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RIVER SEVERN Originally a Georgian hotel, the Lenchford retains many original features and, with an extensive menu and an enticing range of beers, offers a warm welcome to boaters. Free moorings for patrons
The River Severn is only navigable for a short distance north of Stourport-on-Severn so travelling south we see Redstone Rock, on the right-hand side, which once had a hermitage in the caves. The river runs through hilly countryside to Lincomb Lock and continues to Astley Burf and on to Lenchford. An impressive iron bridge greets boaters at Holt Fleet and a little further south at Grimley the River Salwarpe and the Droitwich Barge Canal join the mainline. The river is only navigable for a short distance but work is in hand to restore the Droitwich Barge Canal and the Droitwich Canal to provide a link to the Birmingham and Worcester Canal. Continuing past Grimley the river enters Worcester, running close to the racecourse and the cricket ground. Worcester Cathedral can be seen and with moorings north of Diglis Lock a visit to the city and its historic buildings is a must.
A la carte menu and carvery in our restaurant. Bar Meals Morning Coffee Sunday Carvery Children welcome Pub Games En-suite accommodation Riverside gardens
Open all day Food served Noon - 9pm Booking advisable for restaurant
The Hampstall Inn
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Good moorings at Upton-on-Severn
Welcome to this traditional riverside pub offering real ale and honest home-cooked food to suit all tastes.
Open all day * ay e ve ry d
South of Worcester, the Malvern Hills can be seen to the west then steep sandstone cliffs rise out of the water as the river winds past Severn Stoke and Hanley Castle to Upton-on-Severn a charming town with good moorings and well worth a visit. A remote section follows as the river passes the pretty village of Ripple and on to the outskirts of Tewkesbury. Turning right on to the River Avon takes the boater into the centre of this historic town with the opportunity to travel North on the Avon to Evesham and Stratford-upon-Avon. Boaters may also continue South towards Gloucester.
Food available lunchtime and evenings Sunday Carvery
Pool Table Play Area Riverside Seating Fishing & Moorings for Customers * hours vary out of season, please phone to check.
Please mention the Canal Cruising Guide when visiting advertisers
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STOURPORT-ON-SEVERN The Staffs & Worcs provided a link between the Trent & Mersey Canal and, through the Severn, down to Gloucester and the West Country. The canal reached Stourport in 1771 and, by 1812, there were five canal basins there and the town became the busiest inland port in the Midlands. The town grew rapidly and, by the 1780s, there were brass and iron foundries, a vinegar works and boat building yards among other industries. In 1862 the railway came to Stourport and, as with other areas, affected the prosperity of the canal and the town although between 1926 and 1949, boats from the Cannock fields delivered coal to the local power station.
Stourport’s Upper Basin
Stourport-on-Severn is the only town in Britain to owe its existence solely to the canal system. Before this, there was a small hamlet called Lower Mitton but when James Brindley was looking for a location for his Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal to link with the River Severn he chose Stourport rather than Bewdley,
Stourport’s Only Riverside Inn
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The Angel Inn 14 Severnside, Stourport-on-Severn Tel: 01299 822661 Customer Moorings
A warm welcome awaits you at this well-known boaters pub, formerly known as “The Virgin”, that dates back to the early 18th century. You’ll find traditional pub grub with children’s meals and vegetarian options, complemented with cask ales and guest beers. Call in soon.....
For some visitors it might be a little disconcerting to find that Stourport has something of the air of a seaside resort with its funfair, bingo, boat trips and more. Indeed the town has been a popular destination for day-trippers from all over the West Midlands for many years.
Rising Sun e h T
Riverside Seating
Traditional Sunday Roast Lunch
Open daily 11am to 11pm Food available every day
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This early Victorian town centre pub, popular with both locals and boaters, is the first and last pub on the Staffs & Worcs and is canalside at Bridge 5a. There’s a fine range of cask ales and guest beers and freshly prepared traditional pub food with vegetarian meals. We also have a heated, covered canalside patio area.
Live Music Saturday evenings throughout Summer Children welcome
Comfortable en-suite accommodation available
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Dogs allowed in the bar
Open 10.30am to Midnight daily (Noon to Midnight Sunday) Food served Noon to 2pm and 6.30 to 9pm Traditional Sunday Roast - Noon to 4pm
Lombard Street, Stourport-on-Severn Tel: 01299 822530
STOURPORT-ON-SEVERN STAFFORDSHIRE & WORCESTERSHIRE But as well as the latter-day attractions, Stourport CANAL retains much of its history, although the impressive Tontine Hotel, built by the canal company in 1788, is now closed and destined to be turned into apartments. The Clock Warehouse (pictured left) is now headquarters of the Stourport Yacht Club and in Mart Lane, adjacent to the basins, you’ll find an 18th century terrace of workmen’s cottages. Nearby the previously filled-in Lichfield Street basin has been restored and will accommodate the ever-increasing need for moorings. Whether you fancy a trip to the funfair, a drink or meal, to stock up on provisions or soak up some history then take a look around Stourport-on-Severn. Everywhere is within easy walking distance and the main shopping area is around York Street, High Street and Lombard Street. The basins can be quite busy and mooring may be difficult, if you want to explore the town, there are visitor moorings north of York Street Locks
The Staffs & Worcs Canal, built by James Brindley, was opened in 1772 and runs for 46 miles from Great Haywood to Stourport with 43 locks. It formed a link between the rivers Trent, Mersey and Severn and was used to transport goods from the Potteries to Gloucester and the West Country. The canal runs south from Autherley Junction to Aldersley Junction with the Birmingham Canal Navigation main line and continues south-westwards through the outskirts of Wolverhampton passing Wightwick where a National Trust property, Wightwick Manor, is easily accessible from bridge 56. The house contains some fine examples of work by William Morris and the Pre-Raphaelites.
The Bird in Hand Holly Rd Stourport-On-Severn Tel:01299 822385 East of Bridge 7
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The Staffs & Worcs at Caunsall
A traditional canalside pub with a wealth of canal decor
Four real ales and guest beers
Traditional pub grub, freshly cooked to order Children welcome Dogs on leads allowed on canalside patio Bowling Green Open daily, Noon to Midnight Food served 12.30 - 2.30 and 6.30 - 9.30 Tues - Sat Also Bank Holiday Mondays and Mondays in Summer (Please phone to check)
Continuing through Wombourne the canal passes through open countryside to Swindon and on to Stourton Junction and then through a charming wooded section to Kinver. Sandstone is much in evidence in this area and, around Kinver, houses were built into the rocks and some examples still exist. Kinver is a pretty village for a stop before continuing through more pleasant wooded countryside to Caunsall, Cookley and Wolverley. At Kidderminster there are good moorings and the canal is very close to the town centre for shopping, refreshments or an excursion on the Severn Valley Railway. From here the canal runs through the outskirts of Kidderminster and, for a short distance is in quiet countryside before arriving at Stourport-on-Severn. and the junction with the River Severn.
