Canal Boat Holiday Base Information - Base 24 on the Llangollen Canal

Canal Holidays on the Llangollen Canal

Experience breathtaking views, historic towns and the world famouse Pontcysyllte aqueduct

About the location

One of the many attractions of Whixall is its proximity to the picturesque Llangollen Canal. Just a half hour cruise to join the main line then you decide to turn left for Llangollen itself, or right to Hurleston Junction and join the Shropshire Union Canal. Having chosen the left turn you are initially rewarded with seven miles of quiet winding canal leading into the aptly named market town of Ellesmere.

Llangollen Canal Location

Routes from this base

Your holiday isn't tied to a specific route. You simply hire a boat for the time you choose, then explore the canals however you like. Our short-break, week, and two week routes are just ideas to help you plan your ideal canal holiday.

Short break routes (3 - 4 nights)

Chirk Return: The rolling green fields of Shropshire and Cheshire embrace the canal on this cruise. A leisurely trip with only 2 locks in each direction lead you to the pleasant village of Chirk with its historic buildings and town trail. Cross the splendid 70 feet high aqueduct and turn just before the tunnel. There is no turning point after the tunnel. There are a choice of pubs in Chirk, one of which boasts 'the last pub in England'.

  • Ellesmere Return • 7 hours • 0 locks
  • Chirk Return • 16 hours • 4 locks

One week routes

Llangollen Return: The Llangollen Canal is possibly the most popular in Britain with attractions for families or a group of friends. Picturesque countryside takes you through Shropshire, Cheshire and North Wales with canal side pubs catering for boaters. A camera is a must for the architecture and views that the tunnels and aqueducts offer, particularly the Pontcysyllte. An unusual canal feature is a 2mph water flow meaning that your return journey will be quicker than the outbound trip!

Chester Return: An interesting cruise with staircase locks and lift bridges adding to the canal experience whilst enjoying the beautiful Cheshire countryside. The Llangollen Canal traverses the pretty towns of Whitchurch and Wrenbury before descending into Hurleston Junction. Here you join the Shropshire Union Canal taking you into the historic city of Chester. A walk around the Roman walls will restore your 'land legs' before you sample the numerous bars and restaurants in this delightful city.

  • Llangollen Return • 24 hours • 4 locks
  • Nantwich Return • 22 hours • 38 locks
  • Market Drayton Return • 36 hours • 82 locks
  • Chester Return • 42 hours • 66 locks

10/14 days Cruising

4 Counties Ring

75 hours • 132 locks