Gnosall to Norbury Junction Canal Walk

2.6 miles (4.2 km)

Enjoy a pleasant walk along the Shropshire Union Canal on this easy walk in Staffordshire. The route starts on the canal just west of Gnosall Heath and follows the towpath north past Shelmore Wood to visit Norbury Junction.
This peaceful section of the Shropshire Union Canal passes through attractive Staffordshire countryside, following a level towpath bordered by open farmland, mature trees and quiet woodland.... The canal is renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and is home to a variety of wildlife, with swans, moorhens, kingfishers, dragonflies and herons frequently seen along the water's edge.
Heading north from Gnosall, the route passes the woodland around Shelmore Wood before continuing to Norbury Junction, one of the best-known destinations on the Shropshire Union Canal. The historic junction was once intended to connect with the Newport Branch Canal, and today it is a popular stopping point for narrowboats. The canalside includes a marina, historic buildings, a waterside café and boat hire facilities, making it an excellent place to pause before the return journey.
The surrounding countryside offers further opportunities for exploration, with a network of footpaths leading through the rolling farmland and villages of west Staffordshire. Together with the attractive canal scenery and rich industrial heritage, this makes for an enjoyable and relaxing waterside walk.
You can continue your waterside walking by heading to the nearby Aqualate Mere. The lake and wildlife rich nature reserve lies just to the west of the canal.