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Head to one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways

May 20, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Cruise to one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways

The list of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’ was compiled over 70 years ago by Robert Aickman. He was the co-founder of the Inland Waterways Association (IWA). These amazing structures make great canal boat holiday destinations. If you’d like to head to one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways on your next narrow boat holiday, here’s a guide to our nearest bases:

1. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

Carrying the Llangollen Canal 38 metres high above the River Dee, the UNESCO World Heritage Status Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is the highest and longest aqueduct in Britain. It was built between 1795 and 1805. It has 18 magnificent stone piers, supporting a 307-metre long trough for the canal to run through. Our base at Trevor is next to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. You can also reach the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on a short break from Chirk and Blackwater Meadow.

2. The Anderton Boat Lift

Also known as ‘The Cathedral of the Canals’, this extraordinary structure raises (or lowers) boats 15 metres from the River Weaver to the Trent & Mersey Canal. It was designed by Edwin Clark and opened in 1875. The Anderton Boat Lift consists of two caissons, each large enough to take a barge or pair of narrowboats. The lift is currently closed, but you can go to the Anderton Boat Lift visitor centre to find out more about this fascinating structure and plans to repair it. We have a narrowboat hire base at Anderton Marina next to the Lift.

3. The Caen Hill Flight

With 16 of its 29 locks falling in a straight line, the Caen Hill flight of locks at Devizes is visually the most impressive in the country. The locks were the final link in the Kennet & Avon Canal’s construction, opening in 1810. Sadly by 1950 they had become derelict, but after a major restoration effort, they were reopened HM The Queen in 1990. Our canal boat hire base at Devizes is at the base of the flight. You can also reach the bottom of the Caen Hill flight on a short break from Hilperton and Bradford on Avon.

4. The Bingley Five-Rise Locks

This spectacular staircase of locks on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal was completed in 1774. The locks raise (or lower) boats 18 metres in 5 cavernous chambers. They open directly from one to another, with the top gate of one forming the bottom gate of the next. You can head to this wonder of the waterways from our base at Silsden, just 6 miles away. It takes around 3.5 hours to head to this wonder of the waterways from Silsden.

5. The Standedge Tunnel

The incredible Standedge Tunnel runs for over 3 miles beneath the Pennines. This incredible feat of engineering is the longest, highest and deepest tunnel on the canal system. Cutting through solid rock, it took the navvies 16 years to build. It opened in 1811, but sadly in the 20th century, the Huddersfield Canal fell into disrepair, becoming un-navigable by 1948. After a long restoration programme, both the canal and tunnel were reopened in 2001. Today narrow boat holiday-makers need to book their passage through with a Canal & River Trust chaperone. There’s also a trip boat operating from the Marsden end. Our nearest canal boat rental base is 20 miles and 65 locks away at Sowerby Bridge. The journey to Standedge from Sowerby Bridge takes around 21 hours (3 days).

6. Barton Swing Aqueduct

The 100-metre long Barton Swing Aqueduct was built in 1761 by James Brindley to take the Bridgewater Canal across the River Irwell. It was considered a marvel at the time of its opening. In 1863 the Manchester Ship Canal company decided to use the course of the Irwell at Barton as part of its navigation channel. So Brindley’s Aqueduct was replaced by the Barton Swing Aqueduct. The 1,450 tonne aqueduct swings open, full of water, to allow the passage of ships along the Manchester Ship Canal. Our nearest base is at Acton Bridge, on the Trent & Mersey Canal in Cheshire. From there, it takes around 13 hours, travelling 35 miles and passing through 2 locks, to reach the Barton Swing Aqueduct. NB The Bridgewater Canal is currently closed between Agden Bridge No. 26 and Dunham Town Bridge No. 27 due to a breach.

7. The Burnley Embankment

The mile-long Burnley Embankment carries the Leeds & Liverpool Canal over 18 metres high across part of the town. It’s also known as ‘The Straight Mile’. It offers boaters breath-taking panoramic views of the Calder Valley and surrounding countryside. The Burnley Embankment spans the Calder Valley. Though costly and difficult to build, it avoided the need for a series of locks. Designed by Robert Whitworth, the embankment was built between 1796 and 1801. It involved the mammoth task of transporting (by horse and cart) around half a million tons of earth from the nearby canal cutting at Whittlefield and tunnel at Gannow. Our narrowboat hire base at Silsden is 30 miles, 22 locks and 18 hours away from Burnley.

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.

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.

Chirk Castle close to the Llangollen Canal in Wales

Castles to visit on a narrowboat holiday

August 4, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

There are many castles close to canals and rivers in England and Wales

From prison cells and dungeon tours, to ramparts and banqueting halls, there are some great castles to visit on a narrowboat holiday.

1. Explore the 18th century prison cells at Oxford Castle & Prison

Cruising from our base at Lower Heyford on the Oxford Canal, it’s a tranquil 8-hour cruise to moorings at Hythe Bridge, close to Oxford Castle. The journey to Oxford and back travels 29 miles and passes through 20 locks (10 each way). Oxford Castle was founded by the Norman baron Robert D’Oilly the elder in 1071, but most of the fortress was destroyed in the English Civil War. By the 18th century, the remaining buildings had become Oxford’s local prison. Today, as well as exploring the castle’s tower, crypt and mound, you can take a guided tour of the old prison.

2. See the Changing of the Guard at Windsor Castle

You can visit Windsor Castle on a narrowboat holiday departing from Aldermaston on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Berkshire. It takes 2 days to reach Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. The journey travels 39 miles and passes through 22 locks. With 1,000 years of Royal history to discover, including Charles II’s magnificent State Apartments, Windsor Castle is packed with treasures from the Royal Collection. The Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place on Thursdays and Saturdays at 11am, is a colour spectacle of British pageantry.

