The Droitwich Barge and Droitwich Junction Canals are a fascinating network of waterways steeped in history, connecting the historic town of Droitwich Spa in Worcestershire to the wider canal system of England.
History
The Droitwich Canals were originally constructed to transport salt, which has been extracted in the area since Roman times. The Droitwich Barge Canal, which opened in 1771, was built primarily to accommodate larger barges carrying salt and other goods to and from the River Severn. The Droitwich Junction Canal, completed in 1854, linked the Barge Canal to the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, expanding the region’s trading capabilities.
The canals fell into disrepair in the mid-20th century, with commercial traffic declining significantly. However, restoration efforts began in the 1970s, leading to the reopening of the Droitwich Barge Canal in 2011 and the Droitwich Junction Canal shortly after, revitalizing this historical waterway and reconnecting it to the national canal network.
Locks
The Droitwich Barge Canal features a total of six locks that help to navigate the changes in elevation along the route. The locks are notable for their design and functionality, allowing for smooth passage through this picturesque landscape. The Droitwich Junction Canal has an additional three locks, facilitating the connection between the two canals and the surrounding waterways.
Connections
The Droitwich Canals connect to several important waterways in the region. At the north end of the Barge Canal, it links to the River Severn, one of the major rivers in England. At the southern end, the Junction Canal connects to the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, creating a vital link in the wider canal network, allowing boaters to travel across a significant part of the Midlands.
Interesting Features
One of the most interesting features of the Droitwich Canals is the Droitwich Spa Marina, which serves as a hub for canal boaters and visitors alike. The marina offers facilities for boaters, including mooring and services, making it a popular destination.
Additionally, the canals are home to an array of wildlife and natural beauty. The banks are lined with lush vegetation, providing habitats for various birds and other wildlife. The peaceful, tree-lined stretches of the canal are ideal for leisurely walks and cycling along the towpaths, allowing visitors to appreciate the area’s tranquility and charm.
The Droitwich Canals stand as a testament to England’s rich canal heritage, combining history, industry, and natural beauty in a scenic and functional waterway. Whether navigating the locks, enjoying the wildlife, or exploring the nearby town, the Droitwich Canals offer a unique glimpse into the country’s storied past.
Canal Specification
| Max Boat Length | 71 ft 6 in |
| Max Boat Width | 7ft |
| Number of Locks | 16 |
| Length | 7.4 Miles |
Youtube Videos
- CruisingTheCut – 108. Narrowboat trip on the Droitwich Barge Canal from near Hawford to Droitwich
- Minimal List – 148 – Exploring the Droitwich Canals
- Droitwich Canal Playlist – Various Contributors
River/Canal Route Planning
If you are looking for a canal/river route planner, we recommend Canal Plan, we use it to plan our routes, and then once we have a plan our maps are useful to find what else there is on the way