Canal Boating Article: Severn
Visit Severn from the following marina(s)
Linked to: Staffordshire and Worcester Canal, Droitwich Canal, Worcester and Birmingham Canal, Gloucester and Sharpness Canal, River Avon
The River Severn is Britain's longest river and from its source high in the Welsh Mountains flows for 220 miles to the Bristol Channel. Cruising begins close to Stourport and the waters here are busy with motor cruisers and narrowboats. The river is world famous for its Bore and it's tide is the second highest in the world with a range which can be in excess of 50ft.
Diglis Junction - The Worcester and Birmingham Canal meets the river at Diglis Junction. It was here, on the flood plain, that the final battle took place in 1642 which lead to the flight to exile of King Charles II.
Worcester and the Cathedral – From moorings within the centre you are able to walk into this historic city. Visit the cathedral and the nearby timber framed Commandery which is most famous for being used as military headquarters during the Civil War and for holding King Charles II. The city is home to a wealth of shops where you will be able to purchase the famous Royal Worcester Porcelain.
Stourport Basins - Located on the banks of the River Severn in the picturesque Severn Valley the Basins are home to nearly 100 narrow boats and yachts. The Stourport Canal Basins still remain largely intact from the golden age of the canals in the late 1700's - early 1800's.
Upton-upon-Severn – From the marina a bridge connects to this pretty town which contains a mix of half timbered and Georgian buildings. Visit the museum or the church were The Heritage Centre is housed in the 'Pepperpot', church tower.
Gloucester Docks -The once derelict port of Gloucester Docks is now a vibrant retail and leisure area. The Antiques Centre has over 100 individual dealers selling a wide range of antiques and collectables. There are many places to stop for refreshments from award winning restaurants to quiet waterside cafés.
National Waterways Museum – Housed in a handsome Grade II listed warehouse within The Gloucester Docks the museum tells the fascinating story of Britain's 2000 miles of waterways. On the dockside you can climb aboard a range of different boats or take a boat trip on the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal.
The Gloucester and Sharpness Ship Canal - Starting at the Gloucester and stretching for 16 miles a diversion down the The Gloucester and Sharpness Ship Canal is well worth the effort. The canal has an identity all of its own and is different to most navigations due to its sheer size. Unique to this canal are immense swing-bridges and the ornate bridge keeper’s houses.
PLACES TO VISIT
