Destination Guide
Stourport, Avon & River Severn
The Stourport and Avon Rings offer a wonderful mix of canal and river cruising through delightful countryside and industrial heritage.
Experience the 36 locks of Tardebigge Flight, a truly breathtaking experience on the scenic Worcester and Birmingham Canal. Cruise along the Severn on the Stourport Ring and enjoy Worcester and Birmingham’s urban contrasts, then take time to encounter some of England’s finest sights on the Avon Ring – Stratford-upon- Avon, Tewkesbury and the Vale of Evesham between the Malverns and the Cotswolds.
Discover the local sights
Tewkesbury
Take time to stop at this beautiful historic town, marvel at the timber-framed buildings with overhanging eaves and visit the 11th century abbey, that reaches 148 feet in height and forms the largest surviving Norman central tower in the World.
Stratford-Upon-Avon
Visit one of England’s most vibrant and historical medieval towns. Stratford-upon- Avon is steeped in history and famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Spend time looking around the many properties associated with his life, have a drink in the Dirty Duck pub and rub shoulders with the local actors, or see a show at one of the three uniquely different theatres in the town.
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Wilmcote
Near Wootton Wawen is the pretty village of Wilmcote, the childhood home of Shakespeare’s mother. Mary Arden’s House and the Shakespeare Countryside Museum is a beautiful 16th century timbered farmhouse conveniently located near to the canal.
Dudley
Dudley is well worth a stop. The Zoological Gardens offers something for all the family. See some of the world’s rarest and biggest animals, learn about their welfare and if you have time, be a zoo keeper for a day! You can also enjoy a stroll around the beautifully maintained gardens or visit Dudley Castle, founded in 1071, and experience the history behind this haunted building on the Ghost Walk.
Plot your course
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Our team recommends...
Travel through Birmingham and spend some time at Gas Street Basin, lined with craft stalls, bars and cafes. Also make time to stop at Bourneville, home to Cadbury World, a wonderful place for a family visit. If you get the chance to stopover in Stratford, you can moor in the basin adjacent to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre; you might be lucky and get seats for the evening’s performance.
Sarah Bennison
