A dog-friendly holiday on the Kennet & Avon Canal

Travel writer Kim Jones reviews her dog-friendly boating holiday on the Kennet & Avon Canal

Kim Jones of Kick Back Times has reviewed her Drifters holiday with her partner and her dog Hugo.

They set off from Bradford on Avon Marina on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Wiltshire.

In her article, Kim describes the facilities on board their cosy narrowboat for two ‘Bella’:  

“It had a full heating system, and even a wood burner. The bedroom cabin featured a ‘four poster’ bed and a fair amount of wardrobe space. In the living area there was a small settee and tv, and the kitchen was really well equipped – with a four burner hob, oven, microwave, kettle and plenty of saucepans and cooking utensils. There was also a toilet and shower.“

Cruising east towards Devizes, they enjoyed the slow pace of life, towpath walks and stopping off at dog-friendly pubs along the way. Kim says the experience allows you to:

“Open yourself up to the charm of a slower lifestyle and enjoy the journey, chugging along through silent waters and beautiful unspoilt countryside. You’ll be followed by swans in search of a meal, spot flashes of electric blue as kingfishers dash through the sunlight. And take in the beautiful autumn hues of the trees lining the canal and the green countryside beyond.”

On their second day afloat, they moored up close to the bottom of the famous Caen Hill flight of locks at Devizes. They enjoyed a walk up to the cafe at the top and enjoyed beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

It was their first narrowboat holiday, so Kim describes the experience of getting used to steering the boat and mooring up. And she provides some helpful tips for newcomers, including bringing food for your first night on board so you can be flexible where you moor up on your first night.

You can read Kim’s article here.