Explore Staffordshire Villages by Narrowboat!

Описание: Welcome back to Vineyards and Villages – Episode 8! In this episode, we slow things right down and explore the charming villages of Staffordshire by narrowboat aboard our faithful travelling home, Spirit of Sproglet. The UK canal system is more than 200 years old, and cruising these peaceful waterways offers a completely unique way to discover England’s countryside, history, and village life.

This slideshow episode gives you a snapshot of our journey along the Trent and Mersey Canal, where life moves gently, wildlife drifts alongside, and every bend reveals another storybook scene. From traditional market towns to historic churches, quirky streets, cosy pubs, and iconic heritage sites, this part of England is full of character and warmth.

We stopped in some truly memorable places, including Sandbach, Rugeley, Great Haywood, Tixall, Congleton and Middlewich, each with its own charm and personality. We wandered through streets lined with half-timbered buildings, local shops, cafés, bakeries, and welcoming pubs. Some towns felt lively and bustling with community spirit, while others were peaceful, calm, and beautifully rural.

One of the highlights of this journey was our visit to the Shugborough Estate, a spectacular historic estate surrounded by parkland, landscaped gardens, bridges, follies and sweeping countryside views. It really feels like stepping into another era and offers such a powerful sense of English heritage. Nearby, we also crossed the historic Essex Bridge, one of the most beautiful and significant packhorse bridges in England. Standing there, looking out across the river and countryside, really captures the magic of slow travel.

We also visited the magnificent Lichfield Cathedral, with its striking three spires and breathtaking Gothic architecture. Stepping inside feels uplifting and deeply atmospheric, reminding you just how layered and rich England’s story really is.

What makes travelling by narrowboat so special is the pace. Life is calmer here. You feel close to nature, close to history and wonderfully connected to each village you visit. The sound of the water, the wildlife along the banks, the heritage of the canal, and the warmth of the communities make this one of the most rewarding ways to explore England.

If you enjoy English countryside travel, historic villages, canal boating, slow travel, and discovering hidden gems, then this episode is for you. Sit back, relax and enjoy this visual journey through Staffordshire’s canals, villages and landscapes.

Thank you for being part of the adventure! If you enjoyed this video, please like, comment and subscribe to follow along as the Vineyards and Villages series continues. More journeys, more discoveries, and more slow travel storytelling still to come.
For more Vineyards and Villages travels, read my blog HERE: https://allaboutwinechat.com/blog/