Whixall Marina. Shropshire, home to a fleet of narrowboats that will welcome Canaltime members from March 2012. At the end of the Prees Arm of the stunning Llangollen Canal, a warm welcome awaits our members

The marina itself is very attractive with well laid out pontoons and some beautifully maintained narrow boats.  ‘The ‘village green’ in one corner is a great place to sit and relax if you arrive early whilst there is ample parking at the far end of the basin.

The real beauty of this location though is the canal cruising that is available. The Prees Arm itself is superb and whilst there are no locks, there are a couple of lift bridges – nothing to worry about as you only need you windlass to operate the hydraulic motors. The Arm itself is part of a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest and guests can enjoy the special plant and animal life along its path.

Once at the end of the Arm, you can turn either left or right. Many will turn left and head towards the Welsh Mountains, Llangollen and its World Heritage Site, home to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. This really is one of the most amazing feats of waterway engineering the world has ever seen.

The aqueduct, construction of which started in 1795, carries the canal and boats over 1,000 feet (307 metres) across the Dee Valley at a maximum height of 126 feet (38 metres). It took 10 years to complete and was opened to waterway traffic on 20th November 1805. It has nineteen arches all the construction materials used were sourced locally by the main engineers, Thomas Telford and William Jessop.

This  is a sight and experience not to be missed.

On the way, you will pass through Ellesmere in the Shropshire ‘Lake District’ though if you turn right, you will cruise towards Hurleston Junction and the Shropshire Union Canal. A few hours in and you will reach Whitchurch and then Wrenbury as you head towards the Cheshire Plain.

Whixall offers you amazing canal holiday opportunities and will be open each year from March until the end of October for Canaltime members.

There is a surprise around every corner. .

You may wish to use the marina as a base or mix and match land based exploration with some cruising. You are welcome! You choose what best suits your holiday needs. Bring your favourite CDs and DVDs. Canalside pubs are great places to eat and relax while downing a refreshing glass of good ale. If you prefer your own cooking, there is a grill, oven, four burner hob and even a microwave.

Expect a warm welcome from the friendly Canaltime staff. Their knowledge and advice will be invaluable and they’ll patiently teach you all that they are able about “captaining your ship”. Set out on your cruise brimming with excitement and confidence. The small fleet of Whixall narrowboats are instantly recognised on the waterways with their winning combination of friendly colours and happy holiday crew. With such great ambassadors, we are all justifiably proud of the high levels of satisfaction enjoyed by our members.