The Purple
Boat and The Canalside Cottage
Location
Things to do in and around Shardlow
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8 pubs within walking distance of Shardlow, all serving food
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An Indian and Chinese restaurant half a mile walk away
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Local village shop
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Bus stops to Derby, Nottingham, Leicester and Castle Donington
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20 minute drive away from Derby and Nottingham city centres
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2 miles away from Donington Park Motor Racing Circuit
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10 minute drive or bus to East Midlands Airport
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10 minute drive to Long Eaton Train Station
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Country and canalside walks from Shardlow
Routes
There are many different routes you can choose from for your trip. Below are some examples of journeys you could take for a 6 night, 7 day cruise, based on 7 hours cruising per day.
To Stone
The round trip from Shardlow to Stone is 95 miles long. On the first night, we recommend stopping at the Ragley Boat Stop. Next day, pass through Willington and the lovely village of Alrewas. Fradley Junction is your next destination and head straight on for Great Haywood. Travelling through beautiful countryside and lovely villages, you will pass by Shugborough Hall, which is worth a visit. Continue travelling to arrive at the market town of Stone. The winding hole to turn around is located about 10 minutes after entering the boundary of Stone.
To Curdworth
The round trip from Shardlow to Curdworth is 86 miles. Stop at Ragley Boat Stop on your first night, then pass through Willington and Alrewas. At Fradley Junction turn left up the Coventry canal, through the swing bridge. This meandering route will take you through Fazeley, well worth a stop to top up with provisions or even to visit Drayton Manor Theme Park! At Fazeley Junction turn right to continue onto the Birmingham and Fazeley canal towards your destination of Curdworth.
To Market Harborough
This is a 102 mile trip from Shardlow to Market Harborough. Head out through Derwent Mouth Lock onto the River Trent towards Trent Junction. Here, pick up the Grand Union Canal which takes you onto the River Soar. Upon reaching Foxton Junction, turn left to continue on the Grand Union Canal, thereby avoiding the famous Foxton Lock Staircase! Continue on cruising until you reach your destination.