Cruise at your leisure through unspoilt countryside through picturesque villages and towns with the historic city of Chester or the boat museum at Ellesmere Port as your turning point, or Nantwich if you want a more leisurely trip.
These route suggestions are offered in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. It is up to you to decide on your own stops and to ensure you return to the base at the agreed time.
we recommend you also check for current stoppages on the CRT website that may affect your choice of route
Charming village with 13th Century Church and interesting Gothic style speedwell Castle.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 14, Click for Route Map.
A dog and family friendly canal side pub. Food served daily.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 14, Click for Route Map.
Handy store for provisions
A small village in Staffordshire, England about 9 miles (14 km) south west of Stafford.
A great range of real-ales, hand picked wines and contemporary cocktails. We serve a traditional comfort style pub menu complimented by daily specials which you can enjoy in a more traditional restaurant area, in the bar or overlooking the canal in our all weather beer garden.
Dogs welcome.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Small Shop but stocks a wide range of goods. Also doubles as a post office.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Great Spar and well stocked, friendly and welcoming staff.
Not too far from the canal and located in the centre of the village opposite the lovely little square.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Dog friendly Marston's Sport's Pub, about half a mile from the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
A village in Staffordshire handy for the amenities it offers to passing boaters.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Boat Inn Bridge (34), Click for Route Map.
The Boat Inn is a proper local, with great beer, a cosy atmosphere, real fires, delicious homemade food and classic pub grub.
And we love dogs as much as people!
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Boat Inn Bridge (34), Click for Route Map.
Convenience Store close to the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Boat Inn Bridge (34), Click for Route Map.
The Navigation Inn is a charming village pub and restaurant with a large beer garden with beautiful canalside views, perfect for Al fresco dining in the summer. Our lovely team are ready to welcome you and make your visit a memorable one!
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Gnosall Bridge (35), Click for Route Map.
Kebabs, Fish & Chips
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Gnosall Bridge (35), Click for Route Map.
Home-cooked food, local ales and idyllic canal side views. We allow well behaved dogs, kept on a lead in our bar and beer garden.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
Canalside pub
As well as a good selection of cask ales and beers, global wines and a variety of spirits, we offer traditional home cooked meals, made with fresh ingredients sourced locally. Bookings by telephone only. PLEASE NOTE DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED INSIDE THE PUB.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Goldstone Bridge (55), Click for Route Map.
Pretty town of half-timbered buildings, handsome church.
Market Day Wednesday: Early Closing Thursday.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Newcastle Road Bridge (62), Click for Route Map.
The Red Lion, Joule's flagship Brewery Tap, adjoins the Brewery itself. The pub dates back to 1623 and has been sympathetically restored to encompass the new Brewery which has been built on a half-acre site behind the ancient pub.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Berrisford Canal Aqueduct, Click for Route Map.
Small supermarket hand for provisions.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 62, Click for Route Map.
A mooring in the countryside above the top lock of the Audlem flight (15 locks).
Location: On Google Maps
A village in Cheshire and a significant canal location with it's flight of 15 locks and associated architecture.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Traditional Inn & Dining, named after the "Fly Boats" that used to work non-stop on the canal delivering urgent cargos. Family and pet friendly.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
A Marston's "Sky Sports" pub next to the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
Handy shop close to the canal for topping up your provisions.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Indian takeaway close to the canal, with online ordering.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
A freehouse where you you can expect a warm welcome, wonderful wine and fine food.
We are dog friendly in the bar area and have dog treats for your furry friends!
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Traditional Fish & Chips shop
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Hidden deep in the Cheshire countryside, the bunker stayed secret for more than 50 years. Now the blast doors are open and you can discover the labyrinth of rooms and authentic equipment used to run this defence region in the event of a National Emergency.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Burrows Bridge (85), Click for Route Map.
One of England's loveliest market towns, with half-timbered buildings and narrow winding streets.
Of special interest - Parish Church considered "The Cathedral of South Cheshire" for its size, beauty, fabulous wood and stone carvings, contemporary needlework and lovely glass.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
16th Century timbered town house. Open to view.