The Severn Valley Railway
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The Severn Valley Railway runs from Kidderminster in service on the trains through to the ever-popular luncheon Worcestershire to Bridgnorth in Shropshire and our station trains. These trains operate on most Sundays and in Kidderminster is a short 15 minute walk from the canal. some Wednesdays throughout the year and offer a choice of menu Steam trains operate along this superbly restored 16 mile depending on which departure is booked. branch line every weekend of the year and, in 2008, daily from May 3rd to October 1st plus local school holidays in Additionally, the SVR has wine and dine theme trains February, Easter and October. The railway boasts one of the during the summer months with the Murder Mystery theme largest collections of working steam locomotives and coaches, as popular as ever. Advance booking is required for the luncheon trains and theme evenings. including some rolling stock which is over 80 years old. The beautiful valley of the River Severn is best seen from the train, or by alighting at one of the intermediate stations, you can enjoy a walk along the riverside paths. Leaflets describing the walks are available from SVR stations. Operating steam-hauled trains on some 240 days in the year puts a strain on the human resources but whatever the reason for your visit, you are assured of a warm welcome. You will find that one visit on the Severn Valley Railway is never enough. The railway also offers a wide variety of catering facilities For further information, call 01299 403816 during office ranging from the buffets at the main stations, a trolley hours or visit www.svr.co.uk
The Lock Inn
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Wolverley Rd.,, Wolverley Canalside at by Bridge 20 Tel: 01562 850581
Wolverley Village, 5 mins from Bridge 20 Tel: 01562 850333
Warm, Friendly Atmosphere
Real Cask Ales
Beer Garden
Pool, Games Room
Traditional Home Cooking
Function Rooms
Boaters Welcome
Quiz Night Sunday Open Mic Night Tuesday Live Music Friday, Saturday
Large Upstairs Restaurant Quality Home-made Food Families Welcome Cask Marque Accredited Ales Roast Sunday Lunch Enjoy Cakes and Ice Cream in our Tearoom Garden
Open daily 11am - Midnight Tearoom open 9.30am - 5pm
The Anchor Inn
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at Caunsall Caunsall Road Caunsall Tel: 01562 850254 10 mins West of Bridge 26 The Anchor opened in 1840 and is a pub with real tradition having been run by members of the same family for 80 years. It remains a popular inn for locals and boaters, offering real ale, cider and guest beers together with freshly-prepared pub food. Call in soon and find out for yourself why it’s been described as the “Best pub in England”.
Greensforge, Kingswinford Tel: 01384 273721 Dating back to the 1700s, the Navigation offers traditional home-cooked pub food and real ales including Abbot, locally-brewed Enville and guest beers. We’ve real fires for cooler days and you’ll always find a warm welcome.
Beer Garden Children & Dogs welcome Open Noon - 4pm & 7pm - Midnight Monday - Saturday Noon -3pm & 7pm-10.30pm Sunday Well-known locally for well-filled cobs www.theanchorinncaunsall.co.uk
Open daily 9.30am - Midnight Food served all day until 8.30pm
The Green Man
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High Street, Swindon Tel: 01384 400532
100 yards West of Bridge 40 The Green Man is a traditional village pub serving proper home-cooked food. You’ll also find a choice of real ales and cider together with a wealth of traditional pub games. A little gem. Beer Garden Families Welcome
SHROPSHIRE UNION CANAL The Shropshire Union Canal runs from the outskirts of Wolverhampton to Ellesmere Port covering some 66 miles, with 47 locks. The “Shroppie” was one of the last canals to be built and was a “union” of the Birmingham & Liver- pool Junction Canal, the Chester Canal and the Wirral line of the Ellesmere Canal. In 1846, when the Shropshire Union Railway & Canal Company was formed, railways were beginning to gain popularity and their influence can be seen in the stretch between Autherley and Nantwich where Thomas Telford designed cuttings and embankments to provide long lock free sections. From Autherley the canal passes Brewood, Wheaton Aston and on to Gnosall – all with a good selection of shops and pubs, then Shelmore Embankment takes the canal on to Norbury – The Wrekin can be seen to the West. At Norbury Junction is the beginning of the now defunct Newport Branch to Shrewsbury, it is now used for moorings and the junction is a popular stopping point for its pub,
Dogs welcome Outdoor covered seating area
Open all day every day except Thursday (Noon - 3 & 4.30 - 11) Food served Noon - 2.30 and 6-8ish
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Since opening in May last year, chef Alex has brought authentic Mediterranean cuisine to Compton with a delicious fusion of Egyptian, Portuguese, Italian, Greek and Lebanese dishes. With its ground-floor cafe bar, first floor dining area and an attractive canalside terrace for warmer days, at Alex’s eating becomes a pleasure. Our dishes are freshly cooked to order using locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarian and children’s meals available. Two Course Sunday Lunch £10.95 booking recommended
We welcome private parties phone for details. Arabian Nights throughout the year call to check. 5A Bridgnorth Road, Compton, Wolverhampton Canalside at Bridge 59 - customer moorings
Opening times Lunch Mon-Sat 12-3 Evenings Tue-Sat 6-9.30 Sunday lunch 12-4 Bookings tel. 01902 759274 Visit www.alexsrestaurantcafebar.co.uk
Tyrley Locks From Norbury the canal enters Grub Street Cutting with its much-photographed High Bridge with two arches and a telegraph pole on the top of the lower arch. An aqueduct marks the beginning of Shebdon embankment and, after Woodseaves cutting, is the first set of locks for some miles – the Tyrley flight that leads into Market Drayton an ancient market town. You might need a break here before tackling the five Adderley locks and the flight of fifteen that lead in to Audlem. Now in Cheshire, the canal leads on to Nantwich where it crosses a splendid cast iron aqueduct and you’ll find moorings to allow you to visit the town which is a short walk away. Just north of Nantwich is Hurleston Junction where the Llangollen Canal begins and a mile further on is Barbridge Junction where the Middlewich branch takes the boater on to the Trent & Mersey Canal. From Barbridge the canal runs parallel with a busy road for some distance then follows a more peaceful route to Bunbury and a little further on you will see Beeston Castle, which is open to the public. Continuing westward, the canal enters the outskirts of Chester – there is a park and ride facility at Christleton to take you in to the centre of the city or a further five locks lead into the centre where moorings are available.
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BREWOOD
Brewood, pronounced "Brood", is a charming village dating back to medieval times and the village centre, just a few minutes walk from Bridge 14 on the Shropshire Union Canal, still retains much of it's Georgian character. On the corner of the square is Speedwell Castle an 18th century folly, and, at the other end of the square is the village church, parts of which date back to the 16th century. Dean Street contains a number of historic houses - at the bottom of the hill you will find Old Smithy Cottages, the oldest building in Brewood from c1350. The village has a number of shops, where you can stock up on provisions and purchase gifts and souvenirs, as well as a choice of places for refreshment.
W Maiden & Son High Class Butchers
W Maiden
Purveyors of Fine Meat for more than a century Quality Fruit & Vegetables, English & Continental Cheeses, Fresh Fish, Home-made Pies
The Mess
Licensed Game Dealers
Admiral Rodney
Stafford Street, Brewood Tel: 01902 850346
Phone ahead to place your order
the mess 3 the market place brewood tel: 01902 851694
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As a family run bistro we are committed to providing friendly yet discreet service; honest, locally sourced and reasonably priced food, skillfully prepared by our Head Chef.
Dean Street, Brewood Tel: 01902 850583
The Admiral Rodney is an inn for real ale and good food enthusiasts, boasting no less than seven guest ales and an extensive à la carte menu of home-made, mouthwatering delights.
Our absorbing and friendly atmosphere and indeed our menus are a fusion of village meets urban and where traditional complements creative with a modern twist. Enjoy!!!!!!
We’re proud to have received Cask Marque accreditation awarded to licensees for excellence in the service of cask ale.
Cafe am
Restaurant pm
Tuesday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm Breakfast served from 9am - 12.00pm.
