completion of the Ellesmere Canal, linking the River Mersey to the national canal network. Originally known as Whitby Wharf, it grew around docks designed by William Jessop and Thomas Telford, before becoming a major industrial centre following the opening of the Manchester Ship Canal in 1894.
Just northwest of our departure point lies Mount Manisty, a prominent man-made hill formed from excavated material during the construction of the Manchester Ship Canal between 1887 and 1894. Named after Edward Manisty, the contractor’s agent for the Eastham section, it stands between the canal and the River Mersey near Eastham.
From Mount Manisty, the route reaches the final straight of the Manchester Ship Canal, with Eastham Locks visible on the west bank. Passing several historic berths, including the former Crane Berth, ships once had their masts and funnels removed here to pass under bridges further inland. Today, these berths remain in use for lay-by, cargo handling, and ship bunkering. We turn before the locks and head back to our berth at Telford Quay.
Easy transport :
We recommend parking at the National Waterways Museum car park, which is free of charge. Easily accessible by train, with a nearby station
Why not visit the Museum after your cruise
Our payments are processed using : PayPal
