Quick Q, Bridgewater canal from ship canal to Edge Lane?

[I like Skol]

Short notice I know but I'm off for a ride with my 11yr old son in about 45 minutes and just spotted this as an alternative to the Trafford centre roads for the return leg.

Is the towpath for this stretch clean and suitable for a road bike that I don't really want splattering with mud?

All answers, good or bad, appreciated

 

[potsy]

Skud or 400bhp would probably know, bit late now I suppose.
I've only used the section from the TPT which goes past Sale and on towards Altrincham.

 

[I like Skol]

It was brilliant actually, tarmac with fine chippings on top, perfect for a best road bike. They are still surfacing a short stretch just before the canal jct where you can turn for M/cr or Stretford but luckily it was very dry.

Fantastic luck when we got to the ship canal. Just as I was explaining to Jnr about how the road bridge and the Bridgewater canal bridge swing around to allow ships along the ship canal it all swung in to action to demonstrate. We went up onto a handy footbridge view point and spent a pleasant 15-20 minutes in the warm sun watching it all happen and seeing the ship sail past, great timing

 

[400bhp]

They have just spent a load of money making it suitable for bikes. Sounds good. Next stop for junior, trip to the old fellas over in Swinton, c. 15 miles

 

[Banjo]

Stayed in the Boat and Anchor pub on the Bridgewater to Taunton canal recently. Walked a bit of the path and it all looked good. If over that way again will take the folder.