Depending on which departure point you choose, you can explore sections of the Stratford Canal and maybe a section of one of the waterways that connects to it.
Completed 200 years ago to transport coal, this beautiful rural waterway running through the Forest of Arden, is now a popular leisure destination and a haven for wildlife.
The southern section of this narrow canal, runs from the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon up to the village of Lapworth, where it meets the Grand Union Canal, with 35 locks and three aqueducts along the way.
The northern section has 19 locks running up from Lapworth, and then a 10-mile lock-free stretch to Brandwood Tunnel and the canal’s junction with the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Kings Norton. It takes around 15 hours to cruise the whole canal.
What can you See & Do in a weekend?
On a relaxing three-night break, you can cruise through the beautiful Warwickshire countryside to moor up at Bancroft Basin in the heart of Stratford-on-Avon and visit Shakespeare Birthplace Trust attractions.
Or travel through the beautiful Warwickshire Countryside via the canal village of Lapworth to enjoy country walks, village pubs and visits to historic houses onwards to Wootton Wawen and then back, passing through the pretty village of Wilmcote and across the magnificent Edstone Aqueduct.
What can you See & Do in a week?
Cruise through classic English countryside, passing through sleepy canalside villages to visit Warwick Castle, said to be Britain’s greatest medieval experience.
Or travel to Shakespeare’s Stratford to visit the famous Swan Theatre, Shakespeare’s Birthplace and enjoy drinking and dining at traditional pubs and tea rooms.
What can you See & Do in 10 nights?
Cruise the entire length of the Stratford Canal, passing through the Forest of Arden and on up to Birmingham, with many cultural gems to explore, including the world’s most important collection of Pre-Raphaelite art at the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery.
With more canals than Venice, travelling gently along by canal boat is the best way to explore Britain’s exciting second City.
Things to see & do
From quiet country pubs and village churches, to exciting historic attractions where history and culture come to life, you’ll find plenty of places to visit on your canal journey.