3. Climb the ramparts at Warwick Castle

From Stockton on the Grand Union Canal in Warwickshire, it’s a 7-hour journey, passing through 20 locks, to Warwick Castle on the banks of the River Avon. This is an amazing castle to visit on a narrowboat holiday! Dating back to William the Conqueror, Warwick Castle has ramparts to climb, the spooky Castle Dungeon tour to experience and the Great Hall and Staterooms to explore. You’ll also find the sights, sounds and smells of the medieval period to witness in the Kingmaker exhibition. And there are soaring birds of prey displays to watch, landscaped gardens wonder through and regular special live action performances.

4. Find out about the siege at Skipton Castle

Cruising from Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Yorkshire, it takes around 3.5 hours to reach Skipton Castle. This 900-year old fortress is one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England. And it’s very close to the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, so it’s a great castle to visit on a narrowboat holiday. Skipton Castle withstood a 3-year siege during the English Civil War. Today, visitors can climb from the depths of the Dungeon up to the top of the Watch Tower, and explore the magnificent Banqueting Hall, Kitchen, Bedchamber and Privy in between.

5. Discover murder holes at Chirk Castle

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, it takes just 40 minutes to cruise to Chirk Bank visitor moorings. From there, it takes around 30 minutes to walk up to Chirk Castle. Owned by the National Trust, Chirk Castle is one of several medieval marcher fortresses built on the Welsh-English border. Started in 1295, Chirk Castle had the most up-to-date defences of the time. These include round ‘drum’ towers that allowed archers a wide firing field, and created a ‘killing zone’ where the fields of fire overlapped. Today, you can explore the Castle’s lavishly furnished rooms and Adam Tower, complete with two-level dungeons, medieval toilets and murder holes. There’s also 480 acres of parkland with walking trails to enjoy, and glorious gardens to stroll through.

Top 10 aqueducts to glide across on a narrowboat holiday

Top 10 aqueducts to cruise across on a narrowboat holiday

July 10, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Britain’s 3,000-mile canal network is made up of thousands of historic structures, including dozens of aqueducts.

Aqueducts were originally invented by the Romans. The idea of a ‘canal in the sky’ was initially ridiculed by the canal builders. They were concerned about the amount of masonry required to support the weight of the water above.

However, the engineers found a way and built dozens of canal aqueducts across the canal network.

They have survived to become some of the most iconic sights on our waterways.

To help plan your next adventure afloat, we’ve listed the top 10 aqueducts to glide across on a narrowboat holiday:

1. The Stream in the Sky in North Wales

Standing 38 metres high above the Dee Valley, the awesome Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales has UNESCO World Heritage Status. Designed by Thomas Telford, its 305-metre long cast iron trough in which narrowboats float, is supported by 19 enormous hollow pillars. Ox blood was added to the lime mortar used to bind the masonry together. It was believed the blood of a strong animal would help strengthen the structure. You can reach this aqueduct from our hire boat yards at Trevor, Chirk, Blackwater Meadow, Whitchurch, Wrenbury and Whixall.

2. Avoncliff Aqueduct in Wiltshire

Designed by canal engineer John Rennie, the beautiful Bath stone Avoncliff Aqueduct carries the Kennet & Avon Canal across the Avon Valley near Bath. It is over 100 metres long and 18 metres wide. You can reach this aqueduct on a canal boat holiday from our bases at Bath, Monkton Coombe, Bradford on Avon, Hilperton and Devizes.

3. Chirk Aqueduct on the Welsh border

Also part of the Llangollen Canal World Heritage site, the striking Chirk Aqueduct was completed in 1801. It was designed by William Jessop and Thomas Telford. It is 220 metres long and carries the Llangollen Canal 21 metres high above the River Ceiriog, using 10 circular masonry arches. You can easily reach the Chirk Aqueduct from our bases at Trevor, Chirk, Blackwater Meadow, Whitchurch and Whixall.

4. The Iron Trunk Aqueduct in Buckinghamshire

This magnificent engineering structure was the world’s first wide canal cast iron trough aqueduct. It takes the Grand Union Canal 12 metres high across the River Great Ouse, close to the village of Cosgrove. It was built in 1811 by canal engineer Benjamin Beavan, and is made up of two cast iron trough spans, with a single masonry pier. Our nearest narrowboat hire base is a five hour cruise away at Gayton.

5. Dundas Aqueduct in Somerset

Another magnificent Bath stone aqueduct designed by John Rennie, this structure on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Bath was completed in 1810. It’s designated a Scheduled Ancient Monument and connects the Kennet & Avon Canal to the Somerset Coal Canal. You can easily be reach Dundas Aqueduct on a canal boat holiday from our bases at Bath, Monkton Coombe, Bradford on Avon, Hilperton and Devizes.

6. Edstone Aqueduct in Warwickshire

Carrying the Stratford Canal across three railway tracks, a minor road, a stream and a field, this 146 metre long structure is the longest cast iron aqueduct in England. Completed in 1816, it was amongst the earliest prefabricated structures, made up of 35 separate sections bolted together. Our nearest canal boat hire base is just under an hour away at Wootton Wawen.

7. The Lune Aqueduct in Lancashire

This Grade I listed iconic structure carries the Lancaster Canal 16 metres high above the River Lune. It was designed by John Rennie and has five 21 metre high semi-circular arches. The nearest Drifters’ base is a week’s cruise away at Acton Bridge on the River Weaver.

8. Nantwich Aqueduct in Cheshire

The Nantwich Aqueduct offers canal boat holiday-makers panoramic views across the historic market town of Nantwich. This Grade II* listed historic structure carries the Shropshire Union Canal over the A534 Chester Road. It was designed by the famous canal engineer Thomas Telford and completed 1826. Our nearest bases are at Nantwich and Bunbury.

