News Archives

Cruising across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

May 5, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Ashley Gibbins of the International Travel Writers Alliance reviews his holiday on the Llangollen Canal

Setting off from our Blackwater Meadow narrowboat hire centre on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire, Ashley Gibbins has reviewed his experience of cruising across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Ashley and Ann travelled from Blackwater Meadow, close to the historic market town of Ellesmere, to Trevor Basin and back. Their journey included a stop at the National Trust’s medieval Chirk Castle. And a section of the UNESCO World Heritage designated stretch of the Llangollen Canal. This included the magnificent Pontcysyllte and Chirk aqueducts, Chirk Tunnel and Whitehouses Tunnel. They also went through the two locks at New Marton.

In his review Ashley describes the facilities on board their rental canal boat, the ‘American Black Swift’ for up to four people.

He also writes about the history of the canal and why 11 miles have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You can read Ashley’s review ‘Springtime serenity on the Llangollen Canal’ here.

Canal boating on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire, England

Canal boat break from Wrenbury

April 27, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Olivia Ellis has reviewed her first canal boat holiday experience

Taking a canal boat break from Wrenbury on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire, Olivia has reviewed her first narrowboat holiday experience in Urban & Beyond.

Maria & Olivia have also published a review of their holiday on their youtube channel.

Travelling with her partner Maria, they took a four-night break and cruised through the Shropshire countryside.

Olivia’s review ‘A Guide to Canal Boating in the UK‘ includes a look back at the history of the canal network.

She describes how they learnt how to steer the boat and work the locks and how supportive the canal community was to them as newcomers:

“One of the most memorable parts of our trip was the sense of community. We had read that boaters were friendly, especially toward first-timers, but we were still amazed by how genuinely kind and helpful everyone was. From full-time liveaboards to other newcomers like us, there was always someone ready to lend a hand.”

Olivia reviews life on board during their canal boat break from Wrenbury:

“One of my favourite parts of boat life was the slow mornings and quiet evenings on the water. Before setting off each day, we’d wake to the gentle bob of the boat as others passed, a peaceful rhythm that felt worlds away from ordinary life. There was something special about waking up surrounded by nature, tucked into corners of the Shropshire countryside with little sign of roads or buildings, just greenery and the occasional passing boater.”

She also reviews one of the local pubs they visited, the Swan at Marbury.

Marion’s Four Counties Ring Itinerary

April 27, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Love Travelling’s Four Counties Ring Itinerary

Marion Collinson from Love Travelling has shared her Four Counties Ring Itinerary.

Setting off from our base at Stoke on Trent, in total the Four Counties Ring journey covered 111 miles, 94 locks and took close to 63 cruising hours.

Marion and her family took their time and did the journey in two weeks. You can do it in a week when the days are longer, but it’s more relaxing to do this journey on a 10-day or two-week holiday.

Day one: Etruria to Westport Lake 3 miles, 0 locks, 1 hour 20 minutes

Festival Park Marina, Etruria, Trent & Mersey Canal, Stafforshire (Black Prince base).
Morrisons supermarket at Festival Park for supplies to take on board
Middleport Pottery on right with moorings. Arranged a tour for the final day after returning boat.
Moor on left bank at Westport Lake, after Bridge 127.
Westport Lake is within walking distance of Harecastle Tunnel.
Westport Lake Visitor Centre closes 4.00 p.m.
Evening meal on board boat.

Day two: Longport to Rode Heath 1 tunnel, 5 miles, 12 locks, 5 hours

Harecastle tunnel. Open passage 8am to 12 noon. Bookings only pm and can be booked online the previous day.
The water at both ends of the tunnel is stained orange by iron ore.
Lidl available beside the canal just beyond the tunnel exit.
Red Bull pub overlooking Lock 43 at Church Lawton (Robinsons).
This is the upper section of what is known as the ‘Cheshire locks’ or ‘heartbreak hill’.
Locks x 6 (Nos.41 to 46) – Red Bull.
Locks x 2 (Nos. 47 to 48) – Church.
Lock x 1 (No. 49) – Hall’s.
Locks x 3 (Nos. 50 to 52) – Lawton Treble.
Moor at Rode Heath, between Bridge 140 and Lock 53.
Dinner at The Broughton Arms beside the canal just after bridge 140.

Day three of Marion’s Four Counties Ring Itinerary: Rode Heath to Wheelock 3 miles, 14 locks, 3 hours 50 minutes

This is the lower section of what is known as the ‘Cheshire locks’ or ‘heartbreak hill’.
Locks x 2 (Nos. 53 to 54) – Thurlwood.
Locks x 2 (Nos.55 to 56) – Pierpoint.
Locks x 2 (Nos. 57 to 58) – Hassall Green.
Locks x 8 (Nos. 59 to 66) – Wheelock.
Moor in Wheelock on left by Bridge 152.
Centre of Sandback a 1 mile walk from Wheelock. Dinner at The George Inn.
The Cheshire Cheese Inn at Wheelock looks attractive inside but just serves a snack menu.

Day four: Wheelock to Middlewich 6 miles, 6 locks, 3 hours 40 minutes

Locks x 3 at Booth lane (Nos. 67 to 69).
Rumps Lock (No 70) one mile south of Middlewich centre.
Middlewich centre – Locks x 2. Through Kings Lock then turn onto Shropshire Union Canal (SUC) – Middlewich branch, followed immediately by Wardle Lock.
Moor on the right between Bridges 28 and 31.
Lidl & Morrisons supermarkets in town centre.
Dined on board the boat.

Day five: Middlewich to Nantwich 13 miles, 3 locks, 5 hours 45 minutes

3 locks at Stanthorne, Cholmondeston, and Minshull, then enter Shropshire Union Canal (SUC) – Mainline, at Barbridge Junction.
Possible lunch stop at The Badger at Church Minshull – Bridge 14.5 miles from Middlewich (10 minute walk).
2 miles, 1 hour, past Hurlstone Junction, to Nantwich.
Moorings on left bank after Basin and before aqueduct.
Walk into Nantwich from aqueduct / bridge 92.
Nantwich museum free to visit, closes at 4pm.
Aldi & Morrisons supermarkets.
Dinner: Navio Lounge, Nantwich but there are also several attractive pubs in the town.

Day six: Nantwich to Audlem 5 miles, 6 locks, 3 hours 10 minutes

Short day to accommodate late start from Nantwich. To continue requires climbing a flight of 9 locks out of Audlem.
Locks x 2 at Hack Green.
Can visit the Secret Nuclear Bunker after Hack Green locks by Bridge 85.
Locks x 4 (Nos. 12 to 15) at start of Audlem.
Moorings on left at Audlem Wharf, bridge 78 between locks 12 and 13. Look for old wharf crane.
Dinner at the Shroppie Fly – canalside pub with food at Lock 13.

Day seven: Audlem to Market Drayton 5 miles, 16 locks, 4 hours 30 minutes

Locks x 11. Upper portion of Audlem flight of locks (Nos. 1 to 11).
Panda’s Pantry honesty mini farm shop at Lock 1.
Locks x 5. Adderley flight.
Moorings on right: below Bridge 62; between Bridges 63 & 64; between Bridges 64 & 65.
Bridge 62 gives direct access to Market Drayton centre.
Aldi, Lidl, and Asda supermarkets.
Dinner at The Hipperdrome in Market Drayton, but there are several other pubs to choose from in the town.

Day eight: Market Drayton to Norbury Junction 11 miles, 5 locks, 5 hours 20 minutes

Locks x 5 at Tyrley, a mile south of Market Drayton.
Start of 17 mile pound with embankments and cuttings: Woodseaves cutting; Shebden embankment; Grubb Street cutting.
Loynton Moss: floating bog managed by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust. Accessible from bridge 39.
Moor on the right above or below Bridge 38 at Norbury Junction.
Dinner on board the boat.

Day nine: Norwood Junction to Brewood 10 miles, 1 lock, 4 hours 25 minutes

More cuttings and embankments.
Deep cutting at Cowley Tunnel.
Lock x 1 at Wheaton Aston about 3 miles before Brewood.
Moor by Bridge 14 at Brewood (Pronounced Brood).
Dinner at The Bridge Inn canalside at Bridge 14. The pub also offers laundrette facilities for boaters if needed.

