Cannock Extension Canal

This 1.8-mile (2.9 km) long extension runs from Pelsall Junction on the [Wyrley & Essington Canal](/Wryley & Essington Canal](/canals-and-rivers/wyrley-and-essington-canal), north to Norton Canes Docks. It forms part of the Birmingham Canal Navigations.

You might not believe that the Birmingham Canal Navigations can offer rural cruising - but the Cannock Extension Canal is proof that it can. At the very north of the Birmingham system, the little-used Cannock Extension offers an intriguing short diversion off the 'Curley Wyrley'.

One of the country's largest populations of the protected Floating Water Plantain can be found in the canal, which has been designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Things to do on the Cannock Extension Canal

Places to visit near the Cannock Extension Canal

History of the Cannock Extension Canal

The canal opened in 1863 and ran to Hednesford, serving a number of collieries which provided the main boat traffic.

The northern section closed in 1963 as a result of mining subsidence.