9. Barton Swing Aqueduct in Greater Manchester

This Grade II* listed aqueduct carries the Bridgewater Canal across the Manchester Ship Canal. It opened in 1893 and was the first and only swing aqueduct in the world. Weighing 1,450 tonnes, the 100-metre long aqueduct swings open, full of water, to allow the passage of ships along the Manchester Ship Canal. Our nearest base is a nine-hour cruise away at Acton Bridge.

10. Avon Aqueduct in Scotland

At 247 metres long, the impressive Avon Aqueduct in Scotland is the second longest aqueduct in Britain. It carries the Union Canal 29.5 metres high above the River Avon near Linlithgow. Designed by Hugh Baird, with advice from Thomas Telford, the aqueduct was constructed between 1819 and 1821. Our nearest canal boat hire base is around three cruising hours away at Falkirk.

To find out more about visiting the canals in England and Wales, go to https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/

Interior of Chirk Tunnel on a narrowboat holiday

Top tunnels to navigate on a canal boat holiday

July 10, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

There are over 50 canal tunnels, ranging in length from 23 metres to over 3 miles

Drifters has published a guide to the top tunnels to navigate on a canal boat holiday.

The construction of tunnels was one of the most difficult tasks faced by the early canal engineers. The dangerous and difficult work led to the death of many navvies, including 14 when a section of the Blisworth Tunnel collapsed in 1896.

We’ve published a guide to the top tunnels to navigate on a canal boat holiday in England and Wales:

The Standedge Tunnel (5,210 metres/5,698 yards)

Tunnelling for 3.24 miles beneath the Pennines, this incredible feat of 18th and 19th century engineering is the longest, highest and deepest tunnel on the canal system. Cutting through solid rock, it took the navvies 16 years to build and opened in 1811. In the 20th century, the Huddersfield Canal fell into disrepair, becoming un-navigable by 1948, but after a long restoration programme, both the canal and tunnel were reopened in 2001. It takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes to navigate through Standedge Tunnel. Narrowboat holiday-makers need to book their passage though with a Canal & River Trust chaperone. Our nearest base is at Sowerby Bridge, 20 miles and 65 locks away. The journey to Standedge takes around 21 hours (3 days).

Blisworth Tunnel (2,794 metres/3,056 yards)

At 1.74 miles long, Blisworth Tunnel on the Grand Union Canal at Stoke Bruerne in Northamptonshire is the second longest navigable tunnel on the canal system. Construction began in 1793, and it was opened in 1805. It’s wide enough to accommodate two narrowboats, so it’s not necessary to book a passage through it. From Gayton it takes around 38 minutes to reach the northern entrance of the Blisworth Tunnel.

Netherton Tunnel (2,768 metres/3,027 yards)

Tunnelling for 1.72 miles, Netherton Tunnel is on the Birmingham Canal Navigations Netherton Branch in Birmingham. It was the last tunnel constructed during the canal age, and was built with towpaths on both sides. From Alvechurch, it takes around 8 hours to reach Netherton Tunnel.

Harecastle Tunnel (2,676 metres/2,926 yards)

Harecastle Tunnel on the Trent & Mersey Canal is 1.65 miles long and it takes around 30 minutes to navigate through. Designed by Thomas Telford, it was completed in 1827. Passage through the tunnel is in a single direction at a time, because only one of the two original Harecastle Tunnels is in operation. Access is controlled by the Canal & River Trust’s Tunnel keeper team, allowing groups of boats to pass through in convoy, before reversing the flow of traffic. Our nearest base is at Stoke on Trent. From there it takes around 1.5 hours to reach the southern entrance of Harecastle Tunnel.

Wast Hills Tunnel (2,493 metres/2,726 yards)

At 1.55 miles long, it takes around 37 minutes to navigate through Wast Hills Tunnel, on the Worcestershire & Birmingham Canal. Designed by Thomas Cartwright and completed in 1796, Wast Hills is wide enough to accommodate two narrowboats, so it’s not necessary to book a passage through it. From Alvechurch it takes about 1.5 hours to cruise to the southern entrance of Wast Hills Tunnel.

Braunston Tunnel (1,867 metres/2,042 yards)

Braunston Tunnel on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire is 1.17 miles long and was completed in 1796. It takes around 20 minutes to navigate and it’s wide enough to accommodate passing narrowboats, so there’s no need to book a passage. Our Braunston base is 1.5 hours away.

Chirk Tunnel (421 metres/460 yards)

Chirk Tunnel on the Llangollen Canal in Wales is one of the longest tunnels on the waterways system to have a towpath running through it. This tunnel is next to the magnficent Chirk Aqueduct, which carries the canal across the English/Welsh border. Chirk Tunnel’s north portal is just over a mile from our base at Chirk Marina.

Step off the grid for a mindfulness break

June 6, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Step off the grid for a mindfulness break on Britain’s inland waterways

Travelling at just 4 miles per hour on a canal boat is the chance to step off the grid for a mindfulness break.

Research by Canal & River Trust, the charity that cares for the nation’s 2,000 miles of canals and rivers, shows spending time by the waterways can lower levels of anxiety and make you happier*.

Waterways are described as ‘great places to relax and de-stress’ and canal boat holidays are often said to be ‘the fastest way to slow down’.

Britain’s canals and rivers are an important place for biodiversity, with over 1,000 wildlife conservation sites. Getting close to nature is widely recognised to benefit our mental and physical health and wellbeing.

Here are some insights into the relaxing effect of a narrowboat holiday, described by journalists who have enjoyed the experience:

Step back in time to a slower era

Paul Miles lives on a boat and says, ‘Holidaying on the inland waterways is to step back in time to a slower era. Grooves on bridges worn by ropes are a visible reminder of the days when life proceeded at the walking pace of a horse, 4mph, still the speed limit today.’

