Just after Great Haywood is Tixall Wide and to the South is Shugborough Hall, accessible from Bridge 106 and the canal then skirts around Stafford – the centre of the town is about 1 ½ miles from Radford Bridge. Continuing South, the canal runs close to the M6 motorway, possibly not the best area to moor overnight, then past Teddesley Park to the East and into the pleasant village of Penkridge – a good place to stop for refreshments or to stock up on provisions.
Once again the M6 runs close to the canal until Rodbaston lock when it veers to the West and approaches Gailey Wharf with its interesting round toll-keeper’s watch tower. The canal then passes a chemical works and reaches Hatherton Junction where the Hatherton Branch is in the process of being renovated with a view to making it navigable once again.
The canal follows a winding course to Coven, goes under the M54 motorway and then proceeds through the Northern suburbs of Wolverhampton. Just South of Bridge 68 the canal is narrow and there is a passing place so you should keep a look out for approaching boats. Soon after is Autherley where there is a sharp turn to the West for the Shropshire Union or you can continue South towards Stourport or take the BCN to explore the Black Country and Birmingham. 60 61
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