This time last year we embarked on our first short break canal holiday from Trevor aboard "Merlin". What a great introduction to narrowboating! We headed across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct within the first 10 minutes (don't look down ).
Based on our timings, Ellesmere is within easy reach and your may make as far as the winding hole near Blake Mere before having to turn for home . If you have the time, the branch from Prees Junction to Whixall Marina is a great escape from the main cut but this would need lots of hours at the tiller.
Do not underestimate the speed of flow on the return journey, somewhere around 1-2 mph against you and possibly more through the tunnels! We got shouted at by a "volunteer boat" for going too slow! (Everyone else was friendly).
We chose to drive into Lllangollen after leaving the boat rather than use a day getting there and back. Either way the Lllangollen is wonderful.... if in doubt, flip a coin.
We're heading for the Cheshire Ring in September, can't wait.