← All days outWeaver & woodland
Salt, water and woodland
Discover how salt shaped Northwich, see Anderton's engineering up close, then add a gentle woodland finish if you wish.
4–6 hours · suggested day
Getting between stops
A driving plan with walks at each stop: Marston, Northwich town centre, Anderton and optional Marbury. Car parks serve the visitor sites. Walking or cycling between sites needs a separately planned route and more time.
Timing, access & opening days
Duration and stop times are editorial suggestions; the overall day allows a town-centre meal and local transfers. Stop estimates exclude travel and meals. Make Lion Salt Works and Anderton the two main visits. As checked in September 2026, the lift is closed and the visitor centre does not open on Thursdays; Lion Salt Works normally closes on Mondays. Recheck both before choosing your day.
Your day, one stop at a time
1Lion Salt Works ↗
90–120 minutes suggested
Begin at Lion Salt Works in Marston to understand the industry behind the canals and surrounding landscape. Allow time for the restored buildings and displays before heading into Northwich for lunch.
Find this stop ↗
2Anderton Boat Lift ↗
60–90 minutes suggested
Continue to the visitor centre, exhibition and grounds beside the lift. This plan does not include a lift ride: the mechanism is closed. A separately booked river cruise is an alternative to the later park stop, subject to availability.
Find this stop ↗
3Marbury Country Park ↗
Optional · 45–75 minutes suggested
Optional finish: move on to Marbury for a short woodland or parkland stroll, choosing a route from the site information. Turn back whenever you wish; this is not a commitment to a long circuit.
Find this stop ↗
Leave time for a pause
After Lion Salt Works, break in Northwich town centre around High Street or Witton Street before continuing to Anderton. Keep Marbury optional if lunch turns into a longer wander.
Sources & checked details
Checked 2026-09-19. Opening, admission and access arrangements can change; check the official guide before travelling.
Lion Salt Works: visiting and directions ↗Canal & River Trust: Anderton visitor information ↗Canal & River Trust: lift reopening update ↗Council: Marbury Country Park access ↗Northwich Town Council: town-centre context ↗