Want to have fun with the entire family? Why not take your loved ones on a holiday? Enjoy beautiful waterways, gorgeous scenery, fresh air, sun, and wind. That can all give you happy memories to last a lifetime. If you like that, start looking at canal boat holidays. Consider the list and determine which holidays hit the mark regarding your schedule and the experiences you want to enjoy.
The Kennet and Avon Canal
When searching for the best canal boat holidays, consider the first location on the list: the Kennet and Avon Canal, which is iconic for a reason. The 87-mile waterway links the River Thames to the Bristol Channel. As one of the most beautiful canals in the UK, you’ll be mesmerised by your surroundings. The history and scenery alone can mean spending days in the area boating. Consider checking out the Caen Hill Locks if you have time to spare.
Leeds and Liverpool Canal
If you’ve been combing through long lists of the best canal boat holidays, you’ll want to pay attention to the second canal: the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. It’s widely recognised for being Northern England’s longest canal, and boating along this route will take you on a tour of the country’s industrial heritage and beautiful scenery. You’ll pass by the lovely East Lancashire and visit the charming villages around the Yorkshire Dales. With the landmarks and museums in Liverpool and Leeds, you have plenty of sights to explore.
Trent and Mersey Canal
If you’re looking for a boating experience that offers cross-country adventure, this canal—spanning 93 miles—is a must-see. It’s the first long-distance canal in England. You’ll find plenty of history in the area. For instance, many come by Heartbreak Hill. Expect long queues, though, in some areas. Heartbreak Hill refers to the 31 locks on the Trent and Mersey Canal sitting between Kidsgrove and Middlewich Junction.
Warwickshire Ring
You’ve probably heard some boaters refer to this as the Midlands Ring, aptly named since it’s a circular route with several canals, including the Oxford Canal and the Grand Union Canal. If you can’t get enough to historic towns and quaint villages, you should plan a longer stay in the area to make the most out of your holiday.
Thames Ring
The River Thames links several canals, giving you an eclectic combination of tidal and non-tidal rivers. Look at the busy city of London from the water. Go on a sightseeing trip to the countryside. If both places appeal to you, this might be the perfect canal for your boating adventure. You’ll pass through Oxford Canal and have time to see the lovely country. The route also takes you through the heart of central London, as you go through the Regent’s Canal.
Oxford Canal
If you want a canal with breathtaking beauty, consider the Oxford Canal. The rich Oxford countryside never disappoints, giving you a taste of what rural escapes are like. You won’t see any large-scale development projects, so all you get is just gorgeous scenery. Take pictures of the three spires of Coventry or plan an extended stay in one of the quant villages and historic towns.
River Wey
This is a rural canal, so expect beautiful landmarks and scenic countryside. Historic monuments like Dapdune Wharf are a common stopover for many tourists and boaters. If you love unspoiled nature, consider this for your holidays.
Regent’s Canal
A calm and serene canal in the heart of bustling London is a favourite for many boaters. It offers must-see sights such as the Little Venice’s narrowboats that glide on the water to Regent’s Park, Camden market, and even the London zoo. If you want a unique boating experience, consider this canal and discover why it’s one of the country’s best-kept secrets among boaters.
Enjoying the Canals
- Get close to nature. Canals wind through many places in the UK, incredibly gorgeous scenery that remains untouched. If you want to take photos of the British wildlife, schedule a few hours exploring the off the boat.
- Learn new skills. If you’re boating, you’ll pass through an endless tunnels, locks, and bridges. That’s quite a boon for someone who appreciates history.
- Go on walks. The best way to explore some of the areas is to walk. But be sure to check the weather report and conditions before you take a long stroll. If it’s been raining hard the past few days, you might need to reconsider, especially if the soil is wet. That won’t make for a pleasant stroll, so pay attention to small details like that.
Give fishing a try. You might be surprised at how many boaters love this activity. The diverse wildlife in many of the canals you’ll visit could give you pike, roach, carp, and more. Choose places where you can moor without worry.
