Most of the southern half of the canal is embanked so that the water level is above the general level of the surrounding land, these banks have periodically caused concern to successive engineers, but a fortunate consequence is that boaters, cyclists & walkers can enjoy extensive views.
The towpath is open for walkers along the whole length of the canal, and cyclists would have little difficulty.
The canal was originally, 16 miles long, 16ft deep and had 16 bridges. Eight of the bridges have classical-style bridgemen's houses. These were built in the 1840s when competition from the railways made it important to have men on hand to open the bridges at night so that vessels could meet the tides at Sharpness.
Vessels were originally towed along the canal by horses, but their use declined after steam tugs were introduced in 1860. The barges that used to bring oil, grain, cocoa, wood and other raw products along the canal were known locally as 'butty's', hence the cache title.
The narrow bank between the canal and the River Severn has been used as a graveyard for old barges, schooners, ketches & lighters with the aim of protecting the bank from erosion by the strong currents in the river.
As a result, the ground level has built up over the years, & some of the later arrivals are lying on the top of earlier ones. Careful research has identified the remains of over 30 wooden vessels protruding above the present surface.
Map Explorer OL14 will enhance your enjoyment. Please research current bus routes as there is a bus stop very close to the first waypoint.
The above coordinates are for the suggested parking and the first location where you will find a comfortable resting place dedicated to a local hero. In which year was this 'Angel' born? this is ABCD.
Now go to waypoint N 51° 44.316 W 002° 26.923
At this place you will be stood outside a red brick house, if the pub is open, take your time to admire the view. Then count the number of chimney stacks on the house (not the pub), this is E.
Now follow the footpath towards the river and go to waypoint N 51° 44.224 W 002° 27.349
At this place, how many letters make up the second 'Butty' name from the top of the list? this is F.
Now go off the towpath towards N 51° 44.058 W 002° 27.594.
You are in the 'Ships Graveyard', what was the gross tonnage of Edith? This is K & L
Continue ahead to rejoin the towpath towards N 51° 43.708 W 002° 28.050
Here, you need to find out which year it opened and this is GHIJ.
There is a keysafe cache at this location
At this point you could continue along the towpath & enjoy the end/start of the canal & the many narrow boats & pleasure craft at Sharpness. You could also hunt for the excellent cache GC16FC3 "VINDI" if you wish.
When you are ready, turn round and go to the cache at -
N51° (C+A)(H-K).(J-B)(L+C)(A+D) W002° E(B-E).(I-E)(H-K-G)(L+G-F)
You can check the cache coordinates at the link above, it’s easy and FREE!
This cache has been in place for many years, I've recently moved it from where it was secured so as to survive the waters and tides of the river, I hope it's new hiding place will be as enjoyable to new finders as it was to the others who found it.
It's easier to find the cache from high ground
In order to find the cache and return to the suggested parking, you will have to walk approx 2 miles.
On your way back, why not stay on the towpath and ring the bell at the Gnome Wishing Well -
N 51° 44.256 W 002° 27.226
Happy searching ...