Beeston Castle

As planned we set off this morning on our excursion to Beeston Castle. The walk began with a fairly gentle slope upwards from the canal towards the village of Beeston, increasing in gradient the closer we got. On reaching the castle we had a quick drink at the cafe outside the perimeter wall, before we commenced the really steep climb to the top.

       

                          Entrance to Beeston Castle grounds managed by English Heritage.

       

       

  

       

       

       

      

Beeston Castle was built circa 1220 following the crusades. It remained complete as a castle and played a role during the English civil war, until it was partially demolished on the instructions of Oliver Cromwell to prevent further use as a stronghold.

       

                          Views across the Cheshire Plain towards Chester 10 miles away.

       

                                         Looking towards the Welsh Hills on the horizon.

As can be seen in some of the photos, today we had lots of blue sky and plenty of sunshine. The walk back to the boat had two substantial benefits. Firstly it was all downhill. Secondly the route back took us past the Shady Oak P.H. a venue we had visited before so we popped in again, this time for a late lunch. 

       

                                       Looking back at the castle from the Shady Oak.

It was then a slow stroll back along the towpath and a pleasant afternoon watching the boat traffic from the Middlewich Festival pass by. Tomorrow we plan to move off and following a brief visit to Tattenhall Marina for services we aim to stop near to Egg Bridge at Waverton.