Cycling along the Shropshire Union Canal

Boats moored on the Shropshire Union Canal at Market Drayton

The canal provides an excellent off-road route through the Staffordshire and Cheshire countryside, running close to the Chester Cycleway in places. A British Waterways cycling permit is required to cycle along the canal. These can be downloaded for free.

Cycling is permitted on the following sections of the main line:

  • Autherley (Bridge 1) to Audlem (Bridge 79) (54km): generally good quality towpath, but take extra care through Tyrley Cutting.
  • Waverton (Egg Bridge 119) through Chester to Ellesmere Port (22km): take extra care, as this section is popular with other users
  • Wardle Lock to Clive Green Bridge 24 on the Middlewich Branch (3km)

Cycling routes

Towpath Stoppages

20 Feb 2012 - 02 Mar 2012

Stoppage: Powell's Bridge 147 to M53 Bridge 144A

Associated Regional Office: North Wales & Borders Waterways

Towpath has been closed

National Grid Gas to carry out pipe recoating works to gas pipe crossings adjacent to Powell's Bridge 147 and M53 Motorway Bridge 144A.

(Enquiries: 01923 201120)