Day 10: Brewood to Gailey Wharf 12 miles, 1 lock, 5 hours 20 minutes

Enter Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal through stop lock at Autherley Junction.
Several narrow sections both approaching and leaving Autherley junction.
Morrisons supermarket in Pendeford, a short walk from the canal with mooring just prior to Autherley Junction.
Gailey Wharf (visitors moorings), with toll keeper’s watch-tower and canal shop.
Dinner at The Spread Eagle in Gailey, a 15 minute walk from the canal.

Day 11: Gailey Wharf to Radford Bridge 8 miles, 11 locks, 5 hours 30 minutes

Locks x 6 between Gailey Wharf and Penkridge: Gailey Top (No. 32); Brick Kiln (No. 33); Bogg’s (No. 34); Rodbaston (No. 35); Otherton (No 36); Filance (No 37).
Locks x 5 from Penkridge to Radford Bridge: Penkridge (No. 38) by Penkridge Bridge; Longford (No. 39); Park Gate (No. 40.); Shutt Hill (No. 41); Deptmore (No. 42).
Locks in this section are evenly spaced and are attractive, with some having bridges.
Radford Bridge (No. 98) visitor moorings on right above and below bridge.
Stafford is 1 mile west of Radford Bridge. Bus, walk or taxi.
Aldi supermarket for supplies, a 5 minute walk from the canal.
Evening meal at The Radford Bank Inn (Stonehouse), beside the canal. Excellent carvery.

Day 12: Radford Bridge to Stone 14 miles, 5 locks, 6 hours 40 minutes

3 miles with 1 lock at Tixall (No43) followed by Tixall Wide.
To visit the National Trust’s Shugborough Estate. Moor on right bank before Great Haywood Junction. Access on foot is from Haywood lock / Essex Bridge on Trent & Mersey south of junction.
Enter Trent & Mersey Canal at Great Haywood junction, turning north (left).
The Hollybush Inn at Salt accessed from Bridge 82. Renovated thatched pub.
8 miles with 4 locks: Hoo Mill (No. 23); Weston (No. 24); Sandon (No. 25); Aston (No. 26).
Moorings above and below Lock 27 / Bridge 93.
If short of time could moor south of Stone after Sandon or Aston locks.
Stone supermarkets – M & S, Morrisons & Aldi.
Dinner in Stone centre at The Poste of Stone. The Star (Marstons) – canalside at Lock 27 is very attractive but no food served after 4pm weekdays and 5pm weekends.

Day 13: Stone to Barlaston 3 miles, 8 locks, 2 hours 50 minutes

Short day of boating so leisurely start with breakfast at The Poste of Stone 10 minutes walk from the boat.
Locks x 4 at Stone (27 to 30). Two above Stone centre and two below.
Locks x 4. Meaford flight (31 to 34) two miles south of Barlaston.
Moor by Bridge 103, Barlaston.
Evening meal at The Plume of Feathers – Neil Morrissey’s pub, by Bridge 103, moorings outside. Booked a table online as a busy, popular pub. Definitely recommended. Sunday roast superb.

Day 14: Barlaston to Longport 7 miles, 6 locks, 3 hours 30 minutes

Trentham Lock No. 35.
Locks x 5 (Nos. 36 to 40) South of Etruria Junction.
Factory Tour, World of Wedgewood accessible from Bridge 104 just south of Trentham.
Followed by Afternoon Tea and Pot Throwing.
Bottle kilns on right after Bridge 112 and on the left before bridge 115 (Lock 38).
Moored back at Black Prince base at Festival Park Marina, ready to return the boat at 9am the next morning.

You can read Marion’s full four-park review of her experience here.

You can see where all our bases are on the Four Counties Ring here.

Narrowboat on the Chirk Aqueduct next to Chirk Tunnel on the Llangollen Canal

Take to the water this August bank holiday

April 20, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

There are over 3,000 miles of beautiful inland waterways to explore by canal boat in Britain

Take to the water this August bank holiday weekend for an adventure afloat.

We still have plenty of narrowboats available to hire in August, many at a discounted rate.

To celebrate, here’s our guide to our top 6 weekend breaks afloat:

1. Cruise the Kennet & Avon to Georgian Bath

On a 4-night break from Devizes, you can cruise the Kennet & Avon Canal to the World Heritage City of Bath. The route passes a series of canalside pubs and the historic market town of Bradford on Avon. You’ll also cross over the beautiful Bath stone Avoncliff and Dundas aqueducts. There are over-night moorings at Sydney Wharf, a 15-minute walk from Bath City centre. The journey to Bath and back travels 39 miles, passes through 20 locks (10 each way) and takes around 19 cruising hours.

2. Glide through the Northamptonshire countryside to Cosgrove

On a weekend break from Weedon on the Grand Union Canal you can cruise through a series of Northamptonshire villages to Cosgrove and back. Pubs to stop off along the way include the Narrow Boat at Stowehill Wharf, the Bakers Arms at Bugbrooke and the Navigation Inn at Thrupp Wharf. You can also stop off to visit the Canal & River Trust’s fascinating Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne. The journey to Cosgrove and back travels 36 miles, passes through 16 locks and takes around 16 hours.

3. Float along the Llangollen Canal to Llangollen

From our base at Chirk on the Llangollen Canal, you can float through the Welsh Mountains to the Eisteddfod town of Llangollen in North Wales. Along the way you’ll pass over the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Chirk Aqueduct. The journey to Llangollen takes around 4 hours, travelling 7 miles, with no locks.

4. Cruise the Grand Union and Oxford canals to Hillmorton

From our base on the Grand Union Canal at Stockton, it takes around 7 hours to reach the historic canal village of Hillmorton. The route takes you through a series of villages with historic pubs. These include the Kings Head at Napton and the Admiral Nelson at Braunston. There are 6 locks to pass through, including the 3 at Hillmorton where volunteer lock keepers help you through. There’s a choice of pubs at Hillmorton, including the Stag & Pheasant.

5. Navigate the Shropshire Union to historic Chester

From Bunbury, it’s a 7-hour, 9-lock journey to the ancient city of Chester. The route passes through miles of beautiful Cheshire countryside and a series of villages with country pubs, including The Ring O’Bells at Christleton and The Shady Oak at Bates Mill Bridge. In Chester, you can take time to explore the city’s attractions, including its Roman city walls and Chester Rows shops.

6. Drift along the Calder & Hebble to Shepley Bridge

On a weekend break from Sowerby Bridge, you can travel along the leafy Calder & Hebble Navigation to Shepley Bridge and back. The route takes you through wooded valleys, and the historic towns of Elland and Brighouse. The journey there and back travels 22 miles, passes through 32 locks (16 each way) and takes around 16 hours.

The Globetrotter on a canal boat holiday on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire

The Globetrotter reviews a holiday from Whixall

April 17, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

First canal boat holiday experience described

Setting off from our canal boat hire base at Whixall Marina on the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal, The Globetrotter has written about their narrowboat holiday.

It was their first experience of a narrowboat holiday so they chose a nice and easy short break route. On a three-night weekend break, the Globetrotter cruised through the Shropshire Lake District to the historic market town of Ellesmere and back.

They’ve included details of their boat, route and places to visit along the way. Plus lots of helpful tips and advice for newcomers, including how to operate a lift bridge.

There are dozens of photos in the review giving a great insight into what the trip was like.

You can read the Globetrotter’s review here.

Tips for canal boat holiday beginners

March 27, 2026/in News/by Drifters

You don’t need a licence to hire a canal boat and we provide tuition

Each year around one fifth of narrowboat hirers are new to the waterways, and tuition is included in our canal boat holiday hire.

To help you get the most out of your first canal boat holiday, we’ve listed 10 top tips for beginners:

1. Watch a boater’s guide

Boat steering tuition is provided as part of our holiday hire. But to get ahead of the game, take a look at the Canal & River Trust’s Boaters Handbook Video for some sound advice.

2. Plan your route

The Canal & River Trust has interactive maps online to help you plan your narrowboat journey. You can work out where to moor each night and canalside pubs to enjoy along the way. It’s best not to be too ambitious so you can stay relaxed https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/boating/planning-your-boat-trip

3. Keep to the right

Unlike cars on our roads, canal boats travel on the right side of our canals and rivers, so when you meet another boat, keep to the right.

4. Watch out for the cill

When in a lock, make sure the boat is kept forward of the cill (step) inside the lock. And check all paddles and gates are shut after you’ve used a lock, unless you see another boat approaching.

5. Sharing is caring

If possible, always share a lock with other boats to save water. An extra boat in a broad lock can save the equivalent of 1,000 bath tubs of water. And it means you can share the lock operating work too.

