According to various sources, cruising time to complete the Four Counties Ring is between 55 & 65 hours. So about 10 days of 5.5 hours per day. Can be done in a week when daylight permits.
If you're a crew of 3 or more, this might be accomplished a little quicker.
Also consider busy times of year when you might have to wait at locks.
Lock Gates
Tunnel Aqueduct
Embark on a tranquil and scenic journey through the heart of England and explore the beauty of the Four Counties Ring. This enchanting combination of waterways, winds its way through Staffordshire, Cheshire, Shropshire, and the West Midlands, offering a delightful experience for boaters and nature enthusiasts. Here's your comprehensive guide to this charming canal route.
Introduction
The Four Counties Ring, combines the Shropshire Union Canal, Shropshire Union Canal Middlewich Branch, Trent & Mersey Canal and the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. It is a network of canals that spans four counties in England. This 110-mile stretch of navigable waterways offers a diverse range of landscapes and attractions, making it a must-visit destination for canal enthusiasts.
Getting Started
There are lots of potential starting points and this might depend on whether you own a boat or you are hiring one. To begin your journey along the Four Counties Canal Route, you'll need a canal boat or cruiser. Several rental companies along or very near to the FCR offer boats for hire, making it accessible for both experienced boaters and beginners.
Suggested Route
Shropshire Union Canal
Starting Point: Autherley Junction
Your journey commences at Autherley Junction, located near Wolverhampton. This is where the Shropshire Union Canal joins the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. From here, you'll could head north towards the picturesque village of Brewood.
29 Locks along this section.
Brewood: A Lovely Village
Brewood is a charming stopover along the route, known for its Georgian architecture and welcoming pubs. Take a stroll through the village, enjoy a traditional English meal, and explore the historic St. Mary's Church.
Deep into the Countryside
As you cruise further, you'll be immersed in the lush greenery and tranquility of the countryside. The canal meanders through woodlands and fields, providing a serene and peaceful journey.
Market Drayton: The Gingerbread Town
One of the highlights of this route is Market Drayton, famously known as the "Gingerbread Town." Be sure to visit the annual Ginger and Spice Festival if your journey coincides with it. There's a host of shops and floating market with lots of Gingery Goodies.
You can also explore the town's rich history and vibrant market.
Audlem: A Waterways Hub
Audlem is a hub for canal enthusiasts and boaters. Here, you can restock supplies, enjoy local cuisine, and perhaps attend one of the many canal festivals held throughout the year.
Last Stop before the Middlewich Branch: Nantwich
Visit the charming market town of Nantwich. Explore the historic streets, visit the Nantwich Museum, and discover the town's unique Tudor-style architecture.
The Shropshire Union (Middlewich Branch)
A ten mile stretch joining the Shropshire Union Canal to the Trent & Mersey Canal. Very rural and with many scenic & picturesque views. Plenty of nice quiet mooring points. Highly recommend Aqueduct Marina for refuelling, pump out, water and a lovely cafe plus a well stocked chandlery.
Only 4 Locks along this section.
The Trent & Mersey Canal
About 40 miles of this canal which, along the way, passes through Sandbach, Rode Heath, Burslem and the renowned Pottery town of Stoke-on-Trent. Josiah Wedgwood country with museums and amazing sightseeing from the Etruria area.
Lots of great pubs, sightseeing, souvenirs and many more great reasons to stop over.
48 Locks along this section and the amazing Harecastle Tunnel which is 2926 yards long.
Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal
A little over 20 miles of this canal joins the Trent & Mersey to the Shropshire Union Canal.
Skirting through the South East part of Stafford and meandering from Great Heywood to Autherley Junction.
12 Locks along this section.
Things to Do
Boating: Naturally, boating is the primary activity along the Four Counties Canal Route. Whether you're navigating the locks or simply enjoying a leisurely cruise, the journey itself is a rewarding experience.
Cycling and Walking: The towpaths alongside the canal are perfect for cyclists and walkers. You can explore the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike.
Fishing: The canal is home to a variety of fish, making it a great spot for anglers. Be sure to obtain the necessary permits and follow local fishing regulations.
Bird-watching: The canal and its adjacent habitats attract a wide range of bird species, offering a paradise for birdwatchers.
Canal Festivals: Check the local event calendar for canal festivals and gatherings. They offer a unique insight into the canal culture and are often a fun and family-friendly experience.
The Four Counties Ring is a hidden gem in the heart of England. It offers a peaceful and picturesque journey through stunning countryside and vibrant towns. Whether you're an experienced boater or a landlubber looking for a unique adventure, this canal route promises a delightful and memorable experience that captures the essence of rural England.
Users of the information displayed in this website or in websites linked to directly or indirectly, do so on the basis that it is a guide only. I Do Canals or its directors, partners or associates do not accept any responsibility for inaccuracies, omissions, costs incurred or disappointments of any kind what-so-ever. It is the users responsibility to check directly with any services, displayed, listed or linked to in or from this website, or associated parties with regards to (but not limited to) directions, costs, facilities, services, hospitality, availability, accommodation, etc. There is no implied recommendation for any of the entries or firms listed, nor is any criticism implied for any entry or firm not yet listed.
We have added 103 Waterways and there are 2685 entries listed and displayed on our maps and/or the resource pages:
Waterways Resources -
Boat Build & Fit Out -
Waterside Attractions. We continue to add items on a very regular basis.
Many entries have several services on offer, on average 5 services (some have many more). This means there are approx. 5 x the number of services listed.
