Red Bull - Church Lawtonon the Trent & Mersey Canal

Location on the Trent & Mersey Canal

The Red Bull is situated alongside the Trent & Mersey Canal near the southern end of the Harecastle Tunnel. This section of canal forms a key link between the Potteries and the Cheshire countryside and is regularly used by leisure boats travelling between Stoke-on-Trent and Middlewich.

The Red Bull at Church Lawton is a well-known canal-side pub located directly on the Trent & Mersey Canal in the village of Church Lawton, Cheshire. With its immediate waterside position, historic setting, and close proximity to one of the canal’s most significant engineering features, it is a popular stop for narrowboat crews, walkers, and visitors exploring this historic waterway.

Set against open countryside and canal infrastructure, the Red Bull offers a classic canal pub experience on a busy and much-loved cruising route.

The pub’s location makes it an ideal stopping point for:

• Boaters preparing to enter or having just exited Harecastle Tunnel
• Crew looking for food and refreshment after a long cruising day
• Towpath walkers and cyclists
• Visitors exploring the canal heritage of the area

The Trent & Mersey Canal at Church Lawton

The Trent & Mersey Canal was completed in 1777 and engineered by James Brindley, creating a vital inland route linking the River Trent with the River Mersey. This allowed pottery, coal, and manufactured goods to be transported efficiently during the Industrial Revolution.

At Church Lawton, the canal passes through a landscape shaped by industry and engineering, with the nearby Harecastle Tunnel standing as one of the canal’s most famous features.

A Popular Stop for Canal Boaters

The Red Bull has long been regarded as a reliable and welcoming stop for canal boaters. Visitor moorings are available close by, allowing crews to step ashore and enjoy a break from cruising.

Why Boaters Choose the Red Bull

• Immediate access from canal-side moorings
• Convenient location near Harecastle Tunnel
• A traditional pub atmosphere
• A natural pause point on the Trent & Mersey Canal

It is common to see narrowboats moored nearby, particularly during busy cruising seasons.

Food, Drink, and Atmosphere

The Red Bull offers a traditional pub environment, popular with both visitors and local residents. Inside, it provides a warm and informal setting, while outside seating allows guests to enjoy views of the canal and passing boats.

Key features include:

• A selection of beers, ales, and soft drinks
• Classic pub meals and hearty portions
• Canal-side outdoor seating
• A relaxed, friendly atmosphere

The constant activity on the canal adds to the pub’s character and appeal.

Walking, Cycling, and Canal Heritage

The towpath around Church Lawton is popular with walkers and cyclists, offering easy access to countryside routes and historic canal features.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Views of the Trent & Mersey Canal infrastructure
• Wildlife including ducks, swans, and water birds
• Links to longer walking and cycling routes

The area combines industrial heritage with a quieter rural setting.

Why the Red Bull, Church Lawton Is a Canal Favourite

• Directly beside the Trent & Mersey Canal
• Close to Harecastle Tunnel
• Popular with narrowboat crews and walkers
• Traditional canal-side pub atmosphere
• Located on a historic cruising route

Conclusion

The Red Bull in Church Lawton is a classic waterside pub on the Trent & Mersey Canal, offering boaters and visitors a welcoming place to relax beside one of Britain’s most important historic waterways. Whether stopping before tackling Harecastle Tunnel, enjoying a towpath walk, or simply watching boats pass by, the Red Bull remains a valued and well-placed landmark on this iconic canal.