6. Watch your wash

There’s a 4mph speed limit on the canals, but you’re going too fast if you’re creating too much wash. This disturbs wildlife, moored boats and anglers and it erodes the banks. So keep it to a slow walking pace and regularly check you are not creating a breaking wash behind your boat.

7. Slow down when passing moored boats

Reduce your speed further before you reach moored boats so that you don’t disturb them.

8. Practice good mooring etiquette

When mooring up at busy spots, make sure you don’t leave a big gap. And never moor opposite winding holes, on bends, near to bridges, on lock landings (unless waiting to lock through) or at water points (unless filling up). Don’t run your engine between 8pm and 8am, unless you are moored in isolation, out of earshot of others. And don’t run the engine in gear when your boat is moored, as it can damage the waterway walls.

9. Opt for a pet friendly stern

If you are bringing your dog, or you simply want a bit of extra outside space, opt for a cruiser stern narrowboat rather than a semi-traditional stern.

10. Bring some on board entertainment

For cosy nights in, bring along some cards and board games, as well some DVD’s. TV reception isn’t always available on the canals and WiFi strength can vary too.

Accessible trip boat at the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland

Accessible canal holidays and trips

March 25, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Accessible boating on Britain’s canal and river network

There are a number of charitable trusts and organisations that offer boats for hire that are specially adapted to accommodate people with limited mobility.

Accessible boat trips in the south west of England

The Bruce Wake Charitable Trust operates on the River Severn.
The Bruce Charitable Trust has boats on the Kennet & Avon Canal.
The Willow Trust operates on the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal.

Accessible boat trips in the south east of England

Waterways Experiences operates on the Grand Union Canal from Hemel Hempstead.
The Accessible Boating Association has boats on the Basingstoke Canal.
CanalAbility operates on the River Stort in Harlow.
The National Community Boats Association has members operating accessible boats, including on the Grand Union Canal in Milton Keynes.
The River Thames Boat Project operates from Kingston, Richmond and St Katharine Dock.
The Rivertime Boat Trust operates on the Thames between Windsor and Oxford.

Accessible boat trips in the Midlands

The Coventry Rainbow Canal Trust operates a boat on the Coventry Canal.
South Staffordshire Narrowboat Company operates from Wolverhampton.
The Nottingham Narrow Boat Project operates on the River Trent.
Canal & River Tours operate on the River Avon from Stratford-upon-Avon.
Willow Wren on the North Oxford Canal in Rugby has a narrowboat for hire designed for people with limited mobility.
Peter Le Marchant Trust has a boat in Loughborough.

Accessible boat trips in the north west of England

The Canal & River Trust operates a wheelchair accessible trip boat at the Anderton Boat Lift.
The Lyneal Trust has a boat on the Llangollen Canal near Ellesmere in Shropshire.
The Stockport Canalboat Trust runs day cruises on the Macclesfield and Peak Forest canals.
The Wirral Community Narrowboat Trust has boats on the Llangollen, Shropshire Union and Trent & Mersey canals.
All Aboard Manchester operates on the Bridgewater Canal.

Accessible boat trips in the north east of England

The Swinton Lock Activity Centre has an accessible boat on the Sheffield & South Yorkshire Navigation.

Accessible boat trips in Scotland

Seagull Trust Cruises run trips on the Union Canal from Ratho in Scotland.
Scottish Canals operate a wheelchair accessible trip boat at the Falkirk Wheel.

Accessible boat trips in Wales

The Monmouthshire, Brecon and Abergavenny Canals Trust (MBACT) operates a wheelchair accessible trip boat on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal from Goytre Wharf.
The Heulwen Trust runs a trip boat on the Montgomery Canal near Welshpool.

children on a narrowboat holiday in Britain

Best family canal boat holiday escapes this summer

March 24, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Canal boat holidays offer the chance to escape into the countryside for a nostalgic outdoor family adventure

To help plan your next adventure afloat, we’ve published a guide to our best family canal boat holiday escapes this summer.

There are over 3,000 miles of historic navigable waterways to explore in Great Britain, passing through some of our best loved countryside. Escaping into the country aboard a narrowboat gives you the chance to go off grid and connect with nature and each other.

Nigel Stevens of Drifters explains: “Families tend to arrive at our boat yards in a stressed and rushed state of mind. But once they’ve settled into the slower pace of life of a canal boat holiday, cruising slowly through the countryside, they unwind and become focused on the journey and each other.

“Parents often say how much they enjoyed seeing their children getting away from their screens and instead watching out for wildlife, noticing their surroundings and helping with the locks, steering and mooring up. They also enjoy playing cards and board games together in the evening, bringing back memories of their own family holidays when they were children.”

2026 summer holiday prices start at £910 for a short break (3 or 4 nights) on a boat for four people, £1,265 for a week.

Here’s a guide to our top 9 family canal boat holiday escapes this summer:

1. Cruise through the Fens to Cambridge and back (34 miles, 4 locks, 12 hours)

On a weekend break from Ely on the River Great Ouse, you can cruise gently through the countryside to Cambridge and back. The journey begins on the River Ouse to Wicken Fen, one of the National Trust’s beautiful wetland nature reserves. There you can moor up to enjoy walking through fenland and farmland, past marshes and reed beds. The journey then connects to the River Cam, and goes into the famous university city of Cambridge, where there are many beautiful buildings, including King’s College Chapel. Cambridge also has a great choice of shops and restaurants to visit, including the Ivy Brasserie and Bills.

2. Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’ (28 miles, 4 locks, 12.5 hours)

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, the Eisteddfod town of Llangollen on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains can be reached on a short break. Along the way, you’ll cruise across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. In Llangollen, you can enjoy visiting the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as its Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls. On the return journey, you’ll head back across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and can continue on past Chirk Marina to experience more of the 11-mile World Heritage site, going through Chirk Tunnel and over Chirk Aqueduct and on to Whittington. Canalside pubs to enjoy include the Bridge at Chirk Bank and the Sun at Trevor.

3. Cruise up the Shroppie to Barbridge and back (84 miles, 58 locks, 42 hours)

On a week-long break from Autherley near Wolverhampton, you can cruise up the Shropshire Union Canal to Barbridge and back. The route takes you through the Staffordshire countryside and a series of villages with historic pubs. These include: the Lesters Arms at Brewood; the Hartley Arms at Wheaton Aston; the Boat Inn at Gnosall; and the Shroppie Fly at Audlem. The canal goes through a series of deep cuttings, full of vegetation and wildlife. Along the way, you can visit Market Drayton, famous for its gingerbread, the Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker Museum and the Dorfold Hall Jacobean Museum at Nantwich. At Barbridge you’ll find the canalside Olde Barbridge Inn.

4. Navigate to Bradford on Avon & back (20 miles, 14 locks, 11 hours)

On a short break from Devizes on the Kennet & Avon Canal you can navigate to the medieval market town of Bradford on Avon and back. The route takes you through the Wiltshire countryside, and a series of locks and swing bridges. Bradford on Avon on the edge of the Cotswolds, often described as a ‘mini Bath’, is the perfect destination for a family canal boat holiday escape this summer. The town has a great choice of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as riverside walks and historic buildings, including a stunning medieval Tithe Barn. Canalside pubs to enjoy include the Barge Inn at Seend and the Canal Tavern at Bradford on Avon.

5. Boat through the Yorkshire countryside to the old mill town of Hebden Bridge (14 miles, 20 locks, 11 hours)

On a short break from Sowerby Bridge in West Yorkshire, you can travel along the Rochdale Canal to the old mill town of Hebden Bridge and back. Climbing through woods, fields and small stone towns, the journey there and back covers 14 miles, passes through 20 locks (10 each way) and takes around 11 hours. Once at Hebden, you can enjoy a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs, as well as stunning countryside walks with woods and crags to explore. Canalside pubs to visit include the Shoulder of Mutton at Mytholmroyd and the Stubbing Wharf at Hebden Bridge.

6. Travel along the peaceful Ashby Canal SSSI to Shakerstone and back (95 miles, 8 locks, 37 hours)

On a week’s holiday from Braunston on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire, you can explore the beautiful Ashby Canal. The route starts with navigating a section of the Oxford Canal and passing through three locks at Hillmorton. You’ll then transfer onto the Coventry Canal at Hawkesbury Junction and the Ashby Canal at Marston Junction. This peaceful 22-mile long waterway passes the historic town of Market Bosworth and the site of the Battle of Bosworth Field. A 6-mile stretch of the Ashby Canal from Snarestone to Carlton Bridge is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its aquatic plants and dragonflies, making it one of the best canals to spot wildlife. Canalside pubs to visit include the Admiral Nelson at Braunston, the Greyhound at Hawkesbury Junction and the Barley Mow at Newbold.

