Canal Pub
Spread Eagle
Romiley.
Canal Pub
#1 Rated Eating and Drinking on the Peak Forest Canal
Eating and Drinking on the Peak Forest Canal
The Peak Forest Canal is a scenic and historic waterway that stretches for 15 miles between Ashton-under-Lyne and Whaley Bridge in the northwest of England. Opened in 1800, the canal was originally built to transport limestone from Derbyshire quarries and played a crucial role in the area’s industrial development. Today, the canal is cherished by boaters, walkers, and cyclists for its tranquil route through dramatic landscapes, including the wooded slopes of the Goyt Valley and the impressive Marple Aqueduct. With its combination of beautiful countryside, historic features, and wildlife, the Peak Forest Canal offers a peaceful escape and a memorable journey through the edge of the Peak District.
Eating and drinking by UK canals is a classic British pleasure, blending scenic views with great food. Towpaths along 2,000 miles of waterways are lined with historic pubs—many once serving boatmen—offering hearty meals, Sunday roasts, and local ales, with moorings for narrowboats. The waterways now also feature independent cafés, tea rooms, and restaurants in converted warehouses, especially in areas like London’s Grand Union Canal and the Kennet & Avon Canal. Popular venues such as The Rowbarge at Woolhampton and The Dundas Arms at Kintbury attract visitors with outdoor terraces, seasonal menus, and regular events. Whether stopping during a towpath walk or arriving by boat, canalside eateries provide a peaceful setting to enjoy local flavors, wildlife, and Britain’s waterway heritage.
Peak Forest Canal's Best Eating and Drinking in 2026