Great Haywood

Mill Lane, Great Haywood, Stafford, ST18 0RJ

If you’re the kind of person who likes lots of choices, then this is the base for you. We’re situated on the crossroads (or should that be cross canals?) of the Staffordshire and Worcester and Trent and Mersey, so your first decision will be which way to go – and that depends on the cruising criteria.

Head north on the Trent and Mersey and you’ll join the Caldon Canal, taking you to Froghall. Why is Froghall important? Well, Alton Towers theme park is only a short bus ride away, so if you’re in the mood for a thrilling, mind- boggling, gravity-defying experience, remember to book your tickets in advance. Then you can come back to your boat to get your head (and body) back into ‘slow, relaxing, chilling out mode.’ You could always not tell the children how close you are in the first place…

The beautiful Tixall Wide is just 15 minutes cruise from the base where the canal opens up to the size of a lake. It was commissioned by the landowner in the early 1770s who wanted to enjoy a better view from his estate. We say thankyou to him as we now have a beautiful expanse of water where wildlife flourishes.

Further along the Staffordshire and Worcester canal you’ll come across Victorian Wightwick Manor with complete William Morris interiors and colourful garden – and Kinver Edge with its unique rock-carved houses. Both just a short walk from the canal and well worth a visit.

As well as access to the four major ‘Rings’, the area is rich in history and heritage – stately homes, castles, gardens, pretty villages and welcoming traditional pubs…the perfect respite (and ‘rest bite’) after a hard day cruising!

For further information please consult the Pearson (P) or Nicholson (N) Guides indicated above and found here.