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The Staffordshire and Worcestershire canal opened in 1772 as one of the main routes north from Birmingham. This is one of the original canal structures built by engineer James Brindley and was important for the transport of coal.
The Trent and Mersey canal was completed in 1777, connecting the east and west sides of the country and providing an
excellent link for Wedgwood pottery products. This canal was also built by James Brindley and was his most ambitious
structure to fully complete.
Travel on these waterways was made by a long-boat or barge. Once steam driven and horse drawn along the towpaths, this would be the only means of transporting products and raw
materials around the country. The towpaths that remain today are now the walkways for access by all.
The canal routes and lock gates are cared for and maintained by British Waterways.
Great Haywood can be a starting point for a boat holiday or trip, booked through the Anglo-Welsh hire office, following all or part of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire or the Trent and Mersey routes.
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