AUDLEM

The Audlem Canal

A short cruise from Swanley Bridge Marina is the village of Audlem. This pretty village is famous for its run of 15 locks, which drop 93ft over one and a half miles on the Shropshire Union Canal. Interpretation panels by the towpath describe how the locks work and the canal's history. The area was famous for its 'fly-boats' (barges pulled by horses). These travelled between Birmingham, Audlem and Ellesmere Port. As speed was essential, they travelled through the night non-stop - so it's possible they're the origins of the term 'on the fly'?

The village is the home to 3 pubs which are all popular to boaters: The Shroppie Fly,  which is located on the side of the canal, The Bridge Inn, which is also located a few minutes away on the side of the canal and The Lord Combermere.

There are shops selling local food and plenty of places to eat within the centre of the village, making Audlem a great place to spend a few nights.