6. Cruise through Cannock Chase to Fradley & back (25 miles, 10 locks, 12 hours)

On a short break from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal near Stafford, you can cruise to Fradley Junction and back. They journey passes through the Cannock Chase Forest with over 6,800 acres of heath land and ancient woodland to explore. At Fradley you can follow the woodland trail at boardwalk at Fradley Pool Nature Reserve. Canalside pubs to visit include the Wolseley Arms at Wolseley Bridge, the Ash Tree at Rugeley and the Swan Inn at Fradley.

7. Boat to the ‘Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’ & back (23 miles, 6 locks, 12.5 hours)

On a short break from Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, you can cruise to Gargrave ‘Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales’ and back. The route takes you through the beautiful River Aire Valley and Skipton with its medieval castle and woods. At Gargrave you can moor up and walk into the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Pubs to enjoy include the White Lion at Kildwick, the Slaters Arms at Bradley and the Mason’s Arms at Gargrave.

8. Navigate the Grand Union Canal to Linslade and back (73 miles, 28 locks, 30 hours)

On a 7-night break from Weedon in Northamptonshire you can cruise along the Grand Union Canal to Linslade and back. The journey takes you past a series of canalside pubs. These include: the Narrow Boat at Stowe Hill; the Navigation Inn at Thrupp; the Red Lion at Fenny Stratford; and the Three Locks at Soulbury. Places to visit along the way include the Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne and Linford Lakes Nature Reserve at Great Lindford. The route also goes through the 1.74-mile long Blisworth Tunnel, the third longest navigable tunnel on the UK canal system. At Linslade, next to Leighton Buzzard, there’s an arts centre and a choice of places to eat and shop.

9. Travel through the Scottish Lowlands to Edinburgh & back (64 miles, 6 locks, 22 hours)

On a week’s break from Falkirk you can cruise along the peaceful Union Canal to Edinburgh Quay and back. The journey begins with a passage through the Falkirk Wheel, and then passes through the lovely Scottish Lowland villages of Linlithgow, Broxburn and Ratho. Visitor moorings are available at Edinburgh Quay, just a 5-minute walk from Princes Street. From there, you can visit the City’s many attractions, including Edinburgh Castle and Mary King Close. Pubs to enjoy along the way include the Bridge Inn at Ratho and the West Port Hotel at Linlithgow.

Enjoy a spring day out afloat on a canal boat

Spring days out afloat

March 4, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Drifters offers canal boats for day hire at 19 locations in England and Wales

Spring is a great time of year to get family and friends together for a day out boating.

Britain’s 2,000-mile network of canals and rivers in England and Wales wind through some of the nation’s best-loved countryside. You can pack a picnic or stop off at a canalside pub for lunch.

We offer day boat hire at 19 locations in England and Wales. Full tuition is included and all our day boats are equipped with cutlery, crockery and a kettle. Most also have a toilet, cooker and fridge.

Boats range in size and can accommodate between 8 and 12 people. Our boats are pet-friendly and many have electric engines.

Here’s a guide to some of our best spring days out afloat:

Cruise through Shakespeare country to Wilmcote (Warwickshire)

On a day out boating from Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal you can cruise to the village of Wilmcote and back. The journey takes 2.5 hours each way and crosses the impressive Edstone Aqueduct, with beautiful views across the Warwickshire countryside. You can visit the Mary Arden Inn at Wilmcote or the View Restaurant at Hill Farm Marina, close to Edstone Aqueduct.

*Day boats ‘Dolly’, ‘Charlie’ and ‘Emma’ can carry up to 10 people each. Weekday hire is £120. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire is £165.

Boat through the Shropshire Lake District to Prees (Shropshire)

From Blackwater Meadow Marina on the Llangollen Canal near Ellesmere, you can cruise through the Shropshire Lake District to Prees and back. The lock-free return journey takes around 6 hours and goes through one short tunnel. The route passes Blake Mere and Cole Mere where there are some great walking and picnic spots.

*Day boat ‘Lazy Days’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £119. Weekend and bank holiday day hire starts at £149.

Navigate through Cannock Chase to the Wolseley Arms (Staffordshire)

From Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal near Stafford, you can cruise to the historic market town of Rugeley and back. The journey takes around 2 hours and goes through 2 locks. You’ll pass through the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. And you’ll pass the popular Wolseley Arms pub at Wolseley Bridge. When you reach the village of Rugeley, you walk to the canalside Colliers pub.

*Day boats ‘Daphne’ and ‘Abi’ can carry up to 10 people each. Weekday hire is £120. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire is £165.

Glide along the leafy Worcester & Birmingham Canal (Worcestershire)

On a day out from Alvechurch Marina near Bromsgrove you can cruise through the remains of the Forest of Arden to Kings Norton Junction and back. Along the way you can stop off at the canalside Hopwood House pub and enjoy a walk around the Bittell Reservoirs, a haven for bird life. The route is lock-free and takes you through Wast Hills Tunnel, which is over 1.5 miles long.

*Electric day boats ‘Away Day’ and ‘Fun Day’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £131. Weekend and bank holiday day hire starts at £164.

Navigate to The Star Inn at Mamhillad in the Brecon Beacons (Monmouthshire)

On day out boating along on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal from Goytre Wharf you can cruise through the beautiful Usk Valley. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach moorings close to the popular Star pub at Mamhillad, a short walk from bridge 62.

*Electric day boat ‘Golden Day’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £131. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire starts at £164.

Cruise along the Grand Union Canal to Napton-on-the-Hill (Northamptonshire)

On a day boat from Braunston in heart of the canal network you can reach the historic village of Napton-on-the-Hill. The lock-free journey goes through the Northamptonshire countryside and into Warwickshire. When you reach Napton, you can moor up and walk into the village where there’s a choice of pubs, including the Kings Head. There’s also a shop with a deli, local produce and homemade meals. The journey to Napton and back takes around 6 hours.

*Day boat ‘Ouzel II’ can carry up to 12 people. Weekday hire is £150. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire is £195.

Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’ (Wrexham)

From Trevor on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales you can travel across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Standing at over 38 metres high above the Dee Valley, this incredible structure offers amazing views of the Dee Valley below. After cruising across the Aqueduct, there are 2 tunnels and another aqueduct to cross, before you reach the Bridge Inn at Chirk Bank. The journey to Chirk and back takes around 5 hours.

*Day boats ‘Jacob’, ‘Daniel’ and ‘Lotty’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire is £155. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire is £199.

Boat along the Kennet & Avon Canal to Brassknocker Basin (Wiltshire)

From Bradford on Avon Marina you can cruise west through the Bath Valley to Brassknocker Basin and back. The route takes you through Bradford on Avon Lock and across the magnificent Bath stone Avoncliff and Dundas aqueducts. At Brassknocker Basin you can stop off at the Angelfish café. The journey there and back travels 9 miles and takes around 4 hours.

*Day boats ‘Jacy’, ‘Emily’, ‘Katherine’, ‘Sally’ & ‘Grace’ can carry up to 10 people each. Weekday hire is £185. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire is £199.

Navigate through the West Berkshire countryside to the Spring Inn (Berkshire)

From Aldermaston on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Reading you can cruise through the West Berkshire countryside to Theale and back. There you can take a 10-minute walk to enjoy lunch at the Spring Inn at Sulhamstead. The total journey takes just over 4 hours and passes through 2 locks each way.

*Day boat ‘Happy Days’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £149. Weekend and bank holiday hire starts at £249.

Enjoy views of the Peak District on the Peak Forest Canal (Derbyshire)

On a day out boating from New Mills Marina you can cruise to Marple and back, enjoying fantastic views of the rolling countryside along the way. There are moorings at the bottom of the Marple Lock flight and the chance to watch boats passing through one of the steepest lock flights in Britain. The Hatton Arms in Marple is a short walk away. The journey to Marple and back takes 5.5 hours and there are no locks.

*Electric day boat ‘Field Day’ can accommodate up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £119. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire starts at £149.

Float along the Shropshire Union Canal to Nantwich (Cheshire)

From Bunbury Wharf near Tarporley you can cruise south for 6 miles to Nantwich and back. The journey travels across the impressive Grade II* listed Nantwich Aqueduct, with panoramic views across the town, and passes the canalside Olde Barbridge Inn. The journey to Nantwich takes around 2.5 hours and there are no locks.

