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Top leafy canals to cruise this autumn

May 27, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Explore our top leafy canals to cruise this autumn

Britain’s 3,000-mile network of inland waterways meanders through some of our best-loved countryside, including anicent woodlands and forests.

To celebrate the beautiful autumn colours in our trees and hedgerows, we’ve listed our top five leafy canals to cruise this autumn:

1. The Calder & Hebble in West Yorkshire

The 21-mile long leafy Calder & Hebble Navigation links Wakefield with Sowerby Bridge. On a short break from Sowerby Bridge, you can cruise along the Calder & Hebble to Shepley Bridge and back. The route will take you through wooded valleys and the historic towns of Elland and Brighouse along the way. The journey there and back travels 22 miles, passes through 32 locks and takes around 16 hours.

2. The Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal in South Wales

This 35-mile long peaceful waterway follows the line of the wooded Usk Valley through the Brecon Beacons National Park. It has to be one of the most leafy canals to cruise on Britain’s beautiful inland waterways network. On a short break from Goytre, you can cruise to Talybont-on-Usk and back, passing the villages and hamlets of Llaellen, Llanfoist, Govilon, Llangattock and Llangynidr. The journey there and back travels 39 miles, passes through 10 locks and takes around 18 hours.

3. The Macclesfield Canal in Cheshire

This 26-mile long tree-lined canal runs from Marple in Cheshire to Hall Green, on the Trent & Mersey Canal. On a week’s break from Stoke on Trent, you can connect to the Macclesfield Canal and cruise to Macclesfield and back. You’ll pass through the 1.5 mile long Harecastle Tunnel on the Trent & Mersey Canal, before transferring onto the Macclesfield Canal. Then you’ll meander through the countryside to enjoy a series of wooded sections, as well as views of the distant hills. The journey to Macclesfield and back travels 42 miles, passes through 26 locks and takes around 21 hours.

4. The Stratford Canal in Warwickshire

This 25.5-mile long narrow canal connects Stratford-upon-Avon with the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Kings Norton Junction. The middle wooded section passes through the remains of the Forest of Arden. On a short break from Wootton Wawen, you can cruise through quiet countryside to Hatton Locks and back. You’ll pass through the village of Lowsonford with its popular Fleur de Lys canalside pub, and Lapworth where you transfer onto the Grand Union Canal. The journey to Hatton and back cruises 21 miles, passes through 34 locks and takes around 14 hours.

5. The Kennet & Avon Canal in Wiltshire

The 87-mile long Kennet & Avon Canal links the Bristol Avon near Bath, with the River Thames at Reading. On a week’s break from Devizes, at the foot of the famous Caen Hill flight of locks, you can cruise to Hungerford and back. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Vale of Pewsey, part of the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are a series of wooded sections to enjoy, including an area of the Savernake Forest. The journey to Hungerford and back travels 54 miles, passes through 106 locks and takes around 40 hours.

Experience Christmas or New Year on a narrowboat

November 1, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Drifters offers winter canal holidays from seven locations in England and Wales

With quiet canals, cosy waterside pubs and festive waterside destinations, why not experience Christmas or New Year on a narrowboat.

We offer winter cruising* from seven of our bases, with boats offering accommodation for between two to 12 people.

All our winter boats have central heating, hot water, televisions, DVD players and Wifi. Some also have multi-fuel stoves. So, whatever the weather, it’s always nice and cosy on board.

Prices over Christmas and New Year start at start at £765 for a short break (three or four nights) on a boat for up to four, £970 for a week.

1. Cruise through the Welsh mountains to Llangollen

From our canal boat rental base at Trevor on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, it takes around 2 hours to cruise to Llangollen. There you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and enjoy visiting this beautiful mountainside town. Things to see include the Llangollen Steam Railway, the National Trust’s Plas Newydd house and gardens and the Horseshoe Falls. There’s a great choice of independent shops and places to eat, including the popular Corn Mill with river and mountain views.

2. Navigate through the Bath Valley to Georgian Bath

From Bradford on Avon on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Wiltshire, it takes around 4 hours to cruise to moorings at Sydney Gardens, just a 15 minute walk from Bath City Centre. They journey passes through just one lock and across the Avoncliff and Dundas Aqueducts. There’s so much to see and do in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath, including a visit to the Roman Baths and Pump Rooms.

