The extension forms part of the Birmingham Canal Navigations. Historically, it ran to Hednesford, and served a number of collieries, which provided the main boat traffic. The canal opened in 1863, and the northern section closed in 1963 as a result of mining subsidence.
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 Wyrley & Essington.
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.
Read more about the history of the Wryley & Essington Canal
