Ep 1. The Middlewich Branch - A Christmas Special

The Middlewich Branch - A Christmas Special is the first episode of season 3 of the show, Travels by Narrowboat. It follows married couple David and Sheila aboard their narrowboat, the "Narnia", as they embark on a festive journey along the Middlewich Branch canal.

The episode begins with David and Sheila preparing their boat for the winter season, fitting new chimney ropes and clearing out the stove. As they head off on their journey, they are immediately met with stunning scenery, with the canal surrounded by frost-covered trees and grass.

Their first stop is in the town of Middlewich, where they visit a traditional market and admire the stunning Christmas decorations. They take a stroll through the town and visit a local brewery where they sample some of the finest ales in the area.

As they continue their journey, they face challenges such as navigating through narrow locks and shallow water levels. But they take it all in their stride, sharing their knowledge and expertise with the audience along the way.

The couple also take some time to explore the history of the canal, visiting remnants of the old salt mines that once lined the canal. They learn about the importance of the Middlewich Branch canal and its role in transporting goods in the past.

The episode also features some light-hearted moments, with David and Sheila sharing stories and jokes as they make their way along the canal. They also show off their cooking skills as they prepare a Christmas feast on board the boat, complete with all the trimmings.

Overall, The Middlewich Branch - A Christmas Special is a heartwarming and educational episode of Travels by Narrowboat. It offers a glimpse into the unique and festive experience of cruising along a canal during the winter season, and highlights the importance of preserving the history and beauty of our canals and waterways.