Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Walsall Branch Canal leaves via Walsall Locks beyond Walsall Junction
.
An old railway bridge crosses at Toll End and, soon after, the Lower Ocker Hill Branch -
or the remaining 300m of it - leaves on the left next to tennis courts and other sports facilit-
ies.
The Tame Valley Canal leaves on the right between a couple of the lattice cast-iron bridges
that are among the attractive features of the Black Country canals.
A canal cross exists at the point where the former Gospel Oak Branch joins. Presumably
this must have given some logistical problems with the movement of horses and towlines at
busy times.
The first line of the Midland Metro crosses. The Monway Branch has disappeared under
the earth but the banks of the Walsall Canal itself remain untouched and lupins and orchids
may be found. The water is ochre-coloured but remains relatively clear because it is only
lightly used and, like sections with other less-than-inviting colours of water, minnows can be
seen swimming about in significant numbers.
Powerlines now follow the canal all the way to Darlaston Green. From Bilston to Darlaston
Green the Black Country Route flanks the canal.
The Bradley Branch Canal, now heavily overgrown with reeds, leaves to the left at Moor-
croft Junction. The reeds provide a haven for moorhens.
The Moxley Stop was near the red sandstone spire of the church in Moxley. Today, a chil-
dren's playground is more prominent.
As the canal moves on past the lines of the former Bilston Branch and Willenhall Branch,
the countryside comprises derelict fields, occasionally occupied by horses. A notable feature
of the Black Country canals is that the people always seem friendly, whereas the common ex-
