Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre

We are pleased to announce that the grounds and takeaway is now open - Saturdays and Sundays from 10.00am to 4.00pm.

Keep an eye on this page and social media for updates on the visitor centre reopening and boat trips restarting in the summer. 

Winner of experience of the year 2019 – The Anderton Boat Lift has earnt its nickname of Cathedral of the Canals for a very good reason. Not only does it still do the job it was designed to do of lifting boats and barges the 50 feet from the River Weaver Navigation to the Trent & Mersey Canal, but it does it with the most ingenious and endearing character of any structure on the canal system.

The mighty Anderton Boat Lift is one of the 'Seven Wonders of the Waterways' and together with its visitor centre, coffee shop, brand new Let's Play play area and nearby Northwich Woodlands, make a visit unmissable. 

We welcome assistance animals across the centre, but pets are only allowed on the viewing area at the top basin, accessed by the side gate.

Things to do and see in Cheshire

By car - the car park is managed by Cheshire & West Chester Council.  

1 April to 30 September 9:00 - 20:00

1 October to 31 March 9:00 - 17:00

There's a charge and you can pay both by cash and card:

• £2 for up to three hours
• £3 all day
• Free for coaches - please call 01606 786777 to book your coach in advance to make sure parking is available

By train - Northwich Station is the nearest at a 15 minute taxi ride away. Visit National Rail enquiries for train timetable details and prices

By bus - regular buses run to and from Northwich. Call Cheshire West & Chester Council Travel Line on 0871 200 22 33 for timetable and fare details

By bike - download the heritage cycle trail leaflet and map

Sadly, pets are only permitted on the viewing area at the top basin, however assistance animals are welcome.