Staffordshire's Waterways

The scenery in Staffordshire is full of contrasts.
From the natural beauty of Cannock Chase to interesting sandstone outcrops near Kinver - there's no better way to see Staffordshire than from a slow-moving narrowboat. With connections to most of the Midlands' important waterways, the Trent & Mersey Canal is a favourite part of no less than four cruising rings. The -and-worcestershire-canal Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal was built as one of the trunk routes of the canal age and today, it is hugely popular with pleasure boats.

Last but by no means least, the Caldon Canal is arguably EnglandÕs most scenic waterway. Built as a branch of the cross-country Trent & Mersey, this picturesque waterway from Stoke-on-Trent to the heart of Staffordshire has assumed the status of a canal in its own right. Its final miles run through an area known as 'Little Switzerland', with only a preserved steam railway to disturb the peace.
The Caldon runs for 18 miles from Stoke to Froghall, with a three-mile branch to Leek. On leaving the industrial environs of the Potteries, the canal becomes increasingly picturesque as it follows the Churnet Valley - even sharing the river's course for a while.

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