Churche's Mansion was built in 1577 for a wealthy merchant and remains in wonderful condition with many original features. It is Grade I Listed, with a wealth of history to enjoy both inside and out. It is very rare for a merchant's house to have survived in such original condition for over 430 years.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
The fascinating history of one of Cheshire's most attractive and historic towns is brought to life by Nantwich Museum.
Located in Pillory Street, at the heart of the town, the museum has main galleries telling the story of Nantwich through the ages - Roman salt making, Tudor Nantwich's Great Fire, the Civil War Battle of Nantwich (1644) and the more recent shoe and clothing industries.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
A Jacobean house built in 1616, with beautifully-plastered ceilings, oak panelling and woodland garden.Open from April to end of October Tuesdays and Bank Holiday
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Enjoy our historic pub by the canal with a large beer garden, dog-friendly atmosphere, and a warm interior. Perfect for family gatherings, casual drinks, and local events
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Fish and Chips shop
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Friendly local pub showing all live sports, dog friendly and fantastic homemade food.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Large Chain Supermarket
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Large chain supermarket
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Restored 17th Century Watermill
Bunbury Mill is a beautifully restored water mill standing in two acres of wildlife rich countryside.
Now owned by a village trust the mill has been re-opened and given a fresh lease of life creating the perfect place for people of all ages to visit.
The mill is open on Sunday afternoons and for pre-arranged group or school visits.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 105, Click for Route Map.
13th Century fortress scene of battle in time of Henry II and twice during Civil War
Many interesting stories attaching to the well - explored to 360' depth in search of King Richard II's treasure - searches made in 1842 and 1935. Panoramic view
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 108 footpath, Bridge 109 road, Click for Route Map.
The Shady is a beautiful canalside country pub nestled on The Shropshire Union Canal. With stunning views of, and short walks to both Beeston and Peckforton Castles, this pub is one of Cheshire's best known and much-loved destinations.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bate's Mill Bridge (109), Click for Route Map.
Traditional country inn offering a pub with a restaurant and a beer garden, plus casual, warm rooms.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Towpath moorings outside, Click for Route Map.
Handy shop a short walk from the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pepper Street Bridge (122), Click for Route Map.
Relaxed pub and conservatory dining on British favourites, pizza and salads, plus regular events.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pepper Street Bridge (122), Click for Route Map.
Royal City founded by the Romans and celebrating over 1900 years of history
Chester has a number of mediaeval buildings, but some of the black-and-white buildings within the city centre are actually Victorian restorations. Chester is one of the best preserved walled cities in Britain. Apart from a 100-metre (330 ft) section, the listed Grade I walls are almost complete.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Chester Cathedral has a rich and fascinating heritage.
The cathedral is a Grade I listed building, and part of a heritage site that also includes the former monastic buildings to the north, also listed Grade I. The cathedral, typical of English cathedrals in having been modified many times, dates from between 1093 and the early 16th century, although the site itself may have been used for Christian worship since Roman times. All the major styles of English medieval architecture, from Norman to Perpendicular, are represented in the present building.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
For swimming, gym etc.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Large chain supermarket, right next to the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
Canalside bar and restaurant hosting live music and arts venue, serving real ales plus pub grub.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Towpath Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Chester Zoo is one of the world's top zoos, and the UK's number one wildlife attraction.
It was opened in 1931 by George Mottershead and his family, who used as a basis some animals reported to have come from an earlier zoo in Shavington. It is one of the UK's largest zoos with a total land holding of approximately 400 acres (160 ha).
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 134, Click for Route Map.
With its stunning location on the banks of the Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal, extensive in-door displays, boat trips and historic buildings, the museum makes a great family day out in Cheshire, where time slows down and history comes to life.
There's so much to explore from the handsome Victorian buildings, which house the museum's displays, to the locks and moorings vibrant with historic and visiting narrow boats. With a year-round events calendar featuring everything from beer festivals to historic boat rallies, there's always a reason to visit.
Designed by Thomas Telford under the direction of William Jessop, the docks at Ellesmere Port were still in use as late as the 1950s. They were a marvellously self-contained world and when you visit the museum today you can still walk round its locks, docks and warehouses and visit its forge, stables and workers cottages.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: The port itself!, Click for Route Map.
