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Routes from Wootton Wawen
The Birmingham Mini-Ring
We offer a range of boat sizes with accommodation for two to 12 people.
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The Route
7 nights 
48 miles 
33 hours 
84 locks 
All levels
The Birmingham Mini-Ring
Wootton Wawen Head north along the Stratford Canal, cruising though the Warwickshire countryside and remains of the Forest of Arden.
Barrel roof cottages There’s a pretty barrel roof cottage next to lock no.37, built by engineers more accustomed to building bridges than houses who adapted the techniques they knew best to house the men who worked on the canal.
Yardingdale There’s another barrel roof cottage at lock 34 in the tiny hamlet of Yarningdale Common and the Grade II* listed Yarningdale Aqueduct.
Lowsonford Continue meandering through the countryside before reaching the village of Lowsonford, with its canalside Fleur dy Lys pub, famous for its pies.
Lapworth Soon after, the canal passes beneath the M40 motorway. At Lapworth junction you take the Lapworth link to connect onto the broad Grand Union Canal at Kingswood Junction. Turn left and moor up if you’d like to explore the village of Lapworth.
Baddesley Clinton The Heart of England Way connects to the Grand Union Canal at Kingswood Bridge no.65, next to the Navigation Inn. From there it’s a short walk to the National Trust’s Baddesley Clinton house and gardens.
Heronfield Cruise north along the Grand Union Canal towards Birmingham. The King’s Arms at Heronfield is canalside before you reach the Knowle flight of locks.
Catherine de Barnes Continue on through the countryside, passing under the M42 motorway before reaching the Boat Inn at Catherine de Barnes.
Solihull Pass through Solihull and the outskirts of Birmingham.
Bordesley Junction Go down the Camp Hill locks and you’ll reach Bordesley Junction.
Aston Junction Continue past Typhoo Basin, through Ashsted Locks to Aston Junction. Turn onto the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal and go through the Farmer’s Bridge Locks.
Farmer’s Bridge Junction At Farmer’s Bridge Junction, turn to moor up in Gas Street Basin, giving easy access to Brindleyplace and city centre attractions.
Edgbaston Head down the Worcester & Birmingham Canal through Edgbaston Tunnel, close to Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens.
Cadbury World Soon after you’ll go through Bournville and Cadbury World.
Kings Norton Junction Transfer onto the North Stratford Canal at Kings Norton Junction, via the famous guillotine lock, and then go through Brandwood Tunnel. It’s quiet and rural here and once past the Wharf Inn at Hockley Heath, you aren’t far from the National Trust’s Packwood House.
Lapworth Locks Go through the Lapworth Locks and you’ll be back at Lapworth Junction. Head back down the Stratford Canal to Wootton Wawen.
FAQs
What are the best routes for canal boat holiday beginners?
Anglo Welsh offers a variety of beginner-friendly routes across the UK. From the historic beauty of the Kennet & Avon Canal to the scenic Llangollen Canal, there’s something for everyone. Routes without too many locks tend to be best for beginners. Our team can recommend a route tailored to your interests and the duration of your holiday.
Where can I moor overnight and what does it cost?
There are plenty of places to moor your canal boat for free along towpaths, making overnight stops flexible and stress-free. If you prefer additional facilities like water, electricity, or secure mooring, some marinas charge a small fee. Our team can provide route advice, including the best mooring spots along your journey.
How easy is it to operate locks?
Operating locks is a fun part of the canal boat holiday experience, and it’s easier than you might think. During your handover, we’ll explain how to safely work locks. You’ll quickly get the hang of it, and there’s always help at busy locks if you need it.