Dinner Tuesday - Friday 2 courses £11 3 courses £13
Daytime Bistro menu available until 5pm each day. 2 courses £8.95
Saturday 2 courses £15 3 courses £17.95
Lazy Sundays Brunch 9:30am - 12:00 pm Lunch: Traditional roast lunch or bistro menu. 12.00 - 3.30pm
Visit us at www.the-mess.co.uk
Open Daily 11am- 11pm Sunday: Noon - 10.30pm Food Served Mon - Sat Breakfast 9.30am - 11.30am Lunch Noon- 3pm Dinner 6pm-9pm Sunday Lunch Noon - 4pm
T
vigation In a N e n h
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Canalside at Norbury Junction
Newport Road, Gnosall, Stafford
Set in scenic surroundings, The Junction Inn is a popular boaters' pub offering traditional home-made food for all the family all day together with a fine choice of beers.
The Navigation Inn was built in the 1800s along with stables, piggeries and a bowling alley (which have long since gone) and was originally built for the canal navvies. The Navigation is situated at bridge 35 on the Shropshire Union Canal. The present day Navigation Inn offers an idyllic setting with a restaurant that overlooks the canal, Beer Garden and a Children's Play Area. A full A la Carte Menu is available along with a wide selection of Specials, Bar Snacks and Children's Menu.
ues Weekend Barbec summer throughout the ther) (subject to wea
We also offer a fine selection of Ales, Spirits and, of course, Soft Drinks. Also Pool, Darts, Dominoes and Cards. Food served daily: Monday - Saturday 12 - 2.30pm and 6 - 9pm Sunday 12 - 8pm
To avoid disappointment, please reserve your table for the Restaurant.
Tel: 01785 822327 Fax: 01785 824822
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The Four Alls
Four Alls, 68 Woodseaves, Market Drayton 10 minutes from Bridge 60, Tyrley Top Lock
Food served Noon-2.30pm & 5.30pm-9.30pm
Goldstone Bridge 55 The Wharf Tavern is a popular stopping-off point for boaters and is open daily between noon and 3pm and from 6.30pm to 11pm. The menu has a wide selection of freshly cooked meals including excellent steaks, or snacks and sandwiches available at lunch time. Roast lunches served on a Sunday. Global wines and cask ales served. We look forward to welcoming you. Customer Moorings Canalside Gardens Children Welcome Caravan Site Food served daily 12 - 2pm & 6.30 - 9pm
www.wharftaverngoldstone.com
Booking advisable for Restaurant Tel: 01630 652995
Comments, Queries, Suggestions Please contact HA Communications Tel: 07940 190690 Email: feedback@canalcruisingguide.co.uk
The Bridge Inn 69 12 Shropshire Street Audlem Cheshire CW3 0DX Tel:- 01270-8112167 (Next to Bridge 78)
Own your own copy of the
The Bridge Inn was refurbished throughout in 2008 and new owners Bridie and Nigel Walker invite you to call in and enjoy traditional home-cooked food together a great choice of quality cask conditioned ales & wines. Watch the boats go by on the Shropshire Union canal whilst eating lunch or dinner in our newly built conservatory restaurant.
Copies of the 2009 edition may still be available for purchase or, to register your interest in the 2010 edition, please go to: www.canalcruisingguide.co.uk and click on “Contact”
Quality Beers and Guest Ales Children Welcome Dogs allowed in bar area only
Or call HA Communications Tel: 07940 190690
Curry Night Tuesday Quiz nights Wed/Thurs Fantastic Sunday Carvery
The Lord Combermere Country Pub in the Heart of Cheshire Great Family run pub, in the heart of Audlem. Recently refurbished. The Lord Combermere is a great place to stop off on your travels, we have Something on offer for everyone, whether you are craving for some spicy food or some simple home comforts we have great dishes on the menu to tantalise your taste buds and all our dishes are created using local produce! Daily Specials are a great feature at our place and we offer a roast dinner every day for our little guests along with a full kids menu. So if you fancy a pint, coffee, light snacks and a great dining experience, we look forward to welcoming you to the Lord ‘C’
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A unique and exciting day out for the family, discovering history you can see, hear and feel. For 50 years, this vast underground complex was SECRET. Entering through the massive blast doors, you'll be transported into the chilling world of the COLD WAR. Costing over £32 million, explore the nuclear blastproof HQ and see the government's preparations for nuclear war. Step into the lives of those who worked here, hear the sounds, even the smells of a working Civil Defence HQ. Exciting war rooms and audio-visuals. 2 superb cinemas. Explore the labyrinth of spooky corridors. The bunker is an adventure playground in itself. Children have bundles of fun following the SOVIET SPY MOUSE TRAIL. You are sure to enjoy an eye-opening visit. Bunker Bistro and Shop Disabled, and Mother & Baby Facilities Open from 10.30 Daily March - October Winter Opening Times, November - March, vary Ring info line for details
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01270 629219 Website:- www.hackgreen.co.uk
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The Bunker is only 200 yards from Bridge 85 on the Shropshire Union Canal - Moorings at Hack Green Lock
The Farmers Arms
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Horse & Jockey
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Grindley Brook Whitchurch
200 yards downhill from Grindley Brook (mooring also behind service station opposite pub)
Wide choice of cask-conditioned ales and guest beers A traditional, welcoming, country inn offering real ale, guest beers and genuine home-cooked meals, using local produce whenever possible. Children’s play area
Pool table
Vegetarian dishes
Children’s menu
Full restaurant menu plus bar snacks, sandwiches and baguettes. Regularly changing specials Curries, Vegetarian Dishes, Children’s Menu. Games Room Children welcome Debit Cards Welcome Secure Enclosed Outside Play Area
Open Mon-Fri Noon-3pm & 6.30-11 Sat Noon-4 & 6-11, Sun all day from Noon Marsh Lane, Ravensmoor Tel: 01270 623522
“best pub we've been to in a long time, food first-class, A+” Canal Guide reader
Open Monday- Friday Noon-3pm & 5pm-11pm Saturday Noon-11pm, Sunday Noon-10.30pm Food served Monday-Friday Noon-2.30pm & 6pm-9pm Saturday Noon-9pm, Sunday Noon-8.30pm Phone ahead to reserve a table - 01948 662723
LLANGOLLEN CANAL The Llangollen Canal begins at Hurleston Junction where it joins the Shropshire Union and is probably the most picturesque canal in the United Kingdom - this would account for it being the most popular. It can be busy during the height of summer and you may experience delays at locks at peak times. However, it’s a relaxing 41 mile cruise with 21 locks and some spectacular scenery.
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Take-away Service
Hannah Restaurant Exceptionally fresh meals at exceptional value!
A La Carte Menu available at all times Vegetarians & Vegans catered for Take-away Meal Deal - ONLY £6 Specialising in Outside Catering Sunday Lunch 2 courses £4.95 Family Friendly
Perfect for party bookings!!
5 Green End Whitchurch Tel: 01948 666699 The canal was constructed in the early 19th century by Thomas Telford and William Jessop and, without a doubt, its crowning glory is the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct which is After the aqueduct is a short tunnel and the canal continues to the West of Chirk and bends to the West, with magnificent over 200 years old. views of the Welsh hills, before crossing the Pontcysllte Aqueduct, some 120 feet above the River Dee. There is a towpath on one side whilst the other side presents a sheer drop – those of a nervous disposition may wish to stay inside the boat!.