The Telegraph, ‘Britain’s best and most underrated canals to explore this summer‘, 8 May 2025

A slow boat to happiness in Wiltshire

Annabel Abbs reviewed her family holiday on the Kennet & Avon Canal in the Guardian, and said ‘the gentle, soothing monotony of a canal had taken away all desire to show and share on social media’ and everyone’s ‘phones showed an average 70% drop in useage.

The Guardian online, ‘A slow boat to happiness: our family holiday on Wiltshire’s Kennet & Avon Canal‘, 18 May 2025

Off grid on the Grand Union Canal in Warwickshire

Angela Riches of H&N Magazine holidayed on the Grand Union Canal and said, ‘It’s been a long time since we were so completely off grid but this slow pace of life gave us a complete reset.’

H&N Magazine, ‘Heaven is going totally off grid on a canal barge‘, 22 May 2025

The perfect antidote in Shropshire

Dan Sanderson described his family holiday on the Shropshire Union Canal as ‘the perfect antidote to the stresses of modern city life’ and said ‘chugging along at an average speed of just 2mph…time and distance become an obscure concept and you are left with little option than to sit back and enjoy the view’.

The Mailonline, ‘Ready, steady…slow!’, 8 July 2023

A Wiltshire retreat

Paul Miles, while on the Kennet & Avon Canal, explained: “Life in the slow lane is the norm on the canals. It heightens my sense of observation.’

The Telegraph, ‘I’ve been in happy self-isolation for the last 10 years’, 20 March 2020

Northamptonshire slow zone

Fiona Whitty enjoyed a narrowboat holiday on the Grand Union Canal and said: “As an antidote to fast living, travel is all about going slow nowadays – and you don’t get much slower than a canal boat with a speed of 4mph.”

Sunday Mirror, ‘Slow-go zone’, 27 March 2022

A Shropshire escape

In his review of a Drifters’ canal boat holiday on the Shropshire Union Canal, Dixe Wills says: “The sedateness of our progress up to Shropshire, coupled with an almost complete absence of intrusions from the modern world, created a bubble that we were reluctant to burst.”

The Guardian, ‘The ripple effect: a leisurely boating break in Shropshire’, 29 July 2020

Putting the brakes on in Leicestershire

Gareth Butterfield reviewed a holiday on the Ashby Canal saying: “there’s something incredibly cathartic about slowing yourself down to canal pace…a week at walking pace is just the tonic for people who need to put the brakes on from time to time.”

Manchester Evening News, ‘I raise eyebrows taking a big lizard on a narrowboat trip along the Ashby canal’, 17 April 2022

Meandering into North Wales

Mary Novakovich, who took a narrowboat holiday on the Llangollen Canal, setting out from Chirk, said “Meandering along at a languid 3mph – slower than my walking pace – we had plenty of time to absorb our surroundings as we spotted herons and steered under pretty arched bridges.”

The Independent, ‘Knot Too Shabby’, 16 May 2021

A break from modern life in Yorkshire

Jaymi McCann enjoyed a holiday on the Leeds & Liverpool and said: “The canal remains unchanged over its two centuries but its purpose has been transformed: coal barges have given way to leisure boaters. Its engineers could have little envisaged its current use but the languid pace is what makes it such a break from modern life.”

Sunday Express, ‘A Slow Boat To Yorkshire’ 22 May 2016

Bucolic scenes in Warwickshire

Lyn Hughes describes her journey along the Grand Union Canal from Napton, observing “bucolic scenes of gently rolling farmland, dotted with grazing cows and sheep. The bank was thick with overhanging willows, bulrushes, rosebay willowherb and purple loosestrife. Dragonflies buzzed past, and clouds of butterflies danced over the wildflowers.”

Wanderlust, ‘Tales from the Riverbank’, November 2020

A balming power

Richard Morrison says: “I do believe that today the canals have a mysterious, balming power that is without equal in Britain – not just because they trundle holidaymakers through glorious landscapes at a maximum of 4mph, but also because they stealthily, almost secretly, carry the peace of rural England into the heart of frenetic cities.”

The Times, ‘Canals – a calming, beautiful antidote to modern life’, 5 February 2007

*’Assessing the wellbeing impacts of waterways usage in England and Wales’, 2018

Top of the Locks 2025

May 20, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

There are over 1,800 locks on Britain’s canal network

Our Top of the Locks 2025 guide lists the top 7 flights of locks on canals in England and Wales.

Locks enable canal boats to travel up and down hills. There’s no mystery to using locks – just a series of step-by-step tasks.

A lock is simply a chamber with gates at either end. By emptying or filling the chamber with water, boats can move up or down onto a new section of waterway.

There are many different kinds of locks, but they all on work on a similar principle.

With the lock gates closed, boaters should open the sluices (paddles) to let the water in or out. When the water level under the boat is the same as the level it’s moving to, the boat can move in or out of the lock.

Some locks are operated by boaters, others by lock keepers.

Tuition is included in all our canal boat holiday packages.

During your handover procedure, our boat yard staff will usually be able to take you through your first lock.

To celebrate these marvels of canal engineering, we’ve put together a guide to the Top 7 lock flight destinations for 2024 narrow boat holidays:

1. Caen Hill on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Wiltshire

Caen Hill at Devizes in Wiltshire is one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’ and a scheduled monument. With 29 locks spread out over two miles, raising the canal by 72 metres, it takes around six hours to passage through. The 16-lock section clustered together up the hill is truly a magnificent site, and one of the most iconic on the waterway network. Our Devizes narrowboat hire base is at the base of the Flight at Foxhangers Marina.

