The Ashby Canal was built in the early 1800s to transport coal from the area around Ashby-de-la-Zouch to the industrial Midlands and originally went as far as Moira. However, subsidence caused by coal-mining brought about the closure of the last 8 miles of the canal and it now terminates just after Snarestone Tunnel although efforts are being made to restore the derelict sections. Covering 22 miles with no locks, the Ashby makes for a relaxing cruise through pleasant countryside.

Leaving the Coventry Canal, the urban surroundings of Bedworth and Nuneaton are left behind and the canal turns northward passing under the A5 Watling Street and through Hinckley and on to the remote landscape around Stoke Golding and Dadlington. The Battle of Bosworth Visitor Centre can be reached from Shenton and, from Bridge 42 it is a short walk into the pretty village of Market Bosworth.

Continuing north, is Shackerstone, another charming little village, where the Battlefield Line runs steam engines on trips to Shenton via Market Bosworth and the canal continues through the short Snarestone Tunnel to end shortly after Bridge 61 where there is a winding hole.