At the other end of the aqueduct is Trevor and a sharp turn to the left leads on to the final section to Llangollen, care should be taken here as the canal is narrow and shallow. New moorings at Llangollen will allow you time to explore the town.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
After the five locks at Hurleston, the canal winds south- wards towards Wrenbury and then westwards passing Marbury, a small village with a magnificent church in a beautiful setting on a hill overlooking Little Mere. Just outside Whitchurch are Grindley Brook locks and you might like to take a break here before tackling these six locks. This group includes three staircase locks – if you’re not sure how to tackle them, seek help from the lock keeper. Shortly after Grindley Brook comes Whitchurch and you may wish to moor in the Whitchurch Arm for a visit to the town. Continuing South the canal enters a fairly deserted area that includes Whixall Moss, a peat bog that is now a Site of Special Scientific Interest. The canal now crosses the border between England and Wales and continues on to Ellesmere, a charming town where an arm takes you into the town centre. From Ellesmere the winding canal arrives at Lower Frankton and the junction with the Montgomeryshire Canal, this waterway is being renovated and is navigable as far as Maesbury. The Llangollen then runs through quiet countryside towards Chirk, the aqueduct here runs parallel with a railway bridge and gives a taste of what is to come at
We welcome your nominations for the “Canal Cruising Guide Pub of the Year” Just go to www.canalcruisingguide.co.uk and click on “Comments” Tell us about your favourite pub and why it should win the award. Then in November we’ll select, at random, one lucky reader to receive
£50 worth of M & S vouchers - you can nominate as many pubs as you like and each time you enter you’ll be increasing your chances of winning the prize.
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ELLESMERE
Ellesmere, it has a fine vaulted cellar which is now a restaurant. Ellesmere, originally a fortified Anglo-Saxon settlement, has always enjoyed the vitality of a busy market town. Indeed, regular markets have been held here since 1221 when the first Market Charter was granted by Henry III. Market day is Tuesday. Cremorne Gardens, on the shoreline of the Mere are within walking distance and there is a children's playground and a nature walk as well as a Visitor Centre at the Mere.
Nestling between the Mere and the canal, the little market town of Ellesmere has a wide variety of shops to interest the visitor. Shopkeepers here are renowned for their friendly and personal service to all their customers. At the centre of the town is The Square, dominated by the old Town Hall, which was built by the Countess of Bridgwater in 1833. Typical of the buildings in
Scotland St Rd arf Wh
Canal Wharf
Vermeulen's of Ellesmere
Comments, Queries, Suggestions Please contact HA Communications Tel: 07940 190690 Email: feedback@canalcruisingguide.co.uk
Rainbows
Gifts, Candles, Hair Accessories, Cards, Makeup, Stationery and much, much more..... 2a Wharf Road, Ellesmere Tel: 07791 797259
SHROPSHIRE CAT RESCUE
CHARITY SHOP
Crusty Bread Baked Fresh Daily English & Continental Cheeses Delicatessen Home-Cooked Meats 6 Cross Street Ellesmere Tel: 01691 622521 Award-winning 16th Century Coaching Inn Food served all day every day Noon-8.30pm Booking advisable for parties over 4 and at weekends Accommodation available Heated Beer garden
Church Street, Ellesmere Tel: 01691 622632
www.ellesmere.info/redlion
The Corner House 20 High Street, Ellesmere Breakfasts and full menu served all day from 8.30am Morning Coffee to 11.45am Wine, Beers & Spirits from 11am
FRED ROBERTS Greetings Cards, Glass, Toys, Gifts and Stationery.
Books, Gifts, Toys and much more.......... Open Tues, Thurs - Sat 10 - 4 18 Scotland Street, Ellesmere
High St
ch S t
Wat erga St te
Cro ss
St
Chu r
7 Cross St Ellesmere Tel: 01691 622358
Afternoon Tea from 2.15pm
Tel: 01691 623478
Hindford Tel: 01691 679861 Canalside North of Bridge 11
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A warm welcome awaits you at our waterside inn and restaurant with a good reputation for food, from traditional bar meals to Chef David Filde’s à la carte specials.
Choice of Real Ales
The Bridge Inn
Children welcome
Chirk Bank 01691 773213
Booking always advisable
Email: martin.Cooke@bigfoot .com
At the Bridge, you’ll be assured of a warm welcome and traditional hospitality like your gran enjoyed. We are only two minutes from the canal with a fantastic view overlooking the Chirk viaduct and aqueduct.
Patio bar and large canalside beer garden
We serve real ales and homemade meals from Noon onwards every day Children and dogs welcome
Open at Noon and again79 at 6pm
Quiz every Wednesday
Noon - 2.30pm, 6 - 9pm
Excellent moorings at Bridge number 21 Follow road down at bridge 21 to find
Visit www.jack-mytton.co.uk for updated pictures, "find us" map, menus, on line booking, and history.
the "last pub in England" 78
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Bridge End Hotel
Mill Street, Llangollen Tel: 01978 860634 Nearest pub to Llangollen wharf just a few minutes downhill at the end of the bridge. A friendly bar, open all day for food and drinks including cask ales and guest beers.
Families welcome Good food served every day En-suite accommodation BIG SCREEN FOOTBALL
Open daily 11am - Midnight
For the benefit of other holidaymakers, please do not remove this guide from the boat
Bar and Restaurant 22 Lewin Street, Middlewich.
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Tel: 01606 738087
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T
arrow Bo N a he
Traditional pub offering fine pub food and bar snacks together with cask beers and guest ales.
ommende e c by
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akfast Bed & Bre tion da Accommo
the locals
Children Welcome Family Dining Area Baby Changing Facilities Beer Garden Daily Specials Vegetarian Dishes Children’s Menu Sunday Roast Open 11.30 - 2.30 Monday-Friday, 6-12 MonThurs, 5-1am Fri, All day Sat & Sun Food served 12-2 Mon-Sat, from 6pm Mon Thurs, from 5pm Fri, Sat All day Sunday
2 mins north of Bridge 169
Visit our website at www.the-narrowboat.co.uk
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Webb Lane, Middlewich - at Lock 75
UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT - Jackie, Ken & Stuart Pickles formerly of The Narrowboat pub, Middlewich The Big Lock is a popular boaters' pub with a big choice of light lunches, sandwiches and restaurant meals plus a well-stocked bar with four guest ales and a good selection of lagers, beers and wine
BRIDGEWATER CANAL From Middlewich the Trent & Mersey Canal runs Northwards and, just south of Preston Brook Tunnel, it becomes the Bridgewater Canal at Dutton Stop Lock. The Bridgewater is claimed to be the first canal to be built in England and was constructed in 1671 by the Duke of Bridgewater to carry coal from his mines at Worsley to Manchester. It extends from Preston Brook to the centre of Manchester. North of the tunnel is the arm to Runcorn that originally linked with the Mersey. The canal runs through the attractive village of Moore and then through the more built-up area around Stockton Heath then Grappenhall which retains a village atmosphere with its old buildings and cobbled streets.
Children’s Menu Noon - 4pm From £5.95 from £3.95
Open Mon - Thurs Winter - 11.30am - 3pm & 5pm-11pm Summer 11.30am -11.30pm Open Fri, Sat, Sun all year, all day Food Served Noon - 2.30pm & from 5.30pm Mon-Sat, Noon - 8pm Sun Visit www.thebiglock.co.uk, email: thebiglock@btinternet.com Tel/fax 01606 833489
Lymm A little further on is the charming town of Lymm and countryside then follows as the canal runs towards Sale and the outskirts of Manchester. At Bridge 42 is the Leigh arm of the Bridgewater that travels through Worsley and forms a link with the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. Continuing on the main line the Bridgewater then passes Castlefield Junction, with useful moorings and terminates at Dulcie Street Junction where the waterway becomes the Ashton Canal. As in many city areas, care should be taken in choosing a mooring and the Castlefield Junction is an ideal spot from which to explore the shopping, pubs, restaurants and cultural facilities that the city offers.