2. Hatton on the Grand Union Canal in Warwickshire

The Hatton Flight was nicknamed ‘The Stairway to Heaven’ by the boaters who once carried cargos on the canals. This impressive flight of 21 locks raises boats up 45 metres over two miles, and takes around four-and-a-half hours to travel through. Just below the Top lock, you’ll find the Hatton Locks Café. Our nearest canal boat hire base is eight cruising hours away at Stockton. The journey travels 11 miles and passes through 22 locks.

3. Wigan on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in Lancashire

This epic flight of 21 locks is said to be one of the most fearsome on the waterways. Descending 70 metres in less than two miles, it takes around five hours to pass through all the locks. The flight travels through New Springs, a suburb of Wigan which was once an industrial hub with collieries and ironworks lining the canal. Today it’s a post-industrial landscape of waste ground, modern housing and terraced streets. From our Barnoldswick base, it takes around 19 cruising hours to reach Wigan Top Lock Junction, travelling 48 miles and passing through 20 locks.

4. Tardebigge on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal in Worcestershire

With 30 locks spread out over two-and-a-quarter miles, this awesome flight of locks is the longest on the inland waterways system. In total, the locks raise and lower boats 67 metres and it takes around five-and-a-half hours to travel through them. Our nearest canal boat hire base is an hour’s cruise away at Alvechurch.

5. Bingley Five Rise on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Yorkshire

Another one of the ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’, this spectacular staircase of five locks is near Bradford. It raises (or lowers) boats 18 metres in five cavernous chambers. The locks open directly from one to another, with the top gate of one forming the bottom of the next. It takes around one-and-a-half hours to work through. The size of the chambers can be intimidating even for experienced boaters, but friendly lock-keepers are on hand to help. You can reach the Bingley Five Rise Locks on a short break from Silsden.

6. Foxton on the Leicester Line of the Grand Union Canal in Leicestershire

Surrounded by stunning views of the Leicestershire countryside, this set of 10 locks raises boats up 23 metres in just a quarter-of-a-mile. Foxton Locks is the longest set of staircase locks in the UK, and is a Grade II Listed structure. In staircases, the locks open directly one from another so that the top gate of one forms the bottom of the next. It takes around 45 minutes to pass through. There are lock keepers on hand to help. They offer key advice when it comes to opening the paddles: “Red before white, you’ll be alright. White before red, you’ll be dead.” Drifters’ nearest narrowboat boat hire base is around 13 cruising hours away at Braunston. The journey to Foxton Top Staircase travels 27 miles and passes through 13 locks.

7. Marple on the Peak Forest Canal in Cheshire

One of the steepest flights on the system, the 16 locks at Marple raise boats by 64 metres over just one mile. The locks are built of local stone and are mostly tree-lined, giving the canal a lovely secluded feeling. The Peak Forest Canals is said to be one of Britain’s most scenic waterways, running through beautiful countryside on the edge of the Peak District National Park. From Stoke on Trent it takes around 19 hours to reach Marple Bottom Lock. The journey there travels 32 miles and passes through 14 locks.

Top 8 waterside museums to visit on a canal boat holiday

Top 8 museums to visit on a canal boat holiday

May 9, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Britain’s canal network is home to exciting waterside museums

We’ve published a guide to the top 8 museums to visit on a canal boat holiday.

The fascinating history of Britain’s 3,000-mile network of navigable canals and rivers and our nation’s industrial past are brought to life through our waterside museums.

1. National Waterways Museum, Ellesmere Port

On the banks of the Mersey and the Manchester Ship Canal, the National Waterways Museum Ellesmere Port brings together a unique fleet of historic boats. There are also docks, warehouses, forge, stables and workers cottages to explore. And a rich collection of archives telling the story of Britain’s canals. From Bunbury, it takes around 18 hours to cruise to Ellesmere Port and back. The journey takes you through the 12 locks each way, and the ancient City of Chester.

2. Birmingham Black Country Living Museum

Famous as a filming location for The Peaky Blinders, this 26-acre open air museum on the Birmingham Canal Navigations, gives visitors an insight into life in one of the world’s most heavily industrialised landscapes. From our narrowboat hire base on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Alvechurch, it takes around eight hours to cruise to the Birmingham Black Country Museum. You’ll pass through three locks each way.

3. Leeds Industrial Museum

Next to the Leeds & Liverpool Canal at Canal Road, the Leeds Industrial Museum explores the inventions that shaped Leeds. From Scootacars to steam engines, and space food to Spirograph. It takes around 16 hours to cruise to the Leeds Industrial Museum from our hire base at Silsden. The journey there and back passes through 22 locks, including the famous Bingley Five Rise Locks.

4. Hepworth Wakefield Museum

Located on the banks of the Calder & Hebble Navigation, the Hepworth Wakefield showcases the extraordinary work by the British sculptor Barbara Hepworth. There are also works on display by Henry Moore, Antony Gormley, David Hockney, Bridget Riley and Anthony Caro. From Sowerby Bridge it takes around 22 hours to reach the Hepworth Wakefield Museum, passing through 26 locks each way.

5. Warwick Castle

Over 1,000 years of history can be explored at Warwick Castle on the banks of the River Avon. This medieval wonder offers a fantastic day out, with birds of prey displays, Horrible Histories Maze, live shows, Princess Tower, Kingmaker exhibition and ramparts to climb. From Stockton on the Grand Union Canal it takes around eight hours to reach Warwick. The journey travels 11 miles and passes through 22 locks.

6. Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne

On the banks of the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire, this quirky little museum tells the story of Britain’s canals through archive films, models and artefacts. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach the Canal Museum from our canal boat hire rental at Gayton. The route takes boaters through the Blisworth Tunnel, which at 3,076 yards long is the third longest on the canal network and takes 30 minutes to cruise through.

