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Routes from Whixall
Chirk & back
We offer a range of boat sizes with accommodation for two to 12 people.
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The Route
4 nights 
42 miles 
16 hours 
4 locks 
All levels
Chirk & back
Prees Branch From Whixall Marina, you’ll cruise for almost a mile down the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal, negotiating two lift bridges along the way. You’ll transfer onto the Llangollen Canal at Prees Junction. Turn left and you’ll soon see Bettisfield Windmill on your left, next to Cadney Moss.
The Shropshire Lake District Continue cruising, passing Lyneal Moss and Colemere Country Park in the Shropshire Lake District, formed around 12,000 years ago at the end of the Ice Age.
Ellesmere Tunnel Just after Blake Mere, you’ll go through the 87-yard long Ellesmere Tunnel.
Ellesmere Just over three miles further along, you can turn into the Ellesemere Branch and moor up to explore this beautiful medieval market town. As well as its famous Mere, with woodland walks, castle, gardens and Boathouse cafe, there’s a range of places to eat out, including The White Hart and The Red Lion. Turn the boat around at the end of the Ellesmere Arm and then continue on towards Chirk.
Frankton Junction Just over three miles on you’ll pass Frankton Junction, where the Montgomery Canal meets the Llangollen Canal.
New Marton Locks Another 3 miles later you’ll reach the two locks at New Marton, and nearly two miles later you’ll pass the Lion Quays Resort.
Gledrid Nearly a mile later you’ll pass the canalside Poacher’s Pocket pub at Gledrid.
Chirk Bank Half a mile later you’ll pass the canalside Bridge Inn at Chirk Bank, also known as “The Trap”. From Chirk Bank you can walk up the hill to explore the National Trust’s awesome Chirk Castle.
Chirk Aqueduct Cross over the magnificent Chirk Aqueduct, part of the 11-mile section of the canal designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Chirk Aqueduct takes you across the border into Wales, carrying the Lllangollen Canal over the River Ceiriog. There is a massive railway viaduct running alongside it. Turn the boat around in the winding hole straight after the aqueduct, before Chirk Tunnel.
*NB The Llangollen Canal is used to transport drinking water from the River Dee at the Horseshoe Falls at Llangollen to Hurleston Reservoir. So when you head towards Llangollen it takes slightly longer than the return journey as you are going against the flow.
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.
