Canal Boating Article: Montgomery
Visit Montgomery from the following marina(s)
Length: 38 miles but only 7 miles navigable from the Llangollen Canal at Frankton Junction.
Locks: 8 (in this 7 mile section)
Aqueducts: 1.
Linked to: Llangollen Canal
Originally known as the Montgomeryshire Canal after the former county of Montgomeryshire. The canal soon fell into disuse following a breach in 1936 and was officially abandoned in 1944. During 20th century with the revival of canal use it became part restored and known as the Montgomery Canal. At present only 7miles, of this stretch, is opened from Frankton Junction.
The Montgomery Canal has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is most noted for its aquatic plants.
A lock keeper is in attendance at Frankton Junction to unlock the gates and to assist passage. You MUST book a passage 24 hours prior to your arrival and access is between 12.00 and 1400 only - Bookings can be made by phoning British Waterways on 01606 723800.
PLACES OF INTEREST ON ROUTE
Perry Aqueduct - (The new Perry Aqueduct) Spanning the River Perry and constructed of steel trough sections. It is built at site of the old stone built aqueduct which had been demolished.
Maesbury – A beautifully preserved village largely built alongside the canal. The village offers a Post Office, Shop and tea room all within easy access of the canal.
Aston Nature Reserve - As part of the English restoration Aston Nature reserve is being extended to provide a major new wetland areas. Otters are frequent visitors to the reserve and waters voles are returning to the canal after an absence of many years.
Llanymynech - This small pretty village stands on the border between England (Shropshire) and Wales (Powys). The boarder runs straight through the village centre so half is in England and the other in Wales. The village is flanked by enormous limestone cliffs and a walk up the quarried face of Llanymynech is well worth it for the stunning views.
Guilsfield Arm – Leads to the terminus at Tyddyn Basin which at one time contained coal and lime wharves. Now part of a nature reserve there are plenty of place to stop for a picnic and there are stunning views across to Breiddin Hills
PLACES TO VISIT
