City Centre Cruises Manchester Afternoon Tea #Review

City Centre Cruises: July 2016

Never have I walked down Liverpool road with so much excitement and anticipation knowing the upcoming nautical adventure that awaited. Approaching the barge we had to pace ourselves down the steps, as the temptation was there to run down them to be the first to board this fabulous vessel. There are two barge boats within their fleet both named after two prominent Manchester figures “Emmeline Pankhurst” the courageous suffragette leader and “LS Lowry” which was to be the barge that we would be sailing on that day. Captain Wilcock warmly welcomed us and the two crew members on board made us feel welcome from the offset.

Both the seating and Bar area were spacious, clean and comfortable. Happily, we got cosy, as the barge was to be our home for the next 2 ½ hours. The viewing point, that had a padded seated area and had standing room, allowed a fantastic vantage point in which to see the excitement of barge life. Clearly, more than a standard afternoon tea experience, seafaring legs were at the ready, grab your sailing hat, best foot forward, port out starboard home and get ready to set sail and cruise along the Manchester Canal system in style.

 

Along the journey learn about legendary legal disputes, the Guinness at dock 3, Guy Fawkes, why there are oxygen bubbles at dock 6, the historic link between Manchester and Canada’s canal system, the reason Yorkshire decided where lock 1 vs lock 92 would be situated and many more exciting punchy historic facts.   Importantly, the captain provides enough historic commentary without going overkill and the balance is perfect, as this allows for time to enjoy the afternoon tea and relaxing scenic Manchester views.

The Afternoon tea was delightful offering a fantastic selection of scrumptious savoury sandwiches, wraps and yummy mini quiches. Sweet delights included tasty mini cute cakes and the amazing mouth-watering scones served with generous helpings of fresh jam and cream. The China tea wares were cute, charming and quaint. Adding both character and an oldie worldly theme to the experience and this really did make it feel like a passage through time, but with a modern twist.

The three pictures featured were all taken from the comfort of my table that clearly had a great view and offer a visual taster insight into this unique and exciting experience. Picture three features a particularly exciting moment when the barge was lowered down, but I won’t tell you too much, as you must go and experience this fantastic marine adventure for yourself!

Thanks for reading 🙂

Melanie xx

City Centre Cruises Limited, 14 Falterley Road, Manchester. M23 9BR.

Office Hours Open Monday – Friday 10am – 5pm

http://www.citycentrecruises.com/

0161 902 0222

Their Main departure and return point is from the Bridgewater Canal beside The Castlefield Open Air Events Arena.  Based on Liverpool Road, Castlefield, Manchester.  M3 4JR