A day on the canals from Gailey Marina is the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing, lock‑free cruise along the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal. The Autherley & Return route takes you through gentle bends and open countryside, offering around six hours of uninterrupted boating. Take in the peaceful scenery, historic landmarks, and charming canalside pubs at your own pace, making for a perfect full day on the water.
Marina Phone: 01902 790612
Address: Gailey Wharf, Gailey, ST19 5PR (Get Directions)
Day Boat Capacity: 2 to 8
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DAY TRIP ROUTE
Autherley & Return ~6 Hours, 0 Locks
The Autherley & Return route offers a peaceful, lock‑free cruise along the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, perfect for a relaxed day afloat. Gentle bends, open countryside, and simple cruising make this route suitable for all experience levels, taking approximately 6 hours for a full day of uninterrupted boating.
This section of the canal dates back to 1772, making it one of the earliest major canals of the Industrial Revolution. At Gailey Wharf, don’t miss the historic toll‑keeper’s watch tower and cottage, a striking reminder of the canal’s original construction era.
Departing Gailey Wharf, you’ll head south through quiet, scenic rural stretches. After about 2 hours, you’ll pass the Anchor Inn, a traditional canalside pub. If you’d like to stop here, continue past the pub to the winding hole near the Three Hammers Complex, then cruise back a short distance to moor outside the pub.
The Three Hammers area is also home to the Three Hammers Bistro and Crazy Golf - perfect for a shorter day trip with a fun activity stop!
For those enjoying the full 6‑hour cruise, continue to Autherley Junction, the route’s turning point. Here you can easily wind the boat and enjoy the tranquil scenery from a fresh perspective on your return north to Gailey Wharf.
Based at Gailey Wharf, just off the A5. Elsie can offer you a day of lock free cruising.
Please note, Georgie’s Canal Cruises, will no longer be operating our lovely Elsie Elizabeth for day boat hire, but you can continue to enjoy the same fantastic days on the water from the wonderful team at Gailey Wharf working in partnership with ABC boat hire. Be sure to use the link above to book directly through their website so we can continue to share the joy Elsie brings along the Staffs and Worcester canal
Happy cruising, Love the Georgie Crew x