7. Anderton Boat Lift

Built 150 years ago, the Anderton Boat Lift connects the River Weaver and the Trent & Mersey Canal. The lift’s museum tells the story of this incredible Victorian structure, nicknamed ‘The Cathedral of the Canals’ and considered to be one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways. It was the world’s first major commerical boat lift and still transports around 3,000 boats a year. We have a canal boat hire base at Anderton and nearby at Acton Bridge.

8. World of Wedgewood

The award-winning World of Wedgewood Museum is next to the Trent & Mersey Canal near Stoke-on-Trent. As well as galleries featuring the V&A Wedgewood Collection, there are hands-on Creative Studios, the Wedgewood Factory and Tea Room to experience. From our narrowboat hire base at Stoke-on-Trent, it takes around three hours to reach moorings close to the World of Wedgewood. The journey takes you through five locks.

Visit a bluebell wood on a canal boat holiday

Bluebell woods to see on a canal boat holiday

January 14, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Canals meander through some of Britain’s best loved countryside with bluebell woods to explore

The UK is home to almost half the world’s bluebells, and they are one of the nation’s favourite wildflowers. Native bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) are an ancient woodland indicator.

The Woodland Trust says, “most flowering usually happens in April, so this is the best time to see that iconic carpet of blue.”

To celebrate the bluebell woods to see on a canal boat holiday, we’ve listed the best bluebell woods near canals and rivers in England and Wales:

1. Copley Woods on the Calder & Hebble in West Yorkshire

The bluebells are stunning in the woods alongside the Calder & Hebble Navigation at Copley. From our narrowboat hire base at Sowerby Bridge, it takes just under 30 minutes by boat to reach Copley.

2. Coed Cefn at Crickhowell on the Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal

This ancient woodland managed by the Woodland Trust has an iron age hill fort at its centre. There’s a circular walk perfect for enjoying fantastic displays of bluebells. From our base at Goytre in South Wales, it takes around five hours to reach Llangattock Wharf. From there it’s a two-mile walk to Coed Cefn.

3. Chirk Castle Woods, close to the Llangollen Canal in Wrexham

Owned by the National Trust, the grounds of Chirk Castle include 480 acres of woodland and parkland. There are carpets of bluebells, veteran trees and a section of the historic Offa’s Dyke trail to discover. Setting out from our Chirk base on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, it takes just 40 minutes to cruise to visitor moorings at Chirk Bank. From there, it’s a 30-minute walk up to Chirk Castle to explore bluebell woods on a canal boat holiday.

4. Cliveden on the River Thames in Berkshire

Set high above the River Thames near Maidenhead, Cliveden has 375 acres of glorious gardens and woodlands to explore. These include a magnificent carpet of bluebells alongside the beautiful tree-lined Green Drive. From our canal boat hire base at Aldermaston, it’s a 14 hour journey to Cliveden Reach.

5. Packwood House near the Stratford Canal in Warwickshire

The National Trust’s magnificent Packwood House has 150 acres of parkland to explore, including an area of ancient woodland with bluebells. From our base at Alvechurch, it takes around six hours to cruise to moorings on the Stratford Canal at Lapworth, close to Packwood House.

6. Savernake Forest on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Wiltshire

There are over 4,500 acres of woodlands to explore at Savernake Forest, and it’s a bluebell paradise in spring. The Kennet & Avon Canal runs alongside the Savernake Forest, with bluebell woods to see on a canal boat holiday. From our Devizes base, it takes around 10 hours to reach the village of Wootton Rivers. This is a great starting point for a variety of walks around the Forest.

7. Skipton Castle Woods on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Yorkshire

The woods at Skipton Castle Woods are a rare ancient woodland habitat cared for by the Woodland Trust. These woods close to the Leeds & Liverpool Canal are said to be one of the best places to spot bluebells in Yorkshire. From our base at Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Yorkshire, it takes just around four cruising hours to reach Skipton.

Ways to reduce plastic waste on your canal boat holiday

Ways to reduce plastic waste on your narrowboat holiday

October 22, 2024/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Plastic in our oceans and waterways is damaging our wildlife

Programmes like Blue Planet II have highlighted the damage plastic waste is doing to wildlife in our oceans.

Sadly our beautiful inland waterways are also affected by plastic waste, posing a threat to our native biodiversity. And, as a staggering 80 per cent of marine debris comes from inland sources, to ocean life as well.

To help combat the blight of plastic pollution in our canals and rivers, we’ve put together a list of ways to reduce the plastic waste generated on your narrowboat holiday:

1. Don’t use products with microbeads

Harmful microplastics are in some consumer products like face wash and toothpaste. The shower water you use on your canal boat holiday drains straight out into the canal. Avoid items with ‘polypropylene’ or ‘polyethylene’ on the ingredients list and go for natural biodegradable alternatives.

2. Use eco-friendly cleaning products

Make sure your washing up liquid and other cleaning products are also eco-friendly.

3. Bring a refillable thermos and reusable plastic bottles

So if you stop off to buy a coffee somewhere on your narrowboat holiday you won’t need a disposable cup and you won’t have to buy bottled water. You can use boiled water from the boat’s tank to make a cup of tea or coffee, and we suggest bringing one large bottle or canteen to top up at water points for drinking water.

4. Bring your own shopping bags

Remember to pack your re-useable bags every time you shop and avoid products with excess packaging.

5. Make use of recycling facilities

The Canal & River Trust offers recycling points for boaters along the canal network.

6. Bag all rubbish

Make sure the bags are tied securely so they don’t spill open. Only dispose of your bagged domestic rubbish inside bins marked domestic waste, and don’t forget to close the lid. If the bins are full, keep your rubbish securely on board until the next available waste disposal point.

