Watch House Cruising Club

Watch House Cruising Club, WHCC-Ltd, was set up by boaters in 1964 to promote inland waterway cruising and encourage social interactions among members. 

 

The Watch House is leased from the Bridgewater Canal Company and is thought to be the oldest building in Stretford. It predates the canal itself and its name is thought to refer to its use as a look out point for any sign that the River Mersey was in flood so that local residents could be warned. It was also a farm building and has had a chequered history as stables for canal horses, as a coffin store, saddle manufacturing, cottages and now club premises.

 

Gradually the members have improved the building and upgraded the facilities.  

 

Watch House was the fifth club to join the Federation of Bridgewater Cruising Clubs and is relatively small with an average of 30 moored boats. It operates a full cruising programme throughout the year with many weekend cruises and attendance at the annual Rally with other clubs. There are also work parties and social events. 

 

When not out cruising, the clubroom and bar are open Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings 19.00-23.00 as well as Sunday afternoons 1.00-19.30 to all passing boaters, dog walkers, hikers and cyclists. 

 

Associate/social members are welcome for a small annual fee.

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Find out about moorings here