A family run pub with great beer at amazing prices, a good atmosphere and friendly locals + TNT SPORTS
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
Chester Zoo is one of the world's top zoos, and the UK's number one wildlife attraction.
It was opened in 1931 by George Mottershead and his family, who used as a basis some animals reported to have come from an earlier zoo in Shavington. It is one of the UK's largest zoos with a total land holding of approximately 400 acres (160 ha).
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 134, Click for Route Map.
Royal City founded by the Romans and celebrating over 1900 years of history
Chester has a number of mediaeval buildings, but some of the black-and-white buildings within the city centre are actually Victorian restorations. Chester is one of the best preserved walled cities in Britain. Apart from a 100-metre (330 ft) section, the listed Grade I walls are almost complete.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Chester Cathedral has a rich and fascinating heritage.
The cathedral is a Grade I listed building, and part of a heritage site that also includes the former monastic buildings to the north, also listed Grade I. The cathedral, typical of English cathedrals in having been modified many times, dates from between 1093 and the early 16th century, although the site itself may have been used for Christian worship since Roman times. All the major styles of English medieval architecture, from Norman to Perpendicular, are represented in the present building.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
For swimming, gym etc.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Large chain supermarket, right next to the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
Relaxed pub and conservatory dining on British favourites, pizza and salads, plus regular events.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pepper Street Bridge (122), Click for Route Map.
Handy shop a short walk from the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pepper Street Bridge (122), Click for Route Map.
Traditional country inn offering a pub with a restaurant and a beer garden, plus casual, warm rooms.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Towpath moorings outside, Click for Route Map.
The Shady is a beautiful canalside country pub nestled on The Shropshire Union Canal. With stunning views of, and short walks to both Beeston and Peckforton Castles, this pub is one of Cheshire's best known and much-loved destinations.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bate's Mill Bridge (109), Click for Route Map.
13th Century fortress scene of battle in time of Henry II and twice during Civil War
Many interesting stories attaching to the well - explored to 360' depth in search of King Richard II's treasure - searches made in 1842 and 1935. Panoramic view
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 108 footpath, Bridge 109 road, Click for Route Map.
Restored 17th Century Watermill
Bunbury Mill is a beautifully restored water mill standing in two acres of wildlife rich countryside.
Now owned by a village trust the mill has been re-opened and given a fresh lease of life creating the perfect place for people of all ages to visit.
The mill is open on Sunday afternoons and for pre-arranged group or school visits.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 105, Click for Route Map.
One of England's loveliest market towns, with half-timbered buildings and narrow winding streets.
Of special interest - Parish Church considered "The Cathedral of South Cheshire" for its size, beauty, fabulous wood and stone carvings, contemporary needlework and lovely glass.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
16th Century timbered town house. Open to view.
Churche's Mansion was built in 1577 for a wealthy merchant and remains in wonderful condition with many original features. It is Grade I Listed, with a wealth of history to enjoy both inside and out. It is very rare for a merchant's house to have survived in such original condition for over 430 years.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
The fascinating history of one of Cheshire's most attractive and historic towns is brought to life by Nantwich Museum.
Located in Pillory Street, at the heart of the town, the museum has main galleries telling the story of Nantwich through the ages - Roman salt making, Tudor Nantwich's Great Fire, the Civil War Battle of Nantwich (1644) and the more recent shoe and clothing industries.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
A Jacobean house built in 1616, with beautifully-plastered ceilings, oak panelling and woodland garden.Open from April to end of October Tuesdays and Bank Holiday
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Public Moorings, Click for Route Map.
Enjoy our historic pub by the canal with a large beer garden, dog-friendly atmosphere, and a warm interior. Perfect for family gatherings, casual drinks, and local events
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Fish and Chips shop
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Friendly local pub showing all live sports, dog friendly and fantastic homemade food.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Large Chain Supermarket
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Large chain supermarket
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Visitor moorings on the embankment, Click for Route Map.
Hidden deep in the Cheshire countryside, the bunker stayed secret for more than 50 years. Now the blast doors are open and you can discover the labyrinth of rooms and authentic equipment used to run this defence region in the event of a National Emergency.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Burrows Bridge (85), Click for Route Map.
