Whixall Marina

Alders Lane, Whixall, Shropshire, SY13 2QS

Located on the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal, Whixall is arguably Britain’s most rural marina.

One of the many attractions of Whixall is its proximity to the picturesque Llangollen Canal. Just a half hour cruise to join the main line then you decide to turn left for Llangollen itself, or right to Hurleston Junction and join the Shropshire Union Canal. Having chosen the left turn you are initially rewarded with seven miles of quiet winding canal leading into the aptly named market town of Ellesmere.

Nineteen miles and only two locks later you have reached the historic town of Llangollen, with its many attractions. There are three stunning canal features to add excitement to your journey. Chirk Aqueduct takes you across the border into North Wales, followed by the 459 yards single width Chirk Tunnel, and then the jewel in the crown of the whole canal network. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct sits 126 feet above the River Dee and is single width for its 1007 feet length. If you prefer a more active holiday head to Chester.

A pretty countryside cruise, passing through the market town of Whitchurch, brings you to Grindley Brook flight of six locks with a 3-tier staircase descending through 20 feet.

There is a lock keeper on hand to guide and help you. Six miles to relax before your next challenge, Wrenbury Lift Bridge. This bridge is electrically operated, for which you will need your waterways key. The bridge carries the road into an industrial estate and stopping the traffic at factory finishing time is not advisable – you will not be popular!

A sharp left turn at Hurleston Junction guides you onto the Shropshire Union Canal and a northerly heading towards Chester.

The double width staircase lock at Bunbury, adjacent to the Anglo Welsh base, only interrupts the flat green fields of the Cheshire Plain. Upon reaching the ancient city of Chester the famous attractions abound. The cathedral, castle, racecourse, Roman walls, zoo and of course bars and restaurants offer a choice for all tastes.

Whichever cruise you choose, serene or lively, you are assured of a warm welcome from the team at Whixall.