*Day boat ‘Bella’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire is £99. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire is £165.

Boat along the Kennet & Avon Canal to Avoncliff Aqueduct (Wiltshire)

From Hilperton Marina, near Trowbridge you can cruise west through the Bath Valley to Avoncliff and back. Along the way you’ll pass through the medieval market town of Bradford on Avon. There’s just one lock to pass through at Bradford on Avon. When you reach the impressive Bath stone Avoncliff Aqueduct you can moor up visit The Cross Guns pub. Or the No.10 canalside cafe. The journey to Avoncliff and back takes around 6 hours.

*Electric day boat ‘Seize the Day’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £131. Weekend and bank holiday day boat hire starts at £219.

Cruise through the countryside to Atherstone (Warwickshire)

On a day out from Springwood Haven Marina on the Coventry Canal near Nuneaton you can cruise through the Warwickshire countryside to the historic market town of Atherstone and back. The route passes the canalside Anchor Inn and return journey takes around 3 hours.

*Electric day boat ‘Sunny Day’ can accommodate up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £119. Weekend and bank holiday hire starts at £149.

Navigate to the Fenn’s, Whixall & Bettisford Mosses National Nature Reserve (Shropshire)

From Whitchurch Marina on the Llangollen Canal you can cruise through the Shropshire countryside to the Fenn’s, Whixall and Bettisford Mosses National Nature Reserve. The journey there and back takes around 6 hours. There are no locks but there are 3 lift bridges to negotiate. Whixall Mosses Nature Reserve is the perfect spot for a walk and a picnic.

*Electric day boat ‘Perfect Day’ can accommodate up to 10 people. Weekday hire starts at £131. Weekend and bank holiday hire starts at £219.

A boating holiday scene on the Kennet & Avon Canal

Top 10 narrow boat holidays for 2026

February 24, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Cruising at 4mph aboard a canal boat is often described as the ‘fastest way to slow down’.

Many of our operators are offering early booking discounts, so we’ve published a guide to our top 10 narrow boat holidays for 2026.

Britain’s 3,000-mile network of peaceful inland waterways wind through the countryside and into historic waterside towns and cities, so there are hundreds of destinations to choose from.

Our 2026 hire prices start at £599 for a short break (three or four nights) on a boat for up to four people, £875 for a week.

Drifters top 10 narrow boat holidays for 2026:

1. Travel along the peaceful Ashby Canal SSSI to Shakerstone and back (95 miles, 8 locks, 37 hours)

On a week’s holiday from Braunston on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire, you can cruise can explore the beautiful Ashby Canal. The route begins along the Oxford Canal, soon passing through three locks at Hillmorton. You’ll then transfer onto the Coventry Canal at Hawkesbury Junction and onto the Ashby Canal at Marston Junction. The lock-free Ashby Canal passes the historic town of Market Bosworth and the site of the Battle of Bosworth Field. A six-mile stretch of the Ashby Canal from Snarestone to Carlton Bridge is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) for its aquatic plants and dragonflies, making it one of the best canals to spot wildlife. Canalside pubs to visit include the Greyhound at Hawkesbury Junction and the Barley Mow at Newbold.

2. Float across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct (28 miles, 4 locks, 12.5 hours)

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, you can reach the Eisteddfod town of Llangollen on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains on a short break, crossing the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct along the way. In Llangollen, you can enjoy visiting the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as its Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls. On the return journey, you can head back across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. And on through the 11-mile World Heritage site to Whittington and back. Canalside pubs to enjoy include the Bridge at Chirk Bank and the Sun at Trevor.

3. Cruise through Cannock Chase to Fradley & back (25 miles, 10 locks, 12 hours)

On a short break from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal near Stafford, you can cruise to Fradley Junction and back. The journey passes through the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with over 6,800 acres of heath land and ancient woodland to explore. Canalside pubs to stop off at include the Wolseley Arms at Wolseley Bridge, the Ash Tree at Rugeley and the Swan Inn at Fradley.

4. Navigate the Kennet & Avon Canal to Georgian Bath and back (39 miles, 16 locks, 18 hours)

From the base of the Caen Hill flight of locks at Devizes in Wiltshire, you can travel along the Kennet & Avon Canal to Bath and back. As well as 16 locks (eight each way), the journey takes you through a series of swing bridges and over the magnificent Bath stone Avoncliff and Dundas aqueducts. Canalside pubs to enjoy along the way include the Barge Inn at Seend, the Canal Tavern at Bradford on Avon and the Cross Guns at Avoncliff. Once at Sydney Gardens, you can moor up and take a 15-minute walk into Bath city centre to visit world famous attractions, including the Roman Baths.

5. Glide through the Staffordshire countryside to Market Drayton and back (42 miles, 12 locks, 20 hours)

On a week’s break from Brewood on the Shropshire Union Canal in Staffordshire, you can cruise to the historic market town of Market Drayton and back. The journey takes you through the Staffordshire countryside. And past a series of villages with historic pubs, including the Boat Inn at Gnosall, the Junction Inn at Norbury Wharf and the Boat Inn at Shebdon. The route also takes you through a series of deep canal cuttings, full of vegetation and wildlife.

6. Boat along the Calder & Hebble to Shepley and back (22 miles, 32 locks, 16 hours)

On a short break from Sowerby Bridge in West Yorkshire, you can cruise along the leafy Calder & Hebble Navigation to Shepley Bridge and back. The route navigates through wooded valleys and the historic towns of Elland and Brighouse. At Elland there are two canalside pubs to moor alongside, and at Brighouse there’s a choice of restaurants, pubs and shops.

7. Cruise into Birmingham city centre and back (22 miles, 0 locks, 10 hours)

On a weekend break from Alvechurch on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal near Bromsgrove, you can travel into Birmingham. The journey begins cruising through the remains of the Forest of Arden and a series of canal tunnels. The route takes you through Edgbaston Tunnel and into the heart of Birmingham where there are over-night moorings at Gas Street Basin. From there, it’s a short walk to Brindleyplace and city centre attractions, including the Sealife Centre and Thinktank Science Museum.

8. Navigate the Grand Union Canal to Thrupp Wharf and back (33 miles, 14 locks, 14 hours)

On a short break from Weedon in Northamptonshire, you can cruise to Thrupp Wharf and back. The journey takes you through the Northamptonshire countryside. And past a series of canalside pubs, including the Narrow Boat at Stowe Hill, the Boat Inn at Stoke Bruerne and the Navigation Inn at Thrupp Wharf. The route also goes through the 1.74-mile long Blisworth Tunnel, the third longest navigable tunnel on the UK canal system. And past the Canal & River Trust’s Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne, telling the story of the working boat people.

9. Boat through the Scottish Lowlands to Edinburgh Quay and back (64 miles, 6 locks, 22 hours)

On a 7-night break from Falkirk, you can cruise along the Union Canal to Edinburgh Quay and back. The route starts at the site of the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift. The journey then takes you through the Falkirk Tunnel and across the magnificent Avon Aqueduct. Next you’ll cruise through the historic villages of Linlithgow and Ratho. Once in Edinburgh, you can moor up in Edinburgh Quay and walk into the city centre to visit attractions including Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh Castle and Mary King Close.

10. Travel to Skipton and the Yorkshire Dales and back (23 Miles, 6 locks, 12.5 hours)

On a short break from Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Yorkshire, you can cruise to Gargrave and back. Along the way you’ll pass through the stunning scenery of Airedale and the village of Kildwick with its White Lion pub. When you reach the ancient market town of Skipton, you can moor up to visit Skipton Castle. Three miles further along at Gargrave there are plenty of pubs and you can easily access the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

Llangollen Canal still open for holidays

February 22, 2026/in News/by Contact

30 miles of the Llangollen Canal from Llangollen to Whitchurch are still open

Despite the breach on the Llangollen Canal on 22 December 2025 at Whitchurch in Shropshire, most of the Llangollen Canal is still open for holidays.

The canal and towpath are closed between Bridge 31A Whitchurch Bypass Bridge and Lock 6 Grindley Brook Lock. The Canal & River Trust is currently planning the engineering works needed to repair the breach, but this section is unlikely to re-open in the 2026 boating season.

You can still cruise the Llangollen Canal from four of our bases

Cruising to Llangollen and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct UNESCO World Heritage site from our Whitchurch, Blackwater Meadow, Chirk and Trevor canal boat hire bases remains open and available.

