Get set for a colourful spectacle of boats gathering in Cheshire this Easter, marking the official start of the boating season.
This will be the 42nd Easter Boat Gathering, continuing a grand tradition. The event will be taking place at the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port, which is run by the Canal & River Trust.
Tens of boats will be mooring up across the museum’s seven-acre site. While boaters catch up on news, museum visitors can stroll along the waterside, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a rare chance to get up close to beautiful historic vessels, lovingly restored by dedicated owners.
Music is an integral part of canal heritage and plays a major part in the long weekend, with some of the finest folk artists performing at this year’s event. Radio 2 Folk Award winners Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar will headline Saturday night.
Throughout the weekend, the museum will welcome back Phil Underwood, who draws on the waterways rich musical heritage for his inspiration. The Shropshire Boatmen will tell waterways stories in song, while Graham Bellinger will return with his wide repertoire of tales in tune. They will be joined by The Old Firm, The Hungry Horse Folk Club, The Raven Folk Club and family favourite David Gibbs.
As well as the boats and the music, the Easter Boat Gathering will feature inspirational workshops tours and museum activities for all ages.
When: 19th – 22nd April 2019
Where: National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire CH65 4FW
£: Museum annual passes cost £9.75 for adults, £8.50 for concessions and £6 for 6-15 year olds. Under-fives go free
More info: canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/national-waterways-museum
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