The Anchor Inn, Hartshill
Trip duration 2 hours out, 1½ hours return
This trip exits North from Nuneaton and exits the built up canalside after a couple miles into rural fields.
The trip to The Anchor Inn takes 2 hours on the outward leg and 1½ hours on the return journey. This is because we have to pass the pub to get to the winding hole (turning area big enough to turn around our 60ft narrowboat) before stopping shortly after turning around.
What to See
Starting from Bridge 20 on the Coventry Canal and heading North, this trip is semi-rural as it passes through the outskirts of Nuneaton before reaching open countryside.
The first point of interest is on the immediate left as we pass Starline Boats who manufacture, service and repair canal boats (known as narrowboats). You may possibly see boats out of the water so note the shape of the hull, rudder and propeller. The Hargreaves II is of similar design.
As we travel under Cat Gallows footbridge you will see the Greenmoor Road allotments and then we reach bridge 21 (still known by its old names of Wash Lane/Cock & Bear). By the flats you will see where the canal is widened to form a winding hole (place wide enough to turn a narrowboat).
Skirting around the edge of Tuttle Hill, we reach open countryside and you will see Caldecote Hall on your right and in the distance Horiba Mira vehicle technology centre.
Along this stretch the main line railway runs in the distance. Bridge 22a is a Railway Bridge – note the steel trusses with brick arches.
On the towpath you will see an original 12 bar telegraph pole originally used to carry telephone wires. You may also spot the occasional manhole cover which is where new internet fibre optics have been installed.
Passing Springwood Haven which is the home of workshops, chandlery and souvenir shop, as well as many colourful narrowboats.
The boat will pass The Anchor Inn at Hartshill to proceed towards the disused Hartshill maintenance yard then to the winding (turning) point where the boat will be turned and return to The Anchor Inn.
Catering
The Anchor Inn offers a range of dishes and boasts a warm and welcoming ambiance. The Anchor Inn is wheelchair accessible.
Pre-booking is essential.
If you are self catering we can come alongside adjacent to The Anchor Inn also.