The Caldon Canal runs for 17 miles from Etruria and its junction with the Trent & Mersey to its terminus at Froghall whilst a further branch leads on to the outskirts of Leek. It is said by many to be the prettiest canal on the network and, whilst the first few miles might do little to confirm that opinion, as it winds through the Staffordshire Moorlands you may begin to wonder why this canal is not more popular.

The canal was opened in 1779 to transport limestone from Froghall and, during the 20th century, gradually deteriorated to the extent that it was no longer navigable by the early 1960s. However a very active group, The Caldon Canal Society, began to renovate the canal and it was re-opened in 1974

From Etruria with its staircase lock, the canal passes a statue of James Brindley, the mastermind behind the Trent & Mersey Canal, then Hanley Park appears followed by relics of Stoke's pottery industry. At Ivy House Lift Bridge you have the opportunity to annoy local motorists whilst you pass through and the canal proceeds in to a more rural setting. Milton is a useful place to stock up on provisions as is Stockton Brook where you will find a set of five locks.

Passing Endon, the canal approaches the junction with the Leek arm where it passes over the main line at Denford. Cheddleton soon appears with a choice of shops and places for refreshment together with the flint mill that will reward a couple of hours viewing. Past the village is the Churnett Valley Railway which runs alongside the canal through charming, peaceful countryside through Consall Forge and on to Froghall where there is a new basin.