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The Swan with Two Nicks
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Park Lane Little Bollington Tel: 0161 928 2914 2 minutes East of Bridge 26a
BACI
Traditional Country Pub serving homemade food, fine winesand real ales. We stock the range of beers from the local Dunham Brewing Company including Little Bollington Bitter, Big Tree Bitter and Dark Mild as well as our permanent Swan with Two Nicks ale, brewed by Coach Taylor Landlord and Abbot Ale.
For Italian food and hospitality at its very best, Trattoria Baci is a must. We offer a choice of pizzas, pasta and traditional Italian dishes, all at reasonable prices. The restaurant is fully licensed and childrenare most welcome.
Dogs welcome in our bar area Large outside decked area for al fresco drinks and dining
* Daily Specials
Roaring log fires in the winter months
* Take-away pizzas and pasta dishes available
Booking recommended for Saturday evening & Sunday lunch.
* Open: Lunch: 12-2.30 Tues - Sun Evenings: 6-10.30 daily
NO TV or Fruit machines Fresh Fish our speciality
Open daily Noon - 11pm (Sunday Noon - 10.30pm)
18 The Cross, Lymm. Tel 01925 756067
Noon - 9pm Monday - Saturday Noon - 8pm Sunday
(50 yards from Bridge 23)
Duke of York
84
Stockport Road Romiley
Tel: 0161 430 2806 5 minutes East of Bridge 14 Moor at the bridge
PEAK FOREST CANAL The Peak Forest Canal opened at the end of the 18th century and was constructed to carry limestone from Buxworth into Manchester. The canal covers some 14 miles from Buxworth to its junction with the Ashton Canal at Dukinfield Junction. From its terminus, the canal runs north past the arm in to Whaley Bridge , a charming town with pleasant moorings.
The Duke of York is a former coaching inn that is now a charming country pub with a friendly atmosphere and a great choice of real ales including guest beers. We’re Cask Marque accredited - awarded to licensees for excellence in the service of cask ale.
Two Comfortable Bars Quiz Night Monday Pub Garden Children Welcome Our Mediterranean Restaurant uses only fresh produce to create a menu that includes kebabs, and a wide choice of fish dishes together with traditional steaks, Chef’s Specials, children’s menu and vegetarian choices.
Food is served all day every day from lunchtime until late both in the restaurant and in our bars. Booking for restaurant advisable at weekends
Open daily Noon - 11pm (10.30 Sun)
Whaley Bridge It then follows a pretty route overlooking the Goyt Valley and as you approach New Mills you’ll detect a sweet smell in the air as the canal passes the Matlows factory where “Swizzles” are made. The canal then reaches Marple and the junction with the Macclesfield Canal. You may like to take a look around the town before tackling the 16 locks that make up the Marple flight. After the locks is the impressive Marple Aqueduct and the canal then continues to Manchester running through Romiley, a useful spot to stock up on provisions, Hyde and on to Dukinfield Junction which links with the Ashton Canal and the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Portland Basin provides useful moorings
Macclesfield Canal The Macclesfield Canal was opened in 1831 and was one of the last canals to be built, it runs for nearly 28 miles and has 13 locks. The canal was intended as an alternative route between Manchester and the Midlands and, as with Thomas Telford’s work on the Shropshire Union Canal, it consists of embankments and cuttings with all the locks grouped together at Bosley .
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The Ring ‘o Bells is popular with boaters and locals alike and offers good local beers and great food, we look forward to seeing you soon.......
The canal starts at Marple at the junction with the Peak Forest Canal and runs South through some fine countryside with views of the Pennines, towards Bollington. There the canal runs above the town, and can be accessed, from the aqueduct. At Macclesfield the canal is to the East of the town, on the outskirts, although it’s only a short walk into the centre for provisions.
ld C hi r en ome c l We
Another charming rural section follows and then Bosley locks, regarded by many as the most impressive flight on the network. Then comes Congleton and again the canal is on the outskirts of the town but it is well worth the 15 minute walk from Congleton Wharf to explore the town.
Marple Locks
Restaurant Opening Times Monday: Closed all day Tuesday: 12.00 - 2.00 & 5.30 - 8.00 Wednesday: 12.00 - 2.00 Thursday: 12.00 - 2.00 & 5.30 - 8.00 Friday: 12.00 - 2.00 & 5.30 - 8.30 Saturday: 12.00 - 2.00 & 5.30 - 8.30 Sunday: 12.00 - 7.00
130 Church Lane, Marple. Open Monday to Friday: 12.00 - 3.00 & 5.30 - 12.0 Saturday & Sunday: All Day
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Once again passing through delightful countryside, Little Moreton Hall is to the West and another National Trust property can be seen to the East - Mow Cop, nearly 1100 ft above sea level and providing superb views over the surrounding countryside. The last few miles of the Macclesfield are, once again, through quiet countryside except around the area of Scholar Green where the proximity of the railway line occasionally disturbs the peace. Hall Green stop lock is a charming spot and it could be said that from thereon the canal is really the Trent & Mersey as we proceed to the unusual junction at Hardings Wood.
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The Windmill Inn Whiteley Green Macclesfield Tel:01625 574222 mail@thewindmill.info 200 yards from Bridge 25
The Windmill in Whiteley Green is a country pub serving fresh food, cask ales and decent wine. They source local fresh ingredients for their chefs to prepare classic British dishes, sometimes with a twist to suit many tastes. They also take the same care with their beer and try, where possible, to keep them as local as they can. They serve food every lunch time and evening and all day at weekends and they also have an extensive wine list, many of which are by the glass. Booking is always recommended and why not take a look at their new website.
Open Noon-3pm & 5pm-11pm Mon-Fri, Noon-11pm Sat, Noon-10.30pm Sun
Food Served Noon-2.30pm & 5pm-9pm Mon-Fri, Noon-9.30pm Sat, Noon-8pm Sun Visit www.thewindmill.info
Customers of all ages are welcome, from families to couples looking for a romantic dinner for two. Gareth uses local produce for a menu that offers his own personal take on traditional seasonal dishes, plus a choice of sandwiches. There’s an outdoor seating area for the summer, open log fires in winter and a warm welcome whenever you call.
MACCLESFIELD SILK 88 MUSEUMS The Heritage Centre,Macclesfield Roe St., Silk Museums, Macclesfield Tel: 01625 612045
The Silk Museum is housed in a former Sunday School, built in 1814 to educate the children who worked in the mills. There is an awardwinning audio visual programme whilst silk costumes and textiles illustrate the importance of silk to fashion. The Mulberry Tree coffee shop offers light snacks and a fuller menu. Just a short walk away, new displays have been developed in the former School of Art and Design exploring the properties of silk, design education and Macclesfiled’s diverse textile industries. Exhibiitons and room sets illustrate life in the 1930s
based on 3 listed sites, tell the story of silk with particular reference to Macclesfield, once known as the silk capital of England
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e Rising Sun T hStation Road, Scholar Green,
121 Congleton Road North, Scholar Green Tel: 01782 782272
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Tel: 01782 776235
Approx 200m from canal moor above Hall Green Stop Lock, right at path by footbridge and left at
The Rising Sun has been a popular stopping point for boaters for many years with a fine reputation for friendly service, good food and great beers including a choice of real ales with changing guest ales.
A thatched pub with a fine reputation, offering traditional food, Robinson’s ales and a very warm welcome.
The cosy restaurant offers a wide range of main meals, including grills and vegetarian dishes together with children’s meals. Sandwiches and lighter bites are available in the lounge.
Meals served in our restaurant and bars. Popular carvery, daily specials and a la carte menu.
