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Routes from Bunbury

Norbury & back

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We offer a range of boat sizes with accommodation for two to 12 people.

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The Route

7 nights
58 miles
31 hours
58 locks
All levels
Norbury & back

Barbridge Junction Head south from our Bunbury base and just under three miles later you’ll reach Barbridge Junction. Here the Middlewich Branch meets the Shropshire Union Canal main line. And it’s home to the popular canalside Olde Barbridge Inn. Continue cruising down the main line.

Hurleston Junction Just over a mile later, you’ll pass Hurleston Junction, where the Llangollen Canal connects with the Shropshire Union Canal main line. Continue cruising along the main line.

Nantwich Aqueduct Two miles later you’ll reach Nantwich Aqueduct, taking the canal over the Chester to Nantwich Road, with great views across the town.

Hack Green Two miles on from Nantwich, you’ll reach the two locks at Hack Green. Moor up after the locks and you can walk to the fascinating Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker Museum.

Audlem Three miles later you’ll reach the top of the 15 locks at Audlem. And the iconic Shroppie Fly pub is next to Lock 13.

Adderley Locks A mile after the last of the 15 locks at Audlem, you’ll reach the top of the Adderley flight of five locks.

Betton Cutting Just over a mile after Adderley Locks, you’ll enter Betting Cutting, one of a series of deep canal cuttings, full of vegetation and wildlife.

Market Drayton Famous for its gingerbread, the historic town of Market Drayton has a great choice of places to eat, drink and shop, including regular markets.

Tyrley Locks About one mile outside Market Drayton, you’ll reach the flight of five locks at Tyrley.

Woodeaves Cutting Soon after Tyrley Locks you’ll enter the atmospheric Woodeaves Cutting. Full of vegetation and away from the modern world, it’s like stepping back in time.

Goldstone Wharf Just outside Woodeaves Cutting you’ll reach Goldstone Common and the canalside Wharf Tavern.

Cadbury’s Wharf Three miles later you’ll pass the former Cadbury’s Wharf at Knighton, where milk was once processed into chocolate crumb and then transported by canal boat to Cadbury’s main site at Bournville.

Shebdon Aqueduct Less than a mile later you’ll cross Shebdon Aqueduct and you’ll pass the canalside Wharf Inn.

Loynton Moss Almost two miles later you’ll enter Grub Street Cutting and you’ll pass the Staffordshire Wildlife Trust’s Loynton Moss Nature Reserve.

Norbury Wharf Just over a mile later you’ll reach Norbury Junction, home of the popular Junction Inn. You can turn the boat ready to make the return journey.

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.