Discover the Llangollen Canal
The Llangollen Canal covers some 46 miles and passes through the spectacular and varied landscape of Shropshire, Wales and Cheshire. It was recently made famous by Harrison Ford who spent his summer holiday accompanied by Calista Flockhart, cruising the canal and experiencing the peace and tranquillity of a canal boat holiday.
Unspoilt beauty
Travelling by canal boat at a leisurely, relaxed pace of 4 miles per hour, is the ideal way to travel and discover Shropshire at its best. The Shropshire section of the canal takes in some wonderful countryside with cruising the canal or simply walking along the towpath the best way to discover the unspoilt beauty of the area including nearby attractions ranging from country parks to meres and mosses, local wildlife and pretty market towns.
Must sees
Must sees along the way include the superb staircase locks at Grindley Brook, near Whitchurch. A set of six locks, three of which make-up the staircase, it’s the only one of its kind on the Llangollen Canal. Nearby Ellesmere, a pretty Georgian market town, is actually the birthplace of the Llangollen Canal as Thomas Telford designed the canal from his offices in the town.
Magnificent views
Travelling up the canal towards the Llangollen section will bring you to a 700 Marcher Fortress at nearby Chirk Castle and then to two of the most spectacular features of the Canal, Chirk Aqueduct and Pontycyllte Aqueduct. Both were built by Thomas Telford with Pontycyllte standing proud at nearly 130ft high. Both have magnificent views but be warned, a strong stomach is a prerequisite!
Pubs, inns and restaurants can be found along the way too, allowing you to sample local food and drink.