Thirty miles of the Llangollen Canal are still navigable from Llangollen to Whitchurch, including the 11-mile section designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. And an 8-mile stretch of the Montgomery Canal from Frankton Junction to Crickheath is also open and accessible from Trevor, Chirk, Blackwater Meadow, Whixall and Whitchurch.

Anyone who has booked with us to cruise the Llangollen from Wrenbury, Bunbury, Nantwich should contact us on 0344 984 0322 to transfer the booking.

Examples of canal boat holiday routes and destinations still available:

Float across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to Llangollen

On a weekend break from Chirk, you can cruise the 11-mile section of the Llangollen Canal designated a UNESCO World Heritage site to the Eisteddfod town of Llangollen. Along the way, you’ll cross the 38-metre high Pontcysyllte Aqueduct experiencing stunning views of the Dee Valley below. When you reach Llangollen, you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and enjoy visiting the historic town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as its Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls.

The journey to Llangollen and back travels 14 miles and takes around 6 hours.

Cruise across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and on to Ellesmere

On a short break (3 or 4 nights) from Trevor near Wrexham, you can cruise across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and on to the historic market town of Ellesmere, in the heart of the Shropshire Lake District. Once at Ellesmere, you can moor up to explore this historic market town, including its famous Mere, with woodland walks, castle, gardens and Boathouse café.

The journey from Trevor to Ellesmere and back travels 28 miles, passing through 4 locks (2 each way) and takes around 14 hours.

Cruise through the Shropshire countryside to Chirk

On a weekend break from Blackwater Meadow you can cruise through the Shropshire countryside to Chirk. The journey crosses the stunning Chirk Aqueduct, spanning the border from England to Wales. Then goes through Chirk Tunnel to Chirk Marina, where you can moor up to visit the National Trust’s Chirk Castle up on the hill. There’s a café at the castle, and choice of canalside pubs, including The Bridge at Chirk Bank.

The journey from Blackwater Meadow to Chirk and back takes around 11 hours and there are only 2 locks to pass through each way.

Explore the Llangollen and Montgomery canals

On a week-long break from Whixall Marina, you can cruise to Llangollen and Crickheath on the Montgomery Canal. The journey begins cruising through the Shropshire Lake District along the Llangollen Canal. You can stop off to explore the historic market town of Ellesmere before continuing to Frankton Junction, where the Llangollen Canal meets the Montgomery Canal. There are 4 locks to go through at Frankton and then there’s an 8-mile-long section of the Montgomery Canal to explore, passing through Oswestry and Maesbury Marsh. You can turn at Crickheath Basin and head back the Llangollen Canal. Then travel on to Llangollen, experiencing the 11-mile section of the canal designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Chirk and Pontcysyllte Aqueducts.

The journey to Crickheath and Llangollen and back travels 67 miles, passing through 20 locks (10 each way) and takes around 34 hours.

Cruise through the Shropshire Lake District to Llangollen

On a week-long break from Whitchurch, you can cruise to Llangollen and back. The route takes you through the Shropshire Lake District and the historic market town of Ellesmere. Then on along the 11-mile UNESCO World Heritage section, including the Chirk and Pontcysyllte aqueducts. Once in Llangollen, you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and take time to explore this beautiful town on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains.

The journey from Whitchurch to Llangollen and back travels 61 miles, passing through 4 locks (2 each way) and takes around 27 hours.

Canal boat holiday on Britain's inland waterways

Best spring canal boat holidays 2026

February 16, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Drifters guide to the best spring canal boat holidays in 2026

Cruising Britain’s beautiful inland waterways aboard a canal boat is a great way to see the spring countryside bursting with new life.

Travelling at just 4mph, you can enjoy watching out for nesting birds, waterfowl chicks, spring lambs and blossom on the trees and hedgerows that line our waterways.

Drifters offers over 500 boats for hire from 40 locations across England, Scotland and Wales.

2026 hire prices start at £713 for a short break (three or four nights) on a boat for up to four people, £980 for a week. Tuition is included in all our holiday prices and most of our boats are pet-friendly.

Cruise down the Oxford Canal to Banbury and back (46 miles, 44 locks, 25 hours)

On a week’s holiday from Napton you can cruise through the spring countryside to Banbury and back. The route begins cruising past Napton-on-the-Hill with is canalside Folly pub and excellent village shop selling local produce. Next you’ll encounter the nine-lock Napton Flight, which stretches for two miles. At Fenny Compton there’s another canalside pub – the Wharf Inn. The route then goes through Fenny Compton Tunnel and the Claydon Flight of five locks. The village of Claydon is home to the quaint Marton Museum of Country Bygones. At Cropredy, famous for its annual folk music festival, you can visit the Brasenose Arms. In Banbury you’ll find Tooley’s Boatyard Museum, the Banbury Cross and a choice of historic pubs, including Ye Olde Reindeer Inn.

Navigate the Llangollen Canal UNESCO World Heritage site (28 miles, 4 locks, 12.5 hours)

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, Llangollen on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains can be reached on a short break, crossing the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct along the way. When you reach Llangollen you can visit the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as its Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls. On the return journey, you’ll head back across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and on through the 11-mile World Heritage site to Whittington and back. Canalside pubs to enjoy include the Bridge at Chirk Bank and the Sun at Trevor.

Travel through the Staffordshire countryside to Drayton Manor Theme Park and back (48 miles, 10 locks, 22 hours)

On a 7-night break from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal near Stafford, you can cruise to moorings next to Drayton Manor Theme Park. The journey takes you through the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a series of villages with canalside pubs. These include: the Wolseley Arms at Wolseley Bridge; the Ash Tree at Rugeley; the Swan Inn at Fradley; and the Plough Inn at Huddlesford. After turning right at Fazeley Junction, you can moor up close to Coleshill Road Bridge and then walk to Drayton Manor Theme Park, home to over 50 rides and attractions.

Cruise through the Fens to Cambridge and back (34 miles, 4 locks, 12 hours)

On a weekend break from Ely on the River Great Ouse, you can cruise gently through the countryside to Cambridge and back. The journey begins on the River Ouse and you’ll soon reach Wicken Fen, one of the National Trust’s beautiful wetland nature reserves. There you can moor up to enjoy walking through fenland and farmland, past marshes and reed beds. The journey then connects to the River Cam, and goes into the famous university city of Cambridge, where there are many beautiful buildings, including King’s College Chapel. Cambridge also has a great choice of shops and restaurants to visit, including the Ivy Brasserie and Bills.

Navigate the Kennet & Avon Canal to Georgian Bath and back (25 miles, 2 locks, 13 hours)

On a weekend break from Hilperton on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Wiltshire, you can cruise to Syndey Gardens in Bath and back. The journey takes you through Bradford on Avon Lock and across the magnificent Bath stone Avoncliff and Dundas aqueducts. Canalside pubs to enjoy along the way include the Canal Tavern at Bradford on Avon, the Cross Guns at Avoncliff and the George at Bathampton. Once at Sydney Gardens you can moor up and take a 15-minute walk into Bath city centre to visit world famous attractions, including the Roman Baths and the Royal Crescent.

Glide through the Staffordshire countryside to Market Drayton and back (42 miles, 12 locks, 20 hours)

On a week’s break from Brewood on the Shropshire Union Canal in Staffordshire, you can cruise to the historic market town of Market Drayton. The journey travels slowly through the peaceful Staffordshire countryside, past a series of villages with historic pubs, including the Boat Inn at Gnosall, the Junction Inn at Norbury Wharf and the Boat Inn at Shebdon. The route also takes you rough a series of deep canal cuttings, full of vegetation and wildlife.

Boat along the Rochdale Canal to Hebden Bridge and back (14 miles, 20 locks, 11 hours)

On a short break from Sowerby Bridge in West Yorkshire, you can cruise along the Rochdale Canal to Hebden Bridge and back. The route navigates slowly along the side of the valley, passing the Lord Nelson pub at Luddenden Foot and Mytholmroyd, birthplace of Ted Huges. At Henden Bridge, there’s a choice of independent restaurants, pubs and shops and fantastic walks up to Heptonstall and along Hardcastle Crags.

Navigate the Grand Union Canal to Linslade and back (73 miles, 28 locks, 30 hours)

On a 7-night break from Weedon in Northamptonshire, you can cruise along the Grand Union Canal to Linslade and back. The journey takes you through the countryside past a series of canalside pubs, including: the Narrow Boat at Stowe Hill; the Boat Inn at Stoke Bruerne; the Navigation Inn at Thrupp; the Red Lion at Fenny Stratford; and the Three Locks at Soulbury. The route also goes through the 1.74-mile long Blisworth Tunnel, the third longest navigable tunnel on the UK canal system. At Linslade, next to Leighton Buzzard, there’s an arts centre and a choice of places to eat and shop.

