The Moat House, Acton TrusselA Timeless Waterside Retreat on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal

A Dining and Hospitality Landmark on One of Britain’s Oldest Canals

Set beside a peaceful stretch of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, The Moat House in Acton Trussel is one of the most picturesque and historic waterside destinations on the entire waterway. With its elegant building, manicured gardens, and tranquil canal-side setting, it has long been a favourite stop for narrowboaters, walkers, cyclists, and visitors seeking quality dining and a refined atmosphere close to the water.

The Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, completed in 1772 and engineered by James Brindley, flows gently past Acton Trussel, and The Moat House sits perfectly alongside it. The location has been welcoming travellers for centuries, originally serving as a stopping point for those moving between the Midlands and the West Country.

Today, it remains a standout destination for canal users looking for something a little more special.

Perfect for Boaters and Canal Explorers

The Moat House is ideally placed for canal users, offering:

• Easy access from the towpath
• Nearby visitor moorings along a calm, scenic pound
• A peaceful rural setting just south of Stafford
• A relaxed stop between Penkridge and Autherley

Boaters often plan overnight stops here to enjoy an evening meal or a leisurely lunch before continuing their journey.

Elegant Dining with Canal Views
Dining at The Moat House is a refined experience, with menus that typically focus on:

• Fresh, seasonal British produce
• Carefully prepared classic and modern dishes
• Elegant presentation in a relaxed setting
• Afternoon teas and lighter daytime options
• A quality drinks selection including wines, beers, and spirits

Large windows and outdoor seating areas provide beautiful views of the canal, making it especially popular during warmer months.

Beautiful Grounds and Outdoor Spaces
One of The Moat House’s biggest attractions is its stunning outdoor environment. Guests can enjoy:

• Canal-side terraces
• Landscaped gardens
• Quiet seating areas overlooking passing boats
• A calm, unhurried atmosphere

It’s a perfect setting for walkers and cyclists taking a break, or boaters enjoying the gentle rhythm of canal life.

A Favourite with Walkers, Cyclists, and Visitors
Beyond boaters, The Moat House attracts:

• Towpath walkers exploring the canal
• Cyclists using the long, flat canal route
• Visitors to nearby Stafford and Penkridge
• Couples and families seeking a scenic dining destination

Its location offers a peaceful escape while remaining easily accessible.

Why The Moat House Is So Highly Regarded

• Prime waterside position on the canal
• Historic setting with modern comfort
• High-quality food and attentive service
• Relaxed yet elegant atmosphere
• Ideal stop for boaters and towpath users
• Beautiful gardens and canal views

Few places along the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal offer the same blend of history, scenery, and comfort.

Conclusion
The Moat House in Acton Trussel is one of the true gems of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. Whether you arrive by narrowboat, bicycle, or on foot, it offers a peaceful, refined stop where canal life slows to a gentle pace. For anyone travelling this historic waterway, it is a destination well worth planning into the journey.