WALKING | A Snowy Winter Canal Walk in Wheelton, Lancashire
During a weekend which saw much the UK blanketed in snow, we headed up to Leyland in Lancashire for a weekend break, and found ourselves completely by chance in an area that was almost totally free of snow.
Looking back from the top lock, towards Wheelton Boat Yard
Lock 59 in Wheelton, one of a series of 7 on the Leeds and Liverpool canal
As always the goal was relaxation tied in with exploring the local area on foot, and due to tales of travel gloom and mayhem, we were keen not to venture too far from the snow-free zone we were in.
A short drive away from our hotel took us to Wheelton, where along with an unexpected emergency trip to the physio and a delicious meal at the Top Lock, we went for a relaxd afternoon stroll beside the canal.
This stretch of the Leeds and Liverpool canal features a series of 7 locks in close proximiety to each other, known as the Johnsons Hillock flight.
As you can see from the photos, the light was stunning thanks to the low winter sun, cloudless skies and reflection of the bright white snow. I was also delighted to spot a kingfisher, though sadly didn’t have a good enough lens with me to capture the little fella.
Several sections of the canal were iced over
The simple joy of walking on a cold but bright and sunny winters day never gets old for me; there’s something so life affirming about hearing the crunch of snow underfoot and feeling the warmth of the winter sun on your face.