3. Cruise through the countryside to Staffordshire’s foodie capital

Heading north from Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal in Staffordshire, you can reach the historic market town of Stone in around 5 hours. The journey passes through 8 locks (4 each way) and passes through 10 peaceful miles of Staffordshire countryside. Pubs to enjoy along the way include the Saracen’s Head at Weston and the Dog & Doublet at Sandon. Once at Stone, considered to be Staffordshire’s foodie capital, you can explore a great choice of places to eat and shop.

4. Travel through the Shropshire Lake District to Ellesmere

From Whixall on the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire, it takes around 4 hours to reach the historic town of Ellesmere in the heart of the Shropshire Lake District. Along the way, the route passes Lyneal Moss and Colemere Country Park. Once at Ellesmere, there’s a choice of independent shops and restaurants, as well as gardens, woods and castle grounds to explore at the Mere.

5. Float to through the Warwickshire countryside to Stratford-upon-Avon

From Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal in Warwickshire, it’s a 6-hour cruise to Stratford-upon-Avon. The journey takes you through the Warwickshire countryside, passing through 17 locks along the way. Once in Stratford, you can moor up in Bancroft Basin, just a short walk from this popular tourist town’s excellent choice of theatres, restaurants, markets and museums.

6. Cruise through the Aire Valley to Skipton in the Yorkshire Dales

On a short winter break from Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal near Keighley, you can cruise to Skipton and back. The 6.5 mile journey through the Aire Valley takes around 3.5 hours and there are no locks. Pubs to enjoy along the way include the Slaters Arms at Bradley and the Bay Horse at Snaygill. Once at Skipton, you can moor up to explore this ancient market town and its medieval castle.

7. Navigate through the Cheshire countryside to Chester

On a short Christmas break from Bunbury on the Shropshire Union Canal near Tarporley, you can cruise to Chester and back. The 12 mile (6 each way) journey through the Cheshire countryside passes through 18 locks (9 each way) and takes around 14 hours (7 each way). Pubs to enjoy along the way include the Shady Oak at Wharton’s Lock and Cheshire Cat at Christleton. Once at Chester, you can moor up to experience Christmas or New Year in this ancient city with Roman Walls, Chester Rows shops and a great choice of places to eat and drink.

*NB some routes may be affected by winter maintenance work on the canal network.

New Narrowboats for hire in 2026

October 28, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Every year new boats are added to the Drifters fleet.

We offer the choice of over 500 canal boats for hire from 40 locations across England, Wales and Scotland. Every year we build new boats overs the winter, ready to launch the following spring.

Here’s a guide to our new narrowboats for hire in 2026:

The new ‘Princess 2 Royal’ will launch at Falkirk

This 47ft cruiser stern narrowboat for two will be available from Falkirk on the Scottish Lowland Canals. The Princess 2 Royal is perfect for couples and beginners, as the shorter length makes it easier to steer. The boat features a galley kitchen at the back of the boat with microwave, 4-ring gas cooker, oven, grill, small fridge, toaster and cooking equipment. There’s a full-sized double bed in the front of the boat (which can be extended to king size). The saloon has a smart TV, and a seating/dining area that can be converted into a double-bed. The boat also has a bathroom with a full sized shower, wash basin and flushing toilet.

*2026 prices for the new Princess 2 Royal start at £1,049 for a short break, £1,499 for a week. Price includes boat hire, gas, car parking, tuition on arrival, damage waiver, buoyancy aids, bed linen, towels and first pet. Fuel is charged on return, circa £10-15 per day.

The new ‘Crown Royal’ narrowboat will be available from Stoke Prior

This new 65ft Royal range ‘Crown’ cruiser stern narrowboat for up to six people will be available from Stoke Prior on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal near Worcester. The Crown is a great choice for friends holidaying together as there are two separate bedrooms with full-sized double beds (or two singles) and two toilet and shower rooms. The Crown also features a spacious galley kitchen with microwave, a large flat screen TV and DAB/Bluetooth Radio.

*2026 prices for the new Royal range Crown narrowboats start at £1,249 for a short break, £1,849 for a week. Price includes boat hire, gas, car parking, tuition on arrival, damage waiver, buoyancy aids, bed linen, towels and first pet. Fuel is charged on return, circa £10-15 per day.

The new ‘Crown Royal’ narrowboat will be available from Napton

This new 65ft Royal range ‘Crown’ cruiser stern narrowboat for up to 6 people will be available from Napton, where the South Oxford Canal meets the Grand Union Canal. The Crown is a great choice for friends holidaying together as there are two separate bedrooms with full sized double beds (or two singles) and two toilet and shower rooms, allowing for more space and privacy. The Crown also features a spacious galley kitchen with microwave, a large flat screen TV and DAB/Bluetooth Radio.

