River Weaver – Runcorn Rowing Club to Dutton Locks by John Vogler
(Approximately 11.5 miles for the return trip)
Having never been on the Weaver before this proved to be a very nice day out on flat water in generally scenic surroundings, Leaving Runcorn and passing under the M56 and then an interesting swing bridge at Sutton the river quickly becomes rural and the countryside could be almost anywhere in England. Towards Dutton you pass under a long Victorian railway viaduct which carries main line traffic from Runcorn. Dutton Locks are a stopping point and there are picnic facilities and easy egress at river left just before the lock. The Canal and River trust provide this with a rubber-lined landing and a set of steps to a footpath.
The put on and off at Runcorn Rowing Club is easy to use with a lot of parking at the rear of the club houses. There were a number of flat-water racers training on the river and some rowing sculls and everybody was friendly.
A key point to note is that access to Runcorn Rowing Club (Cholmondeley Road, Runcorn –post code WA7 4XT) is only from the northbound carriageway of the A557. There used to be a roundabout, it appears, but no longer. Our old sat nav became horribly confused and sent us off in the direction of Manchester therafter urging us to go round in circles.
Apart from this, the Weaver provides a relaxing local paddle which is every bit as good as a trip down the Dee from Chester.
John Vogler
