CRUISING OPTIONS
THE PERFECT LOCATION IN THE HEART OF CANAL COUNTRY
Mercia Marina is one of the best equipped and most attractive marinas in the UK. Set in the peaceful, tranquil location in the heart of canal country, right on the scenic Trent and Mersey Canal, halfway between Fradely Junction and Trent Lock/Sawley.
The Marina was created from the existing Willington Lake and sits within 74 acres of unspoilt countryside with footpaths leading to the nearby villages of Willington, Findern and Repton. Near the centre of the national canal network, Mercia Marina offers excellent cruising opportunties from a safe, flood free location.
£7m+ has been invested to date in creating a first-class marina with exceptional facilities as well as a relaxing destination for all those who enjoy the glorious English countryside and its wildlife.
Map by Aqua Narrowboats www.aquanarrowboats.co.uk
FULL LIST OF CRUISING ROUTES
Cruising time: A weekend
30 miles, 22 locks, 16 hours, 2 days (for return journey).
A gentle cruise through the narrow locks to the west, or stop early at Alrewas.
24 miles, 14 locks, 11 hours, 2 days (for return journey).
A little more energetic with the broad locks to the east, or stop early at Shardlow.
Cruising time: A long weekend
55 miles, 32 locks, 27 hours, 4 days (for return journey). Through the narrow locks of the Trent & Mersey Canal, turning to the North at Fradley Junction. Shugborough Hall and Tixall Wide are both within a mile of the junction.
52 miles, 22 locks, 24 hours, 3 days (for return journey).
Turning to the South at Fradley Junction this time to reach Fazeley Junction with Drayton Manor Park nearby.
Cruising Time: A Long break
109 miles, 94 locks, 56 hours, 2 weeks cruising (for return journey).The Four Counties Ring is one of the most sceneic narrowboat holiday routes. It travels through the counties of Cheshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire and West Midlands. This route is commonly used by holiday boaters typically taking about two weeks to complete using Mercia Marina as your starting point.
75 Miles, 79 Locks, 56 Hours, 2 Weeks Cruising Time (for return journey). Also known as the Black Country Ring, the route passes through Birmingham Canal Navigations, Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, Trent & Mersey Canal, Coventry Canal, Birmingham & Fazeley Canal. Starting on the Trent & Mersey Canal, we recommend hopping off near Rugeley and making your way to Cannock Chase if you have some time to explore.