A new ‘Ocean Class’ narrowboat will launch at Trevor

A new 60ft ‘Ocean’ Class cruiser stern narrowboat for up to 10 people will be available to hire from Trevor on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales. The boat will feature: two double cabins and three sleeping areas that can either be configured as a doubles or singles; a toilet/shower room; and an extra toilet.

*2026 ‘Ocean’ Class prices start at £1,245 for short break, £1,615 for a week. Price includes bed linen, towels, first pet, parking and tuition on arrival. A fuel deposit (£70 for a short break, £110 for a week) is extra. Fuel charges are based on use, circa £15 per day. There’s a compulsory £50 damage waiver. Second and third pets are charged at £25 each for a short break, £35 each for a week.

A new ‘Ocean Class’ narrowboat will launch at Wootton Wawen

A new 60ft ‘Ocean’ Class cruiser stern narrowboat for up to 10 people will be available to hire from Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal in Warwickshire. The boat will feature: two double cabins and three sleeping areas that can either be configured as a doubles or singles; a toilet/shower room; and an extra toilet.

The ‘Ringed Plover’ will launch at Hilperton

The 58ft ‘Ringed Plover’ semi-traditional stern narrowboat for up to 5 people will be available to hire from Hilperton, on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Trowbridge. The ‘Ringed Plover’ will have two cabins: the rear can be configured as one double or 2 singles, with optional wider beds; and the mid cabin will have a permanent double bed. The seating/dining area in the saloon can be converted into a single bed in the evening, if required. The bathroom has a hand basin, flush toilet and shower with bi-fold doors. The boat has a fully equipped galley kitchen, two televisions and free wifi.

*2026 prices for ‘Ringed Plover’ start at £899 for short break, £1,999 for a week. Price includes bedding, towels, non-refundable accidental damage waiver, two pets, car parking, tuition, buoyancy aids, helmsman’s waterproofs and a welcome pack with cleaning materials. Fuel is extra: a £60 deposit is taken for a short break, £110 for a week’s holiday. Actual cost based on use, circa £15 per day.

The ‘Oriental Plover’ will launch at Whitchurch

The 58ft ‘Oriental Plover’ semi-traditional stern narrowboat for up to 5 people will be available to hire from Whitchurch on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire. The ‘Oriental Plover’ will have two cabins: the rear can be configured as one double or 2 singles, with optional wider beds; and the mid cabin will have a permanent double bed. The seating/dining area in the saloon can be converted into a single bed in the evening, if required. The bathroom has a hand basin, flush toilet and shower with bi-fold doors. The boat has a fully equipped galley kitchen, 2 televisions and free wifi.

*2026 prices for ‘Oriental’ start at £899 for short break, £1,999 for a week. Price includes bedding, towels, non-refundable accidental damage waiver, two pets, car parking, tuition, buoyancy aids, helmsman’s waterproofs and a welcome pack with cleaning materials. Fuel is extra: a £60 deposit is taken for a short break, £110 for a week’s holiday. Actual cost based on use, circa £15 per day.

The ‘Peregrine Falcon’ will navigate from Gayton

The 69ft ‘Peregrine Falcon’ semi-traditional stern narrowboat for up to 8 people will be available to hire from Gayton on the Grand Union Canal near Northampton. The ‘Peregrine Falcon’ will have three cabins. Two at the front which can either be configured as a double or 2 singles, with the option to make them wider. The mid cabin has a permanent double bed and the seating area can be converted into a double bed in the evening, if required. There are two bathrooms with hand basins, flush toilets and showers with bi-fold doors. The boat has a fully equipped galley kitchen, two televisions and free wifi.

*2026 prices for ‘Peregrine Falcon’ start at £1,249 for short break, £1,799 for a week. Price includes bedding, towels, non-refundable accidental damage waiver, two pets, car parking, tuition, buoyancy aids, helmsman’s waterproofs and a welcome pack with cleaning materials. Fuel is extra: a £60 deposit is taken for a short break, £110 for a week’s holiday. Actual cost based on use, circa £15 per day.

‘Bamboo Partridge’ will cruise from Blackwater Meadow

The 66ft ‘Bamboo Partridge’ semi-traditional stern narrowboat for up to six people will arrive at Blackwater Meadow on the Llangollen Canal in Shropshire. The ‘Bamboo Partridge’ will have two double cabins that can be made up as singles or doubles (with optional wider beds), and the seating/dining area can be converted into a double bed. She will have two shower/toilet rooms, a front deck table, LED lighting, two televisions and WiFi.

