The Kings Lock Inn - MiddlewichClassic Canal-Side Pub on the Trent & Mersey Canal

Location on the Trent & Mersey Canal

The Kings Lock Inn sits alongside the canal near the Middlewich Big Lock area, one of the most important junction zones on the Trent & Mersey Canal. This section connects directly with the Shropshire Union Canal Middlewich Branch, making it a strategic and popular location for boaters.

The Kings Lock Inn is a well-known waterside pub located in Middlewich, Cheshire, directly beside the Trent & Mersey Canal. Positioned close to the historic Middlewich locks, it is a firm favourite with canal boat users cruising this busy and characterful section of the waterway.

With its traditional pub atmosphere, convenient moorings nearby, and prime canal-side setting, The Kings Lock Inn is an ideal stopping point for narrowboat crews navigating through the heart of Middlewich.

Why this location works so well for canal boat users:

• Directly beside the Trent & Mersey Canal
• Close to Middlewich locks and junctions
• Easy access from the towpath
• Ideal pause point during lock flights

The pub is frequently used as a rest stop while working through the locks.

The Trent & Mersey Canal at Middlewich

The Trent & Mersey Canal, completed in the late 18th century and engineered by James Brindley, was built to link the Potteries of Staffordshire with the River Trent and national waterways. Middlewich became a vital canal town thanks to its salt industry and junction connections.

For canal boat users, Middlewich offers:

• Access to multiple cruising routes
• A lively canal town atmosphere
• Historic locks and bridges
• Numerous services and amenities

The Kings Lock Inn sits right at the centre of this historic canal activity.

Mooring Near The Kings Lock Inn

Visitor moorings are available along the Trent & Mersey Canal close to The Kings Lock Inn, allowing narrowboat crews to moor within easy walking distance.

Mooring highlights include:

• Short walk from boat to pub
• Popular stopping point for lunch or overnight stays
• Convenient during lock operations
• Close to Middlewich town centre

Due to its popularity, moorings can be busy during peak cruising season.

Food and Drink for Canal Boat Users

The Kings Lock Inn is known for its friendly, no-nonsense pub atmosphere that appeals strongly to canal boaters.

Why boaters enjoy stopping here:

• Traditional pub interior
• Hearty meals and a wide drinks selection
• Welcoming environment for boat crews
• Canal-side views and outdoor seating

It’s a great place to relax after a long cruising day or a flight of locks.

Middlewich – A Historic Canal Town

Middlewich is one of the most important canal towns in Cheshire, shaped by salt production and its strategic canal connections.

From The Kings Lock Inn, visitors can easily access:

• Middlewich town centre
• Local shops and services
• Canal junctions and lock flights
• Walking routes along both canals

The area offers a lively contrast to quieter rural stretches of the canal.

Why The Kings Lock Inn Is Popular with Canal Boat Users

• Located directly on the Trent & Mersey Canal
• Close to major locks and junctions
• Convenient moorings nearby
• Traditional, boater-friendly pub atmosphere
• Ideal stop when cruising through Middlewich

Conclusion

The Kings Lock Inn in Middlewich is a classic canal-side pub that perfectly suits the needs of canal boat users on the Trent & Mersey Canal. Its central location, close proximity to locks and moorings, and welcoming atmosphere make it a natural stopping point for narrowboat crews. Whether pausing for refreshment or mooring overnight, it remains one of Middlewich’s most reliable and well-loved waterside pubs.