A village in Cheshire and a significant canal location with it's flight of 15 locks and associated architecture.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Traditional Inn & Dining, named after the "Fly Boats" that used to work non-stop on the canal delivering urgent cargos. Family and pet friendly.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
A Marston's "Sky Sports" pub next to the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
Handy shop close to the canal for topping up your provisions.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Indian takeaway close to the canal, with online ordering.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
A freehouse where you you can expect a warm welcome, wonderful wine and fine food.
We are dog friendly in the bar area and have dog treats for your furry friends!
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Traditional Fish & Chips shop
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Audlem Bridge (78), Click for Route Map.
Pretty town of half-timbered buildings, handsome church.
Market Day Wednesday: Early Closing Thursday.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Newcastle Road Bridge (62), Click for Route Map.
The Red Lion, Joule's flagship Brewery Tap, adjoins the Brewery itself. The pub dates back to 1623 and has been sympathetically restored to encompass the new Brewery which has been built on a half-acre site behind the ancient pub.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Berrisford Canal Aqueduct, Click for Route Map.
Small supermarket hand for provisions.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 62, Click for Route Map.
As well as a good selection of cask ales and beers, global wines and a variety of spirits, we offer traditional home cooked meals, made with fresh ingredients sourced locally. Bookings by telephone only. PLEASE NOTE DOGS ARE NOT ALLOWED INSIDE THE PUB.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Goldstone Bridge (55), Click for Route Map.
Canalside pub
Home-cooked food, local ales and idyllic canal side views. We allow well behaved dogs, kept on a lead in our bar and beer garden.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Canal Towpath, Click for Route Map.
A village in Staffordshire handy for the amenities it offers to passing boaters.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Boat Inn Bridge (34), Click for Route Map.
The Boat Inn is a proper local, with great beer, a cosy atmosphere, real fires, delicious homemade food and classic pub grub.
And we love dogs as much as people!
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Boat Inn Bridge (34), Click for Route Map.
Convenience Store close to the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Boat Inn Bridge (34), Click for Route Map.
The Navigation Inn is a charming village pub and restaurant with a large beer garden with beautiful canalside views, perfect for Al fresco dining in the summer. Our lovely team are ready to welcome you and make your visit a memorable one!
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Gnosall Bridge (35), Click for Route Map.
Kebabs, Fish & Chips
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Gnosall Bridge (35), Click for Route Map.
A small village in Staffordshire, England about 9 miles (14 km) south west of Stafford.
A great range of real-ales, hand picked wines and contemporary cocktails. We serve a traditional comfort style pub menu complimented by daily specials which you can enjoy in a more traditional restaurant area, in the bar or overlooking the canal in our all weather beer garden.
Dogs welcome.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Small Shop but stocks a wide range of goods. Also doubles as a post office.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Great Spar and well stocked, friendly and welcoming staff.
Not too far from the canal and located in the centre of the village opposite the lovely little square.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Dog friendly Marston's Sport's Pub, about half a mile from the canal.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Tavern Bridge (19), Click for Route Map.
Charming village with 13th Century Church and interesting Gothic style speedwell Castle.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 14, Click for Route Map.
A dog and family friendly canal side pub. Food served daily.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Bridge 14, Click for Route Map.
Handy store for provisions
Traditional British Pub, just over half a mile from the canal
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pendeford Bridge (4), Click for Route Map.
The Olde Vicarage in the heart of Bilbrook has been lovingly restored to provide a unique intimate venue home to The Olde Vic community micropub offering fine ales, wines and spirits along with traditional bar snacks.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pendeford Bridge (4), Click for Route Map.
A 5* rated food hygiene rated Fish & Chip shop
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pendeford Bridge (4), Click for Route Map.
Supermarket chain selling own-label goods, plus well-known brands & meat from British farms.
Location: On Google Maps
Best Access From: Pendeford Bridge (4), Click for Route Map.
This new edition of Michael Pearson's Welsh Waters Canal Companion focusses on the Llangollen, Montgomery and Monmouthshire & Brecon canals in Wales, and the Shropshire Union Canal in England. Over 200 miles of canals expertly interpreted to inspire you, on foot, afloat or by bicycle.