Quiz Night alternate Tuesdays Steak Night Tuesday (Choice of steaks for £9.95 - FREE bottle of red or white wine per table - min. 2 steaks)
Vegetarian Dishes
Pensioners Specials Monday- Friday Noon -2pm Courses £4.25, 3 Courses £5.25
Children’s Menu Food served Mon - Sat: Noon-2pm Tues - Sat: 6pm-9pm
Children and Pets welcome Sports TV Wi-Fi Open Noon - 3pm & 5pm - 11.30pm Mon - Thurs 9am - Midnight Fri, Noon - Midnight Sat, Sun Food Served Noon - 2pm & 6pm -9pm Mon - Sat Noon - 8pm Sunday Breakfast served 9am - Noon Fridays 9.30am - Noon Saturdays until September 26th
Secure Play Area Open daily 11.30am - 11pm Sunday Noon - 11pm
Visit our website at www.brilliantpubs.co.uk/risingsuncheshire
The Old Mill
Crewe Rd, Wheelock Canalside at Bridge 152 Tel: 01270 762030
ITALIAN RISTORANTE PIZZERIA
The Old Mill is a Grade II listed wharf building that has been painstakingly restored to retain its original features and character. The building has been imaginatively converted to provide a ground floor themed like an internal garden with exposed brick walls, shuttered windows and luxuriant plants filling wooden window boxes. The first floor dining area is more elegant, with a balcony overlooking the ground floor,. The original wooden wharf hoist wheel has been sympathetically restored and is above the first floor. A cobbled area outside provides al fresco dining during the summer, where you can wine and dine and, with a little imagination coupled with good company, be in the heart of Venice! The Old Mill offers an extensive menu with something to suit all tastes and pockets, from pasta and pizza dishes through to full à la carte meals. The restaurant has a relaxed, informal atmosphere and particular care has been taken to be family friendly. There are high chairs, baby-changing tables, colouring , puzzle and quiz books. The restaurant is very popular so booking is advisable, especially at weekends Visit our website at www.oldmillrestaurant.co.uk
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92 The popular pub for all the family with a big choice of home-cooked food and traditional ales. Pay us a visit soon!
SPECIAL 2 FOR 1 NIGHTS DISCOUNTED STEAKS VEGETARIAN DISHES DAILY SPECIALS BOARD
Open all day every day
Families Welcome
Food served Noon- 9pm every day
Big Outdoor Play Area Children’s Meals
ciaall rs SSppeeci sioonneers PPeennsi s s e e ch Lu Lunnch -Friri Moonn-F m mM p p 4 4 n n o o o o NN
Royal Oak Sandbach Road, Rode Heath 5 mins from Bridge 142 Tel: 01270 875670
All food freshly cooked to order under the supervision of chef/owner Steve using local produce whenever possible.
Traditional Cask-Conditioned Beers including Tetleys, Bass, Bombardier and Broadside.
Always 3 Guest Beers
TRENT & MERSEY CANAL The Trent & Mersey Canal runs from the River Trent at Shardlow through to the Bridgewater Canal at Preston Brook and the section from Great Haywood to Preston Brook covers a little over 54 miles with two remarkable features – the Anderton Boat Lift and the Harecastle Tunnel.
tival Park in Etruria was the site of a garden festival in 1986 on what was formerly the Shelton Steel Works, the canal ran through the middle of the works as shown in the photographs.
From Great Haywood and the Shortly afterwards, we reach the Harejunction with the Staffs & castle Tunnel, constructed in 1827 by Worcs Canal, the canal travels Thomas Telford to replace an earlier tunnel by James north through pleasant countryBrindley. The tunnel is 2897 yards long and is only wide side, passing the charming enough for one boat. Convoys of up to eight boats navigate village of Weston upon Trent the tunnel at any one time and you should follow and on to Stone, a town closely instructions from the tunnel-keeper. connected with canals. Here, the town centre is just a few Just past the tunnel is Hardings Wood Junction with the Macclesminutes walk from the canal and offers an interesting choice of field Canal and the boater is then faced with “Heartbreak Hill” – a shopping and refreshments. sequence of 32 locks that take the canal towards the Cheshire plain, past Hassall Green and Wheelock and on to Middlewich. This is a North of Stone, the canal runs close to the Wedgwood factory and useful spot to stock up on provisions or to take some refreshment then enters Stoke-on-Trent, a and just past Kings Lock is the branch of the Shropshire Union to city created in 1910 from the take you to the main line at Barbridge. union of Burslem, Fenton, Hanley, Longton, Stoke and North of Middlewich, a long lock-free section meanders once again Tunstall. Much of the pottery through pretty countryside around Northwich and on to Anderton industry has now disappeared where the recently re-opened Anderton Boat Lift provides access to but you will still see bottle the River Weaver. The canal then continues towards Dutton and the kilns, warehouses and deserted Preston Brook Tunnel after which the waterway becomes the Bridgefactories echoing the craft water Canal that made Stoke famous. Fes-
Cheddleton Flint Mill
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Canalside at Bridge 42 Cheddleton Flint Mill is a fine example of a water mill that ground flint for the pottery industry. The site features two water mills, a small museum, a period cottage, traditional narrow-boat and many other exhibits.
Comments, Queries, Suggestions
Cheddleton Flint Mill consists of a complex of buildings including two separate water mills, a miller's cottage, two flint kilns, a drying kiln and outbuildings. The Caldon Canal passes by the mill and the Trust owns a traditional narrow-boat, called "Vienna", of the type that would have supplied the mill. The whole complex is considered of great historical importance and has been given Grade II* listed building status by English Heritage.
Please contact HA Communications Tel: 07940 190690 Email: feedback@canalcruisingguide.co.uk
CALDON CANAL
From Etruria with its staircase lock, the canal passes a statue of James Brindley, the mastermind behind the Trent & Mersey Canal, then Hanley Park appears followed by relics of Stoke’s pottery industry. At Ivy House Lift Bridge you have the opportunity to annoy local motorists whilst you pass through and the canal proceeds in to a more rural setting. Milton is a useful place to stock up on provisions as is Stockton Brook where you will find a set of five locks. Passing Endon – look out for the ostriches – the canal approaches the junction with the Leek arm where it passes over the main line at Denford.
37 Cheadle R Cheddle oad to 1 min f n ro m bridge 42 01 5 38 36 94 0
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The canal was opened in 1779 to transport limestone from Froghall and, during the 20th century, gradually deteriorated to the extent that it was no longer navigable by the early 1960s. However a very active group, The Caldon Canal Society, began to renovate the canal and it was re-opened in 1974
The Red Lion
A nal d a tr itio side la n cosy ca al fires e r h it pub w a rm and a w e m o lc e w
T el
The Caldon Canal runs for 17 miles from Etruria and its junction with the Trent & Mersey to its terminus at Froghall whilst a further branch leads on to the outskirts of Leek. It is said by many to be the prettiest canal on the network and, whilst the first few miles might do little to confirm that opinion, as it winds through the Staffordshire Moorlands you may begin to wonder why this canal is not more popular.
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The Mill is open all year round (apart from 25th Dec): Weekends: 2pm - 5pm. Admission is free but donations are very welcome. There is ground floor access for people with mobility difficulties, but it should be noted that some of the site is rather uneven.
Large beer garden Play area Free-range chickens Access to the canal with moorings
r relaxing bistro Enjoy a meal in ou getarian choices, ve Children’s portions, light meals, grills, sandwiches, Sunday Roast al ion dit tra ls, cia daily spe
Dogs welcome in garden - on a lead please Plenty of moorings nearby at Cheddleton Mill Music Nights - phone for details
Open Cheddleton soon appears with a choice of shops and places for refreshment together with the flint mill that will reward a couple of Noon - 3pm and 6pm - 11pm (to Midnight Fri &Sat) Noon - 11pm Sun Food Served hours viewing. Past the village is the Churnett Valley Railway Noon - 2pm & 6pm - 9pm (ex.Tues) Noon - 3pm Sun which runs alongside the canal through charming, peaceful countryside through Consall Forge and on to Froghall where there is a new basin.