Best narrowboat holidays for wildlife spotting

February 14, 2026/in News/by Contact

Britain’s canals and rivers provide homes for many birds, animals, fish and insects

Cruising gently through the countryside on a narrowboat, you can enjoy spotting water birds, dragonflies, kingfishers and bats. Even in city centres, Britain’s network of inland waterways provide safe havens for a wide variety of plants and animals.

We’ve published a guide to the best narrowboat holidays for wildlife spotting.

1. Spot Kingfishers on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, South Wales

Isolated from the main canal network, this beautiful waterway meanders peacefully for 36 miles through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal in Wales provides excellent habitat for many woodland and water birds, including kingfishers. Usually glimpsed as a sudden flash of glistening blue, the ‘King of Fishers’ travels at lightning speeds catching several fish each day.

We have a narrowboat hire base on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal at Gotyre Wharf.

2. Watch out for Bats on the Caldon Canal, Derbyshire

The 17-mile long Caldon Canal in Staffordshire has stunning wooded sections, providing rich habitat for bats. There are 18 different kinds of bat in Britain, including Daubenton’s bats, also known as the ‘water bat’. They use the canal and river network extensively for foraging. Bats can frequently be found roosting in hollowed out tree trunks and in canal bridges and aqueducts. The Canal & River Trust has published a guide on how to spot bats.

We have a canal boat hire base at Stoke on Trent, where the Caldon Canal meets the Trent & Mersey Canal.

3. Count Dragonflies on the Ashby Canal, Leicestershire

A 6-mile section of the Ashby Canal is designated a Special Site of Scientific Interest (SSSI). This recognises the diversity of the canal’s plant, insect and animal life, including 9 species of dragonfly. These colourful insects, whose origins began 300 million years ago, are voracious hunters. They use the reed fringes of our canals and rivers as breeding and hunting grounds.

You can reach the Ashby Canal on a week-long canal boat holiday from our bases at Springwood Haven, Braunston, Napton and Stockton.

4. Look out for Otters on the Montgomery Canal, Shropshire

This beautiful canal runs for 38 miles between England and Wales. It’s designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) on both sides of the border. And the entire length in Wales is also recognised as a Special Area of Conservation, making it one of the most important sites for wildlife in Europe. Thanks to the work of conservationists, otters populations are showing healthy signs of growth after their sad decline in the 1950’s. Lakes, rivers and coastal areas are the otters’ natural habitats. But these timid nocturnal creatures can also be seen hunting on quiet stretches of the canals.

You can reach the Montgomery Canal on a short break or week away from our narrowboat rental bases at Blackwater Meadow, Chirk, Trevor. Whitchurch and Whixall.

5. Listen for Reed Bunting on the Droitwich Canals, Worcestershire

Many birds live and nest amongst the reeds that line some canals, including the chirruping reed bunting. Look out for them perched high on reed tops singing at the top of their voices. One of the best places to see these lively little birds are the Droitwich Canals in Worcestershire. These canals offer a linear mosaic of habitats, including substantial reedbeds. Reed buntings are sparrow-sized but slim with long, deeply notched tails. The male has a black head with a white collar in the summer. The black head becomes a dull brown in the winter. Females have a brown head, buff throat and buff-coloured lines above and below their eyes.

You can cruise the Droitwich Canals on a short break or week away from our Stoke Prior and Worcester bases.

6. Keep an eye out for Water Voles on the Oxford Canal, Oxfordshire

The endangered water vole is a special sight on our canals and rivers. Thanks to conservation efforts by the Canal & River Trust and the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Wildlife Trust, water voles have been spotted along the Oxford Canal. Often mistaken for rats, water voles have distinguishing features, including shorter tails, a more rounded face and small ears, mostly hidden by fur. The Canal & River Trust offers tips on how to spot a water vole.

Drifters has bases on the Oxford Canal at Lower Heyford and Napton.

Canal boat travelling along the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire

May bank holiday weekend breaks on a canal boat

January 20, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

There are hundreds of destinations to visit on a bank holiday canal boating break

Britain’s beautiful 3,000-mile network of inland waterways takes canal boat holiday-makers through the countryside and into historic towns and cities. There are places to moor up in quiet backwaters for the perfect rural retreat, as well as moorings close to attractions and amenities in towns and cities, like Linlithgow and Bath.

Drifters 2026 Top May Bank Holiday Weekend Breaks on a Canal Boat:

1. Cruise the Rochdale Canal to Hebden Bridge

On a weekend break from Sowerby Bridge, you can cruise through the West Yorkshire countryside to Hebden Bridge and back. The journey begins with 3 locks, including Tuel Lane Lock, the deepest in the country. At Luddenden Foot you can stop to visit the Lord Nelson pub, set within a Conservation Area. The route then passes through Mytholmroyd, birthplace of Ted Hughes and through Fallingroyd Tunnel to Hebden Bridge. There you can moor in the centre of town and discover a good choice of pubs, restaurants, cafes and independent shops. There are also some fantastic walks from Hebden, including up to Heptonstall and along Hardcastle Crags.

The journey to Hebden Bridge and back travels 14 miles, passes through 20 locks and takes around 11 hours.

2. Travel along the Union Canal to Linlithgow

From Falkirk at the Junction of the Union and Forth & Clyde canals, you can cruise through the Scottish Lowlands to Linlithgow and back. This route begins by going through a manned lock into the canal basin, and then up the Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first rotating boat lift. After that, the journey takes you through Roughmute Tunnel, followed by another 2 manned locks. Now on the Union Canal, you’ll travel through the Falkirk Tunnel and across the massive Avon Aqueduct. After enjoying miles of peaceful countryside, you’ll reach the historic town of Linlithgow, where you can visit the beautifully preserved remains of Linlithgow Palace on the shores of Linlithgow Loch, the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Linlithgow has some excellent eateries, including the award-winning Four Marys pub.

The journey to Linlithgow and back passes through 6 locks (3 each way) and takes around 8 hours.

3. Navigate the Grand Union Canal to Cosgrove

On a weekend break from Weedon on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire, you can cruise to Cosgrove and back. This route travels through the countryside, passing the Narrow Boat pub at Stowehill Wharf and the Bakers Arms in the village of Bugbrooke. Soon after, you’ll enter the 1.74-mile long Blisworth Tunnel, emerging into the picturesque ‘canal village’ of Stoke Bruerne, home of the Canal & River Trust’s Canal Museum and a choice of canalside pubs. There are then seven locks to go through before reaching Thrupp Wharf and the Navigation Inn. At Cosgrove, boaters can moor up to explore the Ouse Valley Park, the site of Wolverton Medieval Village and the Barley Mow pub.

The journey to Cosgrove and back travels 36 miles, passes through 16 locks and takes around 16 hours.

4. Cruise through the Brecon Beacons to Llangynidr

Isolated from the main canal network, the beautiful Monmouth & Brecon Canal runs through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. It offers an escape to the country with incredible mountain views. On a weekend’s break from Goytre Wharf, near Abergavenny you can cruise to Llangynidr and back. The route goes through a series of small villages with historic pubs, including the Lion Inn at Govilon, deep in the Welsh countryside.

The journey to Llangynidr and back travels 32 miles and takes around 13 hours. There are no locks on this route.

5. Float across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in North Wales

On a weekend break from Chirk, you can cruise the 11-metre section of the Llangollen Canal designated a UNESCO World Heritage site to the Eisteddfod town of Llangollen, on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains. Along the way, you’ll cross the 38-metre high Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, experiencing stunning views of the Dee Valley below. When you reach Llangollen, you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and enjoy visiting the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants, as well as its Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls. Canalside pubs to enjoy along the way include the Aqueduct Inn at Froncysyllte and The Sun at Trevor.

The journey to Llangollen and back travels 14 miles and takes around 6 hours.

6. Boat through the Northamptonshire countryside to Hillmorton

From Stockton on the Grand Union Canal in Warwickshire, it takes just over 6 hours to cruise to the village Hillmorton. The route takes you past the village of Napton-on-the-Hill, where the village store sells products from the nearby Buffalo Farm, including buffalo burgers, sausages, meatballs, steaks and ice cream. Napton Village Stores also sells bakery and deli products, veg boxes, homemade meals, cider and homemade cakes. Continuing through the countryside, you’ll will next reach the village of Braunston, where there’s a choice of pubs including the canalside Admiral Nelson. Heading on north up the Oxford Canal, you’ll soon reach the village of Hillmorton, home of the Stag & Pheasant pub.

