Boat Street Cafe and Mercia Swan Boat Tripsa Perfect Stop at Mercia Marina on the Trent & Mersey Canal

For those exploring the Trent & Mersey Canal, a stop at Mercia Marina in Willington is a must.

This vibrant marina is home to a variety of shops, dining options, and boating experiences – with two standout attractions being the Boat Street Cafe and the Mercia Swan Boat Trips. Whether you’re a narrowboater mooring overnight, a day visitor, or a towpath walker, these two experiences make Mercia Marina a memorable destination.

The Boat Street Cafe – Waterside Refreshments

The Boat Street Cafe sits right at the heart of Mercia Marina, offering visitors a chance to relax and enjoy delicious food and drinks with stunning waterfront views. For boaters on the Trent & Mersey Canal, it’s the perfect place to recharge before setting off on the next stage of their journey.

What to Expect:

• Freshly brewed coffee, teas, and refreshing cold drinks.
• Tasty breakfast, lunch, and light bites made with care.
• Homemade cakes and sweet treats ideal for a mid-cruise break.
• Relaxed, welcoming atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating.

With its picturesque location overlooking the boats, the cafe is popular with boaters, walkers, cyclists, and local visitors alike.

Mercia Swan Boat Trips – Explore the Canal by Water

For those who want to experience the Trent & Mersey Canal from the water, Mercia Swan Boat Trips is a fantastic choice. Departing directly from Mercia Marina, these trips give visitors a unique way to discover the beauty and tranquillity of the waterways without needing their own boat.

Highlights of Mercia Swan Boat Trips:

• Relaxing cruises through the peaceful Derbyshire countryside.
• Opportunities to spot wildlife along the towpath and in the water.
• Knowledgeable skippers offering insight into canal history and local landmarks.
• A gentle pace, ideal for families, groups, and anyone looking to unwind.

Whether you’re new to canal life or a seasoned boater looking for a change of pace, these cruises provide a wonderful perspective on the Trent & Mersey Canal.

Mercia Marina – A Destination for Canal Boaters

The Trent & Mersey Canal has long been one of the most important routes in Britain’s inland waterways, and Mercia Marina has developed into a thriving hub for canal users. With moorings for hundreds of boats, a selection of waterside shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities, it’s much more than just a marina – it’s a canalside village.

For boaters, Mercia Marina is an ideal stopping point thanks to:

• Modern facilities and secure moorings.
• Easy access to local services and supplies.
• Great dining options like the Boat Street Cafe.
• Leisure activities including the Mercia Swan Boat Trips.

Why Canal Boaters Love Stopping Here

Many narrowboaters and widebeam cruisers on the Trent & Mersey Canal build Mercia Marina into their journey plans because it offers the perfect mix of practical services and leisure enjoyment. Whether it’s topping up supplies, enjoying a relaxing coffee, or booking a boat trip for friends and family, the marina has something for everyone.

Final Thoughts
The Boat Street Cafe and Mercia Swan Boat Trips capture what makes canal life so special – a mix of community, relaxation, and exploration. For anyone travelling along the Trent & Mersey Canal, stopping at Mercia Marina is highly recommended. From tasty treats at the cafe to peaceful cruises aboard the Mercia Swan, this destination showcases the very best of canalside life.