Canal Pub
Black Star
The Black Star, 1 Mitton St, Stourport-on-Severn DY13 8YP.
Canal Pub
#1 Rated Canal Pub on the River Severn
Canal Pub on the River Severn
The River Severn is Britain's longest river, running about 220 miles (354 kilometers) from the Cambrian Mountains in mid-Wales to the Bristol Channel and the Atlantic Ocean. Starting at 2,000 feet on Plynlimon, it flows through Welshpool, crosses into England near Shrewsbury, and passes Worcester and Gloucester. The Severn has long been important for trade and powered many mills during the Industrial Revolution. It is famous for the Severn Bore, a tidal wave that travels upstream, drawing surfers and spectators. The Severn Estuary has one of the world's highest tidal ranges, up to 50 feet, leading to tidal power proposals. Today, the river supports wildlife like salmon, eels, and the rare twaite shad, and its valley is a key transportation route, crossed by bridges such as the Severn Bridge and the historic Iron Bridge at Coalbrookdale.
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.
River Severn's Best Canal Pub in 2026