From Middlewich the Trent & Mersey Canal runs Northwards and, just south of Preston Brook Tunnel, it becomes the Bridgewater Canal at Dutton Stop Lock. The Bridgewater is claimed to be the first canal to be built in England and was constructed in 1671 by the Duke of Bridgewater to carry coal from his mines at Worsley to Manchester.

The canal extends from Preston Brook to the centre of Manchester and north of the tunnel is the arm to Runcorn that originally linked with the Mersey. The canal runs through the attractive village of Moore and then through the more built-up area around Stockton Heath then Grappenhall which retains a village atmosphere with its old buildings and cobbled streets.

A little further on is the charming town of Lymm and countryside then follows as the canal runs towards Sale and the outskirts of Manchester. At Bridge 42 is the Leigh arm of the Bridgewater that travels through Worsley and forms a link with the Leeds and Liverpool Canal.

Continuing on the main line the Bridgewater then passes Castlefield Junction, with useful moorings and terminates at Dulcie Street Junction where the waterway becomes the Ashton Canal. As in many city areas, care should be taken in choosing a mooring and the Castlefield Junction is an ideal spot from which to explore the shopping, pubs, restaurants and cultural facilities that the city offers.