After a smooth flight & ride I have arrived in the UK, again in the sunny month of August, to continue my E8 towards the east. My confidence in the weather forecast is of such a magnitude that I did not bring a rain coat for this week that I will be spending in England.

I arrive at 06:15 at the Warrington Bank Quai railway station and I walk to my starting point. In the first kilometers, along the canal, there are many signs which confuse me at some point. After 6km the trail uses and old railway track, it is very easy to walk, it goes straight ahead and it’s flat.

former railway tracks

There are many people here enjoying being outdoors (walking, jogging, cycling), but I don’t identify anyone who could be a long distance hiker. Although the track is situated a little bit higher than the surrounding fields, which are very flat, there is no view as the sides of the track are completely covered with bushes and trees. After 16km, near Broadheath, the fun is over and the trail follows some busy local roads for some time. After that the next kilometers are crossing some woods; just like back home many trees have started to change color and loose their leaves, due to the drought in the past months.

after a dry summer

Next highlight of the day is when the River Mersey is reached. For many kilometers the meandering river is being followed; it’s lovely but a bit boring after some time.

River Mersey

At three sections along the river the trail is closed due to road construction work. They do a very nice job, I tell the guys when I pass them, but there are no deviations indicated. Fortunately I am using a Garmin (for the first time) and I get back to the trail without a problem. Along the river my finish for today, Stockport, is reached without problem. The weather is nice and sunny, and not too warm. The trail passes my hotel at less than 50 meters. This first day of the trip was nice and easy.