Being moored locally can recomend Ellesmere, very small town, few pubs - Black Lion, good basic food. White Hart, good beer, Indian next door very good. There are a few little shops, spar and a nice deli with bread shop. The cruise through the lakes is very picturesque.
Whitchurch I agree is a long walk to town, but did find a nice pub in the centre for lunch. Wagoners definately worth a visit, excellent food. Our favorite in Wrenbury is definately the Dusty, food is a bit more posh that the Cotton Arms. If you have time to get down the Montgomery the Queens Head is worth a visit but bear in mind you may want to turn at the winding hole there, as there isn't another for some distance.
Hope you enjoy your trip