The Middlewich Branch

A very pleasant canal with lots of peaceful countryside scenery. At Barbridge there is useful little chandlery but for a much bigger range try Venetian marina above the first lock. Our favourite mooring is  at Church Minshull just before bridge 13. The canal embankment makes for a wonderful view of the village and is a delightful spot about halfway along the waterway. 

The Badger in the village is a fifteen minute walk through a wood and over a narrow wooden bridge. You may find it easier to follow the towpath to the bridge and carefully walk along the road. The pub is popular with locals but we didn't find it particularly comfortable. Burtonwood Bitter was in good condition. There are also two national brewery guest beers. As this waterway is a popular link to the Llangollen canal from the hire bases on the Trent and Mersey, the locks can get busy during the holiday season. This is particularly the case at the lock at Middlewich, so allow time for some delay if necessary.