7. Help clean up

Take part in the Canal & River Trust’s Plastics Challenge campaign. You can pledge to pick up and safely dispose of at least one piece of canalside litter a day while on your narrowboat holiday. For more information, go to https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/news-and-views/features/plastic-and-litter-in-our-canals

Spend Christmas or New Year on a narrow boat

October 18, 2024/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Drifters offers Christmas and New Year holidays from six narrow boat hire bases

You can spend Christmas or New Year on a narrow boat with the choice of six departure points.

All our boats have central heating and hot water, and some of our boats also come with multi-fuel stoves.

Prices start at £635 for a short break (three or four nights) on a boat for up to four people. £875 for a week.

Please note, some routes are affected at times by the Canal & River Trust’s winter maintenance programme.

1. Travel along the Stratford Canal to Stratford upon Avon

From Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal at Wootton Wawen in Warwickshire, it’s a six-hour cruise to Stratford-upon-Avon. The journey takes you through the Warwickshire countryside, passing through 17 locks along the way. Christmas in Stratford-upon-Avon is magical with Christmas lights adorning ancient streets, picturesque pubs and restaurants with festive decorations, and the Stratford Town Walk which runs all year round, including Christmas Day.

2. Cruise the Trent & Mersey Canal to Fradley Junction

Heading south from our base at Great Haywood, boaters can reach Fradley Junction in around five hours. The journey passes through five locks and 12 miles of Staffordshire countryside, including the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. At Fradley you’ll find a choice of places to eat, including The Swan pub, and woodland walks around Fradley Pool Nature Reserve.

3. Boat along the Llangollen Canal to Ellesmere

From our base at Whixall in Shropshire, it takes around four hours to reach the historic town of Ellesmere. The journey travels through the Shropshire Lake District, past Whixall Moss Nature Reserve, Lyneal Moss and Colemere Country Park. The pretty town of Ellesmere has a great choice of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, woodland walks around the Mere, sculpture trail, cycle paths and hire, a castle and Victorian gardens.

4. Navigate the Shropshire Union Canal to Chester

From Bunbury near Tarporley, you can cruise through the Cheshire countryside to Chester. This ancient city has so much to offer visitors, including Roman city walls to walk, shopping at the Chester Rows, many historic pubs and vibrant restaurants and an award winning Zoo. The journey to Chester and back takes 14 hours and passes through 18 locks (nine each way).

5. Travel along the Llangollen Canal to Llangollen

From Trevor in North Wales, it takes around two hours to cruise to Llangollen. There you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and enjoy visiting this historic town nestled in the Berwyn Mountains. Llangollen has great places to visit, including the magnificent Horseshoe Falls and the National Trust’s Plas Newydd House.

6. Cruise the Kennet & Avon Canal to Devizes and the Caen Hill flight

Beginning your journey at Bradford on Avon in Wiltshire, it takes around eight hours to cruise through the Wiltshire countryside to Foxhangers Wharf at the base of the Caen Hill flight. There you can moor up and walk up the flight and into the vibrant market town of Devizes. The journey from Bradford on Avon to Foxhangers passes through seven locks.

Explore ‘Happy Valley’ country by canal boat

October 20, 2023/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Simon from The Version Humax recently reviewed his multi-generation family boating holiday in Yorkshire.

They set off from our canal boat hire base at Sowerby Bridge and travelled along the Calder & Hebble Navigation to Hebden Bridge.

Simon says, “The route allowed us to explore the idyllic surroundings at a leisurely pace, making it perfect for families looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.”

Once they reached Hebden Bridge, he said they enjoyed spotting well known locations from BBC’s Happy Valley series. And visiting the town’s independent shops, cafes and market.

They also ‘embarked on a family hike through the woodlands, marveling at the cascading waterfalls and verdant landscapes’ at nearby Hardcastle Crags.

To read Simon’s review, go to https://icymi.co.uk/2023/09/18/tie-world/tie-travel/2023-9-18-review-shire-cruisers-yorkshire/

To find out more about canals in the North East of England, go to https://www.drifters.co.uk/canals-of-north-east-england/

What to pack for your canal boat holiday

August 28, 2023/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Today’s canal boats are like floating holiday cottages, so you’ll find many home comforts already on board.

Our galley kitchens are equipped with a fridge and everything you need to cook with, including gas cookers with hob, oven and grill, cooking utensils, saucepans, plates, bowls, mugs, knives, forks, spoons, etc.

There are shower rooms and flushing toilets on board. Our operators include bedding and many also include towels.

To help you prepare for your canal boat holiday, we’ve put together a list of useful items to pack:

1. Wet & warm weather clothes

If it’s wet you’ll need a waterproof jacket and a large golfing umbrella for the skipper. If it’s sunny, you’ll need a sun hat, sun glasses and sun cream. Gloves are also useful for working the locks and steering when it’s cold.

2. Shoes & slippers

Trainers or rubber soled shoes are best for boating and lock working. And it’s a good idea to bring slippers or warm socks to wear on board.

3. Shopping bags

Bring re-useable shopping bags as well as re-useable plastic bottles and coffee cups to help limit the amount of plastic you acquire on your holiday afloat.

4. DVD’s, cards & games

For cosy nights in, bring along some cards and board games, as well some DVD’s as a good TV reception isn’t always available on the canals.

5. A torch

If you do venture out to the pub for the evening, it’s best to take a torch as country moorings can be incredibly dark at night.

6. Toilet rolls

Some will be supplied but do bring some extra lightweight toilet rolls – not quilted as this could block the loo.

7. Washing-up liquid & tea towel

Pack an eco-friendly washing-up liquid and hand soap, and make sure your shampoos and face washes are micro-bead free, as the water you use to wash-up and shower with will empty straight into the canal.

