Canal Pub
The Navigation Inn
Maesbury Marsh, Oswestry, SY10 8JB
Canal Pub
#1 Rated Canal Pub on the Montgomery Canal
Canal Pub on the Montgomery Canal
The Montgomery Canal is a tranquil and picturesque waterway that winds through the borderlands of England and Wales, stretching from Frankton Junction in Shropshire to Newtown in Powys. Originally built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries to transport lime, livestock, and goods, much of the canal fell into disuse but is now gradually being restored by dedicated volunteers. The Montgomery Canal is renowned for its rich wildlife, with several protected nature reserves along its route supporting rare aquatic plants and birds. Popular with boaters, walkers, and cyclists, the canal offers peaceful countryside views, historic locks, and charming villages, making it a haven for both nature lovers and those seeking a quiet escape.
Canal and riverside pubs in the UK are a long-standing tradition, once serving as vital stops for boatmen during the Industrial Revolution. Today, these historic pubs blend heritage charm with modern comfort, offering traditional fare, local ales, and scenic views beside moored narrowboats and canal wildlife. Many have names reflecting their past—“The Navigation,” “The Lock,” or “The Anchor”—and feature exposed beams, open fireplaces, beer gardens by the water, and moorings for boaters. Favorites include The Fisherman’s Return on the Norfolk Broads, The Waterside Inn on the Kennet & Avon Canal, and many along the Grand Union, Oxford, and Leeds & Liverpool Canals. These pubs welcome boaters, walkers, cyclists, families, and locals seeking a tranquil atmosphere. Many host events like quiz nights, live music, beer festivals, and barbecues, with menus featuring pub classics—fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and seasonal specials with regional ales. Whether you want a dog-friendly stop, romantic dining, or a peaceful pint by the water, Britain’s canal and riverside pubs deliver an authentic taste of waterway culture, where history, hospitality, and natural beauty meet.
Montgomery Canal's Best Canal Pub in 2026