Canal Pub on the Shropshire Union Canal

Guide To Boat Inn

Situated along the scenic Shropshire Union Canal, The Boat Inn in Gnosall is a charming establishment steeped in local history, initially serving as a horse staging post for fly-boats navigating the canal.
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This traditional family-run pub combines rustic charm with modern comforts, featuring a cosy interior complete with a welcoming fireplace and a spacious beer garden that offers lovely views over the waterway.

Guests can savour freshly prepared homemade dishes while watching narrowboats navigate the adjacent canal from the sundeck or patio area. Currently operated by Phoenix Pubs under Marston’s ownership, The Boat Inn preserves its historical character while providing contemporary amenities, including accessible facilities, a car park, and a dog-friendly policy. This makes it an ideal stopping point for canal-side walkers, local residents, and visitors exploring the beautiful Staffordshire countryside.

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4.6
4.6 out of 5 stars (based on 21 reviews)
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Business Types

  • Canal Pub

Facilities

  • Serves Food
  • Bar Service
  • Accessible Entrance

Boat Inn Information

Wharf Rd, Gnosall, Stafford ST20 0DA.

Phone

01785 472592

Opening Hours

Monday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

Thursday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

Friday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

Saturday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM

NOTE: Venues often have seasonal opening hours or can be subject to change and kitchen hours are often shorter, so it's always wise to check with the venue before visiting.
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Boat Inn Reviews

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Review from Google Places

24 July 2025

Tried this little pub for lunch today with my mum.

What a lovely place right alongside the canal in Gnosall…A real little gem with an excellent host and lovely atmosphere.

The food was excellent we had a homemade pizza which was divine and an omlette which again was excellent all piping hot.

We had a lovely lunch and will definitly return.

Fiona Scarrott

Review from Google Places

7 July 2025

Warm welcome from Jake Landlord.

Dogs are welcome. Used by the locals as well as those travelling on the canal.

Monday beer is cheap. Food available but not Monday. Worth a visit.

Rosemary Chapman

Review from Google Places

13 April 2025

1st time I’ve ordered from the boat and been in the boat however ordered a takeaway of a vegetarian roast dinner (with veggie sausages instead of meat) it was lovely. Looks like a lovely pub from what I seen when I went in and the girls on the bar were helpful and polite.

They also welcome dogs on leads and have tables overlooking the canal.

Thank you.

Courtney

Review from Google Places

31 March 2025

Absolutely brilliant service and the food is to die for.

Small plate for me next time, you can take home what you don’t eat.

Jacob the new manager very welcoming and dogs are allowed. Yoj need to book a table NOW

John Shuck

Review from Google Places

7 October 2024

We have been visiting the Boat Inn on and off for over 10 years as we visit Gnosall on our narrow boat travels. Whilst the management have changed a number of times fortunately the service and food standards have remained high. We did dine on this visit and both the food and drinks were excellent and the welcome warm.

Steve Walsh

Shropshire Union Canal's Best Canal Pub in 2026

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