8. Binoculars

Great for spotting wildlife.

9. A canal map

Buy a canal map online or at the boat yard when you arrive to pick-up your boat. You can also plan your canal boat holiday online using the mapping tools on the Canal & River Trust’s website Canal route planner | Canal & River Trust (canalrivertrust.org.uk)

10. Drinks

The water on board is ok to use to make hot drinks and cook with, but it’s worth bringing a large bottle of drinking water to top-up with. And wine boxes are great space savers and safer to transport than bottles.

11. Condiments

Pack some extra flavourings as well as the main ingredients, including salt & pepper, tomato sauce, herbs and spices.

12. Phone chargers

Narrowboats have 240 volt 3-pin sockets powered by the on board batteries so you can charge your phones and tablets on board. But only do this when the engine is running to avoid draining the batteries. Blenders, cool boxes and hair straighteners can also be plugged in, but nothing above 1,000 watts is permitted – so no kettles, irons, hairdryers or heaters.

13. Your dog’s bed

Pets are welcome on board most hire boats, but remember to bring your pet’s blanket or basket as they aren’t allowed on the beds or chairs. Remember to bring poo bags too!

14. First aid kit

For any cuts, scrapes or grazes.

Top 8 canal boat holidays for wellbeing this summer

May 25, 2023/in News/by Debbie Ludford

It’s well known that spending time in green space connecting with nature is good for our mental health and wellbeing. Recent research by the Canal & River Trust confirms the combination of green and blue space with wildlife experienced by visitors to the inland waterways gives an extra wellbeing boost*.

Britain’s 3,000-mile network of inland waterways flow through some of our most beautiful and unspoilt countryside, including National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs).

Here’s a guide to Drifters’ Top 8 wellbeing destinations for narrowboat holidays in Summer 2023:

1. Navigate the Peak Forest Canal to Whaley Bridge

On a week’s holiday from our narrowboat hire base at Stoke on Trent, you can travel along the Trent & Mersey and Macclesfield canals to connect to the Peak Forest Canal and Whaley Bridge. The Peak Forest Canal is said to be one of Britain’s most scenic waterways, running through beautiful countryside on the edge of the Peak District National Park. The journey to Whaley Bridge travels 39 miles, passes through the Harecastle Tunnel and 13 locks, and takes around 20 cruising hours.

2. Explore the Staffordshire countryside & Cannock Chase

On a short break from Kings Orchard on the Coventry Canal in Staffordshire, you can cruise to the beautiful waters at Tixall Wide and back, passing through the Cannock Chase AONB along the way. The journey there and back travels 32 miles, passes through 10 locks (five each way) and takes around 16 hours.

3. Drift through the prehistoric Vale of Pewsey to Hungerford

On a week away from our base on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Devizes, you can cruise to the historic town of Hungerford, passing through the Vale of Pewsey, in the North Wessex Downs AONB. The journey there and back takes around 40 hours, travelling 54 miles through 106 locks.

4. Glide around the Breacon Beacons

The beautiful Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal runs through the Brecon Beacons National Park. Stretching 35 miles from Brecon to Cwmbran, this peaceful waterway offers canal boat holiday-makers incredible mountain views. On a week’s break from our base at Goytre Wharf, near Abergavenny, you can cruise to Brecon and back. The journey takes you through Georgian Crickhowell, with its fascinating 13th century castle. And Talybont-on-Usk, with wonderful walks to the waterfalls at Blaen y Glyn. Brecon is home to a cathedral, theatre, cinema, castle ruins and stunning Georgian architecture. And you can enjoy some of the best views of the Brecon Beacons from Pen y Fan, the highest point in Southern Britain at 886 metres.

5. Cruise to the Aylesbury Vale

On a week’s break from Gayton Marina you can travel south to the Aylesbury Arm and into the Vale of Aylesbury, part of the Chilterns AONB. The journey to Aylesbury passes through a series of canalside towns and villages, including Stoke Bruerne with its Canal Museum. And Marsworth next to Tring Reservoirs, a nature reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The route travels 44 miles, passes through 41 locks and takes around 22 hours.

6. Float through the Dee Valley in North Wales

On a short break from Chirk on the Llangollen Canal, you can float through the Dee Valley AONB to the pretty Eisteddfod town of Llangollen. You’ll pass over the UNESCO World Heritage Status Pontcysyllte Aqueduct along the way. And you’ll cruise across the Chirk Aqueduct and through Whitehouses Tunnel. The journey to Llangollen and back takes around eight hours, travelling 14 miles, with no locks.

7. Take a Thames boating holiday to the edge of the Cotswolds

On a four-night mid-week break from Oxford, you can travel west along the River Thames to the pretty market town of Lechlade, in an AONG on the edge of the Cotswolds. The route passes through 22 miles of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire countryside. You’ll pass close-by to Kelmscott Manor, once the Cotswold retreat of William Morris. It takes around 17 hours to cruise there and back, passing through seven locks each way.

8. Travel through the Yorkshire Dales to Skipton

On a short break from Barnoldswick, you can head north-east along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal to historic Skipton. The journey travels 13 miles through the Yorkshire Dales, passing through 15 locks in around 10 hours. This breath-taking route winds along the contours of the side of Airedale, with extensive views of the Yorkshire Dales. You see sheep, farmhouses, barns, stone walls and the occasional village or town. Once in Skipton, you can moor up to visit shops and restaurants. And explore the 900-year old Skipton Castle, one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England.

*The Canal & River Trust’s research was carried out by King’s College London, Nomad Projects and J&L Gibbons using Urban Mind, a smartphone based app to collect thousands of real time audits about participants’ location and mental wellbeing. Proof that time by water helps boost your mood | Canal & River Trust (canalrivertrust.org.uk)