The Middlewich Branch

It was the Chester Canal Company’s ambition, realised by that man again, Thomas Telford, that enabled the Middlewich Branch to be opened in 1833 and finally provide the missing link of the “Ring” that we all love to cruise today. Rural, remote and sometimes windswept it may be but, because of its geographical significance, it can be one of the busiest canals in the country.

The branch leaves the Main Line of the Shropshire Union Canal at Barbridge Junction and crosses farmland on high embankments crossing over the River Weaver on its way to Wardle Lock where it joins the Trent & Mersey Canal at Middlewich. Typical of Telford it is a mainly straight waterway with only 4 locks (though quite deep and slow filling) throughout its whole length. This includes a 10 mile lock free pound. Boaters should be aware that there can be quite long delays at Cholmondeston Lock, especially at weekends, where there is a big Marina with many private boats coming and going.

Features along the canal include a block of former canal stables after Church Minshull that have been tastefully converted into attractive living accommodation.

There are good moorings at Chuch Minshull where a short walk will be rewarded by food and drink at The Badger Inn. It was here that canal campaigner and author Tom Rolt moored on his boat Cressy during the war years. There are also many good countryside moorings created by the Shropshire Union Canal Society where boaters can stop to enjoy a barbecue.

After Stanthorne Lock the canal becomes more urban as houses line each bank into the town of Middlewich and there are good moorings for those wishing to stop overnight and explore this historic salt town, and perhaps partake of refreshments in its many and varied hostelries.

The canal finally links up with its once former rival the Trent & Mersey Canal at Wardle Junction. It is here that you will cruise another curiosity of the waterways, the Wardle Canal, the shortest canal in the UK at just 154 feet (47 metres). It was built in 1829 to that the navigation authority of the Trent & Mersey Canal could maintain control over the junction and terminates with Wardle Lock, also the last lock on the Middlewich Branch.

More Informative Canal Guides, Route Maps and DVD's can be purchased from the Waterway Routes website.