Stanley Arms, AndertonCanal Boat Friendly Pub on the Trent and Mersey Canal

Location on the Trent and Mersey Canal

The Stanley Arms is situated in the village of Anderton, just a short walk from the Trent and Mersey Canal and the Anderton Boat Lift complex. Its position makes it particularly attractive to canal boat users exploring this historic stretch of waterway.

The Stanley Arms in Anderton is a popular and well-positioned pub for canal boat users cruising the Trent and Mersey Canal. Located close to one of the most famous landmarks on the inland waterways, Anderton Boat Lift, this traditional pub offers a convenient and welcoming stop for narrowboat crews travelling through Cheshire.

For boaters navigating between Middlewich, Northwich, and the wider Trent and Mersey Canal network, the Stanley Arms provides an ideal place to pause, moor nearby, and enjoy food and drink after a day on the cut.

Why the location works for boaters:

• Close to Anderton Boat Lift and visitor centre
• Easy access from canal-side moorings
• Convenient stopping point between Middlewich and Northwich
• Quiet village setting away from heavy road traffic

Mooring Near the Stanley Arms

While the pub is not directly on the towpath, there are good visitor moorings on the Trent and Mersey Canal near Anderton, particularly around the Anderton Boat Lift and the surrounding canal infrastructure.

Mooring information for canal boat users:

• CRT visitor moorings within walking distance
• Suitable for overnight stops
• Popular during peak cruising season
• Ideal base for visiting the boat lift and local attractions

Boaters often combine a stop at the Stanley Arms with a visit to the lift or a crew rest day.

Why Canal Boaters Choose the Stanley Arms

The Stanley Arms has long been a familiar pub for both locals and visiting boat crews. After navigating locks or planning a passage via the River Weaver connection, it offers a relaxed environment to unwind.

• Traditional pub atmosphere
• Food and drinks suitable for boating crews
• Welcoming to walkers and canal users
• Comfortable stop after a cruising day

It’s especially popular with crews waiting for, or returning from, trips involving the Anderton Boat Lift.

Anderton Boat Lift and Nearby Attractions

The Stanley Arms benefits from being close to one of the most significant engineering structures on Britain’s waterways.

Nearby highlights for canal boat users include:

• Anderton Boat Lift – connecting the Trent and Mersey Canal to the River Weaver
• Visitor centre, museum, and café
• Scenic walks along the Weaver Navigation
• Open countryside and riverside views

This makes Anderton a popular place for a longer stop rather than a simple overnight mooring.

The Trent and Mersey Canal Experience at Anderton

The Trent and Mersey Canal around Anderton is a busy and historic section of the route. It sees regular traffic from narrowboats completing long-distance cruises, short breaks, and canal rings.

For canal boat users, the area offers:

• Well-maintained locks and infrastructure
• Connections to the River Weaver
• Plenty of visitor interest
• Good balance of rural and industrial heritage scenery

Best Times for Boaters to Visit

The Stanley Arms and nearby moorings are busiest during spring and summer, especially on weekends and during holiday periods.

Canal boat users often plan stops:

• Before or after using the Anderton Boat Lift
• As a lunch or evening stop while cruising
• For a rest day combined with sightseeing

Arriving earlier in the day can help secure nearby mooring space.

Why the Stanley Arms Works Well for Canal Boat Users

• Close to the Trent and Mersey Canal
• Walking distance from visitor moorings
• Near the Anderton Boat Lift
• Traditional pub ideal for boating crews
• Good stop on a major cruising route

Conclusion

The Stanley Arms in Anderton is a reliable and welcoming pub for canal boat users on the Trent and Mersey Canal. Its proximity to visitor moorings, historic attractions, and one of the most famous canal structures in Britain makes it a natural stopping point for narrowboat crews. Whether pausing for a meal, an evening drink, or a longer stay to explore Anderton, the Stanley Arms remains a valued part of the canal cruising experience.