How to get there - From Junction 10 on the M56 head southwest on Tarporley Rd/A49 toward Hall Ln. Continue to follow A49 for 4.2 miles. After crossing the canal you will pass Davenports Farm Shop on the right. Pass one road on the right and at then turn right just befor the white superstructure of Acton Bridge.
You will need to shuttle a car to or arrange a pick-up at the Runcorn Canoe Club at SJ526796. For those with SatNav the postcode is WA7 4XT.
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Suggested Launch Site - Launch over the bank.
General
Description - 1. Progressing from Acton Bridge, follow open farm land for 1.5km to Dutton Lock, the last lock on the Trail. Follow the river round to the left avoiding the sluice gate. As you approach the lock and lock keepers house, exit at the low grass bank on the right - this is the portage point. At this location there are two options:
a. Follow the path past the house and to the grass below the lock. Head down the steps and at the end of the grass the wall becomes lower. Enter the river here.
b. At the top of the lock there is a return journey to Acton Bridge and Anderton via the canal. To follow this trail, follow the road away from the house and over the sluice bridge. As the road bends to the right there is a footpath up and along a field to join the canal. This may require a trolley for heavy boats and is a 500m portage. At the canal head right to Acton Bridge.
2. The Trail continues beyond the lock for about 6km along open farm land to a junction. Take the right channel and progress past a weir. There is then a series of 3 bridges. The end of the Trail is at the Canoe Club after the third bridge. Exit on the right bank outside the boat house. Car access is at the end of the track. If the Club is open there may be a chance to access the toilets.