The journey to Hillmorton and back travels 30 miles, passes through 12 locks (6 each way) and takes around 12.5 hours.

7. Travel through the Leicestershire countryside to Stoke Golding

From Springwood Haven on the Coventry Canal, it takes around 6 hours to cruise to the historic village of Stoke Golding. At Marston Junction, you’ll transfer onto the lock-free Ashby Canal to continue travelling on through the Leicestershire countryside. The journey takes boaters through Sutton Cheney, home of the Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre & Country Park. Then on past Dadlington and the Dog & Hedgehog pub. Stoke Golding has one of the most beautiful churches in England and there’s a choice of pubs, including the White Swan. Before heading out, you can stock up on local produce at the Poplars Farm shop and café near Nuneaton, selling fruit, vegetables, honey, local cheese, eggs, poultry and jams.

The journey to Stoke Golding and back travels 27 miles and takes around 12 hours. There are no locks on this route.

8. Cruise through the Staffordshire countryside to Shebdon

From Brewood on the Shropshire Union Canal in Staffordshire, it takes just over 5 hours to reach the village of Shebdon, surrounded by beautiful countryside. The journey takes you through miles of scenic countryside and woodland, and a series of villages, including Wheaton Aston with its Hartley Inn and Gnosall with its Boat Inn. Canal features encountered along the way include Stretton Aqueduct, a lock at Wheaton Aston, Cowley Tunnel, Shelmore Embankment and Grub Street Cutting. At Shebdon, you can moor up to visit the canalside Wharf pub.

The journey to Shebdon and back travels 27 miles, through 2 locks and takes around 11 hours.

9. Navigate through Cannock Chase to Fradley

On a weekend break, from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal, you can cruise through the Staffordshire countryside to Fradley Junction and back. You’ll pass through Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty along the way. Before heading out, the Canalside Farm Shop at Great Haywood is perfect for stocking-up on local produce, including sausages, fruit, vegetables, free range eggs and baked products.

The journey to Fradley and back travels 25 miles, through 10 locks (5 each way) and takes around 12 hours.

10. Float along the Kennet & Avon Canal to Georgian Bath

From the base of the Caen Hill flight of locks at Devizes in Wiltshire, you can travel along the beautiful Kennet & Avon Canal to Bath and back. As well as 16 locks (8 each way), the journey takes boaters through a series of swing bridges. And across the magnificent Bath stone Avoncliff and Dundas aqueducts. Canalside pubs to enjoy along the way include the Barge Inn at Seend, the Canal Tavern at Bradford on Avon and the Cross Guns at Avoncliff. There are places to moor alongside Sydney Gardens, and from there it’s a 15-minute walk into Bath city centre, home to world famous attractions, including the Roman Baths and the Royal Crescent.

The journey to Bath and back travels 38 miles, passes through 16 locks (8 each way) and takes around 20 hours.

Canal boating on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire

Top 8 Easter 2026 narrowboat holidays

December 22, 2025/in News/by Contact

Choose from hundreds of Easter canal boat holiday destinations with Drifters

Britain’s beautiful inland waterways are a great place to visit at Easter, when the countryside is bursting with new life.

With over 40 canal boat hire locations, and over 3,000 miles of canals and rivers, there are hundreds of destinations to choose from.

Drifters 2026 Easter break prices start at £689 for a short break (3 or 4 nights) on a boat for up to 4 people, £1,030 for a week.

Here’s a guide to our top 8 Easter 2026 narrowboat holidays:

1. Cruise to Market Drayton, famous for its gingerbread

On a 4-night break from Brewood on the Shropshire Union Canal in Staffordshire you can cruise to the historic market town of Market Drayton and back. The journey through the Staffordshire countryside takes you through a series of villages with historic canalside pubs. These include the Boat Inn at Gnosall and the Junction Inn at Norbury. The route also passes Cadbury’s Wharf at Knighton, where chocolate crumb used to be transported to Bournville. And through Woodseaves Cutting, which is full of vegetation and wildlife. When you reach the Market Drayton visitors’ moorings, you can walk into the historic town, famous for its gingerbread men.

The journey to Market Drayton and back travels 42 miles, passes through 12 locks (6 each way) and takes around 19 hours.

2. Navigate to Hawkesbury Junction and the Greyhound Inn

On a weekend break from Braunston on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire you can cruise to Hawkesbury Junction and back. The route goes up the North Oxford Canal through Hillmorton with its Stag & Pheasant pub and Newbold with the canalside Barley Mow pub. The journey passes through the outskirts of Rugby and close to the village of Brinklow, home to castle ruins. At Hawkesbury Junction, where the North Oxford Canal meets the Coventry Canal, you can moor up to visit the popular Greyhound Inn.

The journey to Hawkesbury Junction and back travels 46 miles, passes through 8 locks (4 each way) and takes around 14 hours.

3. Cruise through the Bath Valley to Claverton and back

On a 4-night break from Devizes in Wiltshire, you can cruise along the beautiful Kennet & Avon Canal to Claverton and back. The journey passes a series of canalside pubs. These include the Barge Inn at Seend, the Canal Tavern at Bradford on Avon and the Cross Guns at Avoncliff. There are 8 locks to pass through each way and 2 magnificent Bath stone aqueducts to cruise across. Once at Claverton in the beautiful Bath Valley, you can moor up to visit the American Museum at Claverton House and Claverton Pumping Station.

The journey to Claverton and back travels 32 miles, passes through 16 locks (8 each way) and takes around 16 hours.

4. Boat to Birmingham & visit Cadbury World

On a short break from Alvechurch on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal near Bromsgrove, you can travel lock-free to Birmingham. Along the way, you can stop off at Bournville to find handmade Easter eggs in the World’s biggest Cadbury shop. With more canals than Venice, canal boats can travel right into the heart of Birmingham and find over-night moorings at Gas Street Basin. From there, it’s a short walk to Brindleyplace and city centre attractions, including Birmingham’s Science Museum Thinktank.

The journey to Birmingham and back travels 22 miles and takes around 10 hours. There are no locks to go through.

5. Join the Easter Gathering at the National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port

Over the Easter Weekend (3-6 April 2026), the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port in Cheshire will celebrate the start of the summer boating season. It will also be the Museum’s 50th anniversary. There will be a large boat gathering, live music, children’s activities and guided tours. The Museum was recently transformed into 19th century graving docks in Dublin for Stephen Knight’s spectacular House of Guinness series on Netflix. From Bunbury on the Shropshire Union Canal near Tarporley in Cheshire, it’s a 10-hour journey to Ellesmere Port, perfect for a week away. The route takes you through the ancient City of Chester.

The journey to Ellesmere Port and back travels 42 miles, passes through 24 locks and takes around 20 hours.

6. Cruise through the Staffordshire countryside and visit Drayton Manor Theme Park

On a week-long holiday from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal in Staffordshire, you can cruise to moorings close to Drayton Manor Theme Park. Along the way, you’ll pass Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Fradley Nature Reserve. There are also a series of villages with canalside pubs, including the Crown at Handsacre. There are visitor moorings between Tolson’s Footbridge and Coleshill Road Bridge on the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal. From there it’s a short walk to Drayton Manor Park.

The journey there and back travels 48 miles, passes through 10 locks (5 each way) and takes around 22 hours.

7. Star gaze in the Brecon Beacons

The beautiful Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal runs through Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, designated an International Dark-Sky Reserve. This peaceful waterway has very few locks, offers canal boat holiday-makers incredible mountain views, a series of historic village pubs to visit and on clear nights, views of the Milky Way. On a weekend break from Goytre Wharf, near Abergavenny, boaters can cruise lock-free to Llangynidr and back. The journey takes boaters past the Lion Inn at Govilon and the Bridge End Inn at Llangattock.

The journey to Llangynidr and back travels 32 miles and takes around 13 hours.

8. Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’ to Llangollen

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, you can reach the Eisteddfod town of Llangollen on a short break. You’ll travel across the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct along the way. Standing at 38 metres high above the Dee Valley, this incredible 300-metre long structure consists of a cast iron trough supported by 18 enormous pillars and 19 elegant arches. When you reach Llangollen you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and enjoy visiting the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants. You can also take a journey along the Steam Railway and see the Horseshoe Falls.

The journey to Llangollen and back travels 14 miles and takes around 7 hours. There are no locks, but there are two aqueducts and two tunnels.