All change at the Black Lion Ask any boater about the Caldon Canal and they’re sure to The Black Lion’s menu also offers a fine choice of good-value mention the Black Lion at Consall Forge but they may not be meals to suit all tastes with grills, sizzlers, traditional pub grub too complimentary, as the pub has had a rather checkered and daily specials. The Black Lion Mixed Grill is suitable for those with a hearty appetite or you can enjoy a steak, fish and history as regards its welcome to drinkers. chips, ham and eggs, a lamb shank, the pie of the day and many However, all that has changed since Dean Pearsall took over other dishes. If you’ve still got room for a dessert then how the Black Lion last year and he, and manager Jason, are taking about a good old-fashioned pudding such as Jam Sponge, Treacle Sponge or Spotted Dick? huge steps to make it a “must visit” pub. In a short time they’ve installed free Wi-Fi for customers, created a brand new children’s play area and introduced a grocery shop facility for boaters. What’s more in February this year they held their first Winter Beer Festival which was a great success with over fourteen beers on offer. Some of the ales were delivered by rail, courtesy of the nearby Churnet Valley Railway which also brought many drinkers to the event. And throughout the year there will be a Pie and Pud Night on alternate Tuesdays with acoustic music starting at 9pm - all musicians are welcome to take part. Step inside the Black Lion now and you’ll find a friendly welcome and a cosy atmosphere where you can enjoy real ales and good food. Jason is maintaining a great choice of ever-changing real ales, and beers from the nearby Peakstones Rock Brewery are always available together with a choice of traditional cider.
You’ll also find vegetarian options and a children’s menu that includes a pasta dish, meatballs, and macaroni cheese or, if you are looking for something lighter, there are tasty baguettes and sandwiches on offer. There’s a special offer on Friday evenings too when, between 6pm and 8.30pm, you can enjoy two sirloin steaks and two desserts for just £19.95 and, if a party of four people or more each order a steak meal, they’ll get a free bottle of house wine. Sunday lunch, with a traditional roast, has become very popular so it’s advisable to book in advance. If you’ve never visited the Black Lion before then you’re in for a treat - if you were there in “the bad old days” you’ll be delighted with the change.
Consall Forge, Stoke-on-Trent Canalside at Bridge 49 Tel: 01782 550294 www.blacklionpub.co.uk
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Set in the hills of the Churnet Valley overlooking the Caldon Canal and the Churnet Valley Railway, the Black Lion has a special welcome for boaters with plenty of moorings nearby and free WiFi for customers. We’ve a great choice of real ales and pride ourselves in using the finest ingredients, locally sourced whenever possible, to produce great meals served by friendly staff with a passion for food. Call in soon....... Grocery shop for your essential provisions - email or call us 01782 550294 before 12pm on the evening before you get here and we will have your shopping waiting for you, by no later than 11am Pay Phone Children’s Play Area
ight + & Ptieic N N d ight s u u P Aco ys
uesda alternate T a dessert e pie and Home mad 5
£7.9
2 steak, 2 Desserts £19.95 6pm - 8.30pm
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Open Noon - 11pm Mon - Fri 11am - 11pm Sat 11am-10.30 Sun
Food served from opening time till late
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STONE
It is said that, in the seventh century, the pagan King Wulfhere killed his two sons for practising Christianity and Stone got its name from the cairn erected over their bodies. Today, Stone styles itself as “The Canal Town ” and not without good reason. It was in the town’s Crown Hotel that the first meeting of the Trent & Mersey Canal Company was held in 1776, James Brindley was appointed surveyorgeneral and the company established its headquarters in the town. In addition, the Canal Cruising Company whose base is just north of Star Lock is the oldest holiday hireboat company, having begun business in 1948, and it is still operated by the same family. The town is also almost at the midpoint of the canal being 48 miles from Shardlow and 44 miles from Preston Brook. The canal was a focus for many of the industries that grew up in the town, in particular the number of breweries for which Stone was famous. Most notable was the Joules Brewery that was formed in 1758 and capitalised on the canal to export its products to Europe and America. Since the canal is just 100 yards or so from Stone’s pedestrianised high street, it makes an ideal spot to stock up on provisions and there is a wide range of small, interesting shops and a good choice of eating places with something for all tastes.
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Live Music and Late Bar Every Thursday, Friday + Saturday
Award Winning Italian/English Restaurant Our Secluded Garden Is Colourful By Day - Magical By Night!
The Swan Inn
Real Ale Pub Stone Tel: 01785 815570 myspace.com/swaninnstone Ten Hand Pulls always feature real ales and ciders from all over the British Isles (over 400 different independent breweries have supplied us in the last eight years.) Lunchtime Food Selection of baps & pies served all day every day
Free Sunday Lunch Buffet every week
Live Music Mon, Wed, Thurs & Sat eves
Quiz Night Tuesday
Beer Garden & Real Fires Annual Beer Festival 2nd week July
Open till Midnight Mon-Wed, till 1am Thurs - Sat
Granville Square, Stone Tel: 01785-816658 www.granvilles.st
Wikijum Fairtrade Shop
61 High Street, Stone Tel: 01785 819508
Wide range of foods, gifts, clothes and other interesting things.......... Open daily 9-5, Wed, Thurs - 10-5
ell’s Butchers Russ
High Class Family Butchers
All home-killed meats, farm eggs, poultry. All sausages and cooked meats made on the premises. Mild dry salted home cured bacon. 2 Adies Alley, Stone Tel: 10785 812456
La Dolce Vita offers a welcoming experience, a canalside view and a meal to remember Our à la carte menu is available at lunch and dinner and offers fine Italian and English dishes.
Opening Times Lunch: Mon - Sat 11.30 - 2.00 Dinner: Mon - Sat 6.30 - 10.30 Sunday: Noon - 9.00 Parties Welcome
Call to reserve a table - 01785 817985 19 Stafford St, Stone Canalside at Star Lock No.27
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Run by the Jordan family for more than 50 years
The Greyhound is a traditional country inn set in the beautiful rural village of Burston.
Fresh Fruit & Vegetables Freshly-baked Bread Strawberries in season Locally produced organic meat
Here we offer fine beers and wines together with good home-cooked food and service that ensures that our customers return time and time again. Visit us soon and see for yourself.
plus bedding plants and pot plants Excellent Sunday Roast served all day Lunchtime Specials Tables Bookable Children Welcome Beer Garden All major credit cards accepted
Open daily from 11.30am & 6pm All day Sunday from Noon Food served Noon - 2.30pm & 6pm - 10pm All day Sunday
N Bridge 86
Mill Lane, Great Haywood Canalside North of Lock 22 Tel: 01889 881747
Follow footpath from Bridge 86, past pond and up hill over railway bridge.
Clifford Arms
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Main Road, Great Haywood 200 yards from Bridge 27
Large Beer Garden
The Clifford Arms offers a fine selection of cask-conditioned ales and guest beers together with a wide choice of freshly prepared meals and snacks. The pub has been a popular stopping-off point for boaters for many years - come along and find out why for yourself. Open Mon -Thurs Noon - 11.30pm. Fri, Sat Noon- Midnight, Sun Noon - 11pm Beer Garden Heated Smoking Shelter Children welcome in the pub when dining
Home-cooked food including Steaks and Daily Specials Selection of Curries Balti, Madras, Red Thai Vegetarian and Fish Dishes Children's Menu We’re proud to have received Cask Marque accreditation - awarded to licensees for excellence in the service of cask ale.
