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Routes from Great Haywood
Froghall & back
We offer a range of boat sizes with accommodation for two to 12 people.
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The Route
7 nights 
70 miles 
46 hours 
70 locks 
All levels
Froghall & back
NB The route to Froghall is suitable only for boats 64ft or under.
Weston Head north up the Trent & Mersey Canal from Great Haywood and you’ll soon reach the village of Weston with The Woolpack and Saracen’s Head pubs.
Stone Next continue north through the quiet meadows of the Trent Valley. At Aston Bridge you’ll reach the outskirts of the historic market town of Stone. Famous for its annual food and drink festival, Stone has a great choice of shops, pubs and restaurants. There are visitor moorings at Westbridge Park, opposite the Swan pub, and further along past the Star pub on the left.
Barlaston Cruise on through the Staffordshire countryside and you’ll find the popular Plume of Feathers pub next to the canal at Barlaston.
World of Wedgewood Just before Trentham Lock, you can stop to explore the World of Wedgwood, with a factory tour, afternoon tea in the Wedgewood tea room, woodland walks and award winning museum housing a UNESCO protected collection.
Etruria Just under 5 miles later, after travelling through the Stoke flights of 5 locks, the canal reaches its junction with the Caldon Canal at Etruria. Here you can moor up to visit the Etruria Industrial Museum, Spode Visitor Centre and the Waterworld indoor aqua park.
Caldon Canal Transfer onto the Caldon Canal and go through the Etruria Staircase Locks.
Stoke-on-Trent You can moor up at Bridge 8 to walk into Stoke-on-Trent and visit the Potteries Shopping Centre, Bridgewater Factory shop or the Repertory Theatre.
Stockton Brook Continuing on, the route becomes increasingly rural and you’ll pass the canalside Sportsman pub at Stockton Brook.
Hazelhurst Junction When you reach Hazelhurst Junction, follow the stretch through Hazelhurst Locks then go under Hazelhurst Aqueduct, which carries the Leek branch of the Caldon Canal to Leek.
Denford Heading south through the Staffordshire countryside, you’ll pass the Hollybush Inn at Denford and soon after Deep Hayes Country Park.
Cheddleton Travelling alongside the River Churnet through beautiful countryside, you’ll soon reach Cheddleton. Here you can visit the little Flint Mill Museum, shops, the Black Lion pub and Old School Tearooms and Craft Centre. Cheddleton is also the headquarters of the Churnet Valley Steam Railway.
Consall Forge Next you’ll reach the village of Consall Forge, with its Black Lion pub and Consall Nature Reserve.
Froghall The channel then narrows and the canal runs through densely wooded hills. Turn your boat around in the winding hole before the 69-metre long Froghall Tunnel, which is unusually narrow and low so most boats aren’t able to pass through. The winding hole accommodates boats up to 64ft long. Walk to Froghall Wharf, where you’ll find Hetty’s Tea Rooms. Return to Great Haywood.
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.