We’re in the current CAMRA Good Beer Guide
Families Welcome On the main street in the pretty village of Little Haywood, the Red Lion is popular with boaters and locals, and your host, Robert, greets all customers as old friends. The welcoming bar with its open fire is a great spot to enjoy traditional Banks’s beers plus changing guest ales together with value-for-money food. Call in to see us soon... Open 4.30 pm Monday - Thursday All day Friday, Saturday, Sunday Food served 5.30-7.30 and Noon - 2.30 Friday, Saturday, Sunday And Bank Holidays
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Drop in to Il Marchigiano the plum pudding
Ristorante Italiano and Bar
Wide choice of vegetarian dishes.
Authentic Italian cuisine in contemporary surroundings where chef Giuseppe, using the finest ingredients, creates dishes with a distinctive flavour. We look forward to welcoming you soon
Children’s portions Early Bird Menu - 10% off all meals between 5 & 7pm A la carte menu lunchtime & evenings nthly rday mo .95 tu a S t s a L 24 meal - £ 6 course g bubbly and Includin rtainment live ente
Lunch Light Bite menu Parties welcome - call for details Canalside terrace Sorry - no dogs allowed in restaurant
Il Marchigiano at the Plum Pudding Rugeley Road, Armitage Tel: 01543 490330 Canalside at Bridge 61a Customer moorings Open all day Noon - 11pm April - September Food served Noon - 9pm Please phone to check at other times
Moor at the Plum Pudding and you’ll experience a scene that didn’t exist before the 1970s, for that was when subsidence affected the area and the pub dropped to its present position hence the steps down to Il Marchiagiano, an Italian restaurant that’s well worth a visit. Previously an established English pub, chef Giuseppe Iaconi and his partner Roma took over the Plum Pudding in August last year and they have transformed it into a spacious, modern eatery where Giuseppe puts his individual stamp on traditional Italian dishes. Giuseppe was born and raised in the small hill town of Ripatransone in the heart of Le Marché between the Apennines and the Adriatic. Here the home cook rules rather than the professional chef and even the smartest restaurants seek to produce food like grandmother used to make. Now Giuseppe has brought the recipes passed down through the generations to the Plum Pudding and you can experience classic Italian dishes such as sirloin steak filled with asparagus, parma ham and mozarella in a tomato, port and brandy sauce or a salmon fillet cooked with shallots in a creamy white wine sauce, topped with prawns. There are pasta dishes too and and you can round off your meal with delicious desserts such as zabaglione or lemoncello - a different take on the popular tiramisu. In a short time, Il Marchigiano has become a popular destination for diners and, in January this year, was nominated by British Waterways as one of the top ten waterside pubs in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a “lite bite” or a more substantial meal, Il Marchigiano is sure to fit the bill - do drop in when in Armitage.
STAFFS & WORCS CANAL Own your own copy of the
Copies of the 2009 edition may still be available for purchase or, to register your interest in the 2010 edition, please go to: www.canalcruisingguide.co.uk and click on “Contact” Or call HA Communications Tel: 07940 190690
The Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal – more commonly known as the Staffs & Worcs - was built by James Brindley and opened in 1772. It links the Trent and Mersey at Great Haywood with the River Severn at Stourport and was a useful link from the Potteries to Gloucester and Bristol. The canal runs for just over 20 miles with 12 locks to the junction with the Shropshire Union at Autherley and the BCN at Aldersley Junction. Just after Great Haywood is Tixall Wide and to the South is Shugborough Hall, accessible from Bridge 106 and the canal then skirts around Stafford – the centre of the town is about 1½ miles from Radford Bridge. Continuing South, the canal runs close to the M6 motorway, possibly not the best area to moor overnight, then past Teddesley Park to the East and into the pleasant village of Penkridge – a good place to stop for refreshments or to stock up on provisions. Once again the M6 runs close to the canal until Rodbaston lock when it veers to the West and approaches Gailey Wharf with its interesting round toll-keeper’s watch tower. The canal then passes a chemical works and reaches Hatherton Junction where the Hatherton Branch is in the process of being renovated with a view to making it navigable once again. The canal follows a winding course to Coven, goes under the M54 motorway and then proceeds through the Northern suburbs of Wolverhampton. Just South of Bridge 68 the canal is narrow and there is a passing place so you should keep a look out for approaching boats. Soon after is Autherley where there is a sharp turn to the West for the Shropshire Union or you can continue South towards Stourport or take the BCN to explore the Black Country and Birmingham.
PENKRIDGE
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Penkridge lies just 5 minutes west of Bridge 86 and dates back over a thousand years - when the area was occupied by the Danes. The village grew over the next few centuries thanks, in part, to its sheep and horse fairs but the Black Death in the 15th century saw the beginning of the decline of the area. During the 18th century Penkridge became an important stopping off point for coaches and later the canal and railway brought further prosperity to the village. Penkridge's horse fair was a popular event, attracting dealers and jockeys from all over the country. During this period, the Littletons were the most important family in the area, building the nearby Teddesley Hall. Visitors to the Hall included Handel, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Robert Peel. The early 20th century saw a decrease in the village's population due to losses in the First World War and agricultural workers moving to work in industry in Wolverhampton and Stafford. In the last 50 years the village has begun to grow again but the narrow streets and their names retain much of the historic character of the village. With its mix of shops, pubs, cafes and banks plus a museum in the old jail, Penkridge will reward anyone taking a couple of hours to explore the village.
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The Boat Cannock Road Penkridge 01785 714178
This listed building was originally a Mill House and dates back to 1711. Today, it’s a popular meeting place for locals and boaters who enjoy our good, value-formoney home-cooked food and a great choice of beers. We look forward to welcoming you soon
Full Menu available plus Bar Specials Traditional Home-Cooked Sunday Lunch
ÂŁ6.95*
Open daily 11am-Midnight, Noon-11pm Sunday Food served every day. All day until 9pm from Easter to October
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PENKRIDGE
The Fox & Anchor
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Bob and his team welcome you to this canalside pub serving traditional English food with cask-conditioned ales and a range of fine wines.
Examples from Our Menu*
Penkridge Market
Vegetarian options available
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Russell’s Butchers
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Crown Bridge
Beef and Ale Pie - £7.95 8oz Gammon Steak - £6.95 Chicken & Bacon Sandwich - £4.95 Chocolate Brownies - £3.75 Fish & Chips - £6.95
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Children welcome at all times
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Outdoor seating area
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Open Daily 11am - 11pm (Noon - 10.30pm Sunday) Food served daily Noon - 10pm (9.30 Sundays)
A Vintage Inn
The Fox and Anchor, Coven At Bridge 71 Tel: 01902 798786 *Prices correct at time of printing
The friendly store - popular with boaters and villagers alike - pop in and find out why.
The independent convenience store for all your provisions.
Grocery Store
Newsagents Cashback*
Off Licence
We welcome your nominations for the “Canal Cruising Guide Pub of the Year” *small service charge
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Just go to www.canalcruisingguide.co.uk and click on “Comments”
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Tell us about your favourite pub and why it should win the award. Then in November we’ll select, at random, one lucky reader to receive
High Class Family Butchers All home-killed meats, farm eggs, poultry. All sausages and cooked meats made on the premises. Mild dry salted home-cured bacon. 2 Market Street Penkridge Tel: 01785 714069
Comments, Queries, Suggestions Please contact HA Communications Tel: 07940 190690 Email: feedback@ canalcruisingguide.co.uk
£50 worth of M & S vouchers - you can nominate as many pubs as you like and each time you enter you’ll be increasing your chances of winning the prize.