*2026 prices for ‘Bamboo Partridge’ currently start at £1,199 for a short break, £1,649 for a week. Price includes bedding, towels, non-refundable accidental damage waiver, two pets, car parking, tuition, buoyancy aids, helmsman’s waterproofs and a welcome pack with cleaning materials. Fuel is extra: a £60 deposit is taken for a short break, £110 for a week’s holiday. Actual cost based on use, circa £15 per day.

‘Blackpoll Warbler’ will be bookable from Aldermaston

The new 69ft ‘Blackpoll Warbler’ semi-traditional stern narrowboat for up to 8 people will arrive at Aldermaston on the Kennet & Avon Canal in Berkshire. The boat will have three cabins: one fixed as double; and two which can be configured as doubles or singles. ‘Blackpoll Warbler’ will have LED lighting, a front deck table, optional wider beds, two shower/toilet rooms, WiFi and two TV’s.

*2026 prices aboard ‘Blackpoll Warbler’ currently start at £1,249 for a short break, £1,799 for a week. Price includes bedding, towels, collision damage waiver, two pets, car parking and tuition. Fuel is extra: a £60 deposit is taken for a short break, £110 for a week’s holiday. Actual cost based on use, circa £10-15 per day.

The new ‘Duchess 6 Royal’ will be available from Acton Bridge & Stoke Prior

The new Duchess 6 Royal cruiser stern narrowboat for up to six people will be available from Acton Bridge on the Trent & Mersey Canal and Stoke Prior on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal. The Duchess 6 Royal features full-sized double beds (which can be extended to king size) in two cabins, and two toilet and shower rooms. The saloon seating area can be made up into an extra double bed at night. There’s a spacious galley kitchen with microwave, a large flat screen TV and DAB/Bluetooth Radio.

*2026 prices for the new Duchess 6 Royal start at £1,249 for a short break, £1,849 for a week. Price includes boat hire, gas, car parking, tuition on arrival, damage waiver, buoyancy aids, bed linen, towels and first pet. Fuel is charged on return, circa £10-15 per day.

Best autumn days out boating on the canals

August 15, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Hire a canal boat for the day this autumn

Drifters members hire canal boats for the day from 19 narrowboat hire bases across England and Wales, offering the chance to enjoy a family day out boating on the canals this autumn.

Our best autumn days out boating on the canals include cruising along the Stratford Canal to the historic village of Wilmcote. On a day out canal boating, you can see the beautiful autumn colours in the trees and hedges that line our canals reflected in the water.

Full tuition is included, so if you’re new to canal boating, day boat hire is a great way to get the hang of steering, mooring up and working the locks.

All our day boats are equipped with cutlery, crockery and a kettle, and most also have a toilet, cooker and fridge. Boats range in size and can accommodate between eight and 12 people.

Our day boat hire prices start at £99 and are pet-friendly.

1. Cruise through Shakespeare country to Wilmcote (Warwickshire)

From our day boat hire centre at 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. For refreshments, The Mary Arden Inn is at Wilmcote and The View Restaurant is at Hill Farm Marina, close to Edstone Aqueduct.

*Day boats ‘Dolly’, ‘Charlie’ and ‘Emma’ can carry up to 10 people each and prices start at £99.

2. 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 two hours and passes through two locks. It takes you through the Cannock Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and past the popular Wolseley Arms pub at Wolseley Bridge. At Rugeley, you can walk to the canalside Colliers pub.

*Day boats ‘Daphne’ and ‘Abi’ can carry up to 10 people each and prices start at £99.

3. Glide along the leafy Worcester & Birmingham Canal (Worcestershire)

On a day out from Alvechurch Marina near Bromsgrove, you can cruise north 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 take a walk around the Bittell Reservoirs. The route is lock-free but passes through Wast Hills Tunnel, which is over a mile-and-a-half long.

*Electric day boats ‘Away Day’ and ‘Fun Day’ can carry up to 10 people and prices start at £155.

4. 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 two-and-a-half-hours to reach moorings close to the popular Star pub at Mamhillad, a short walk from bridge 62.

*Day boats ‘Robin’ and Rooster’ can carry up to eight people each and prices start at £149.

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

From Braunston in heart of the canal network, you can reach the historic village of Napton-on-the-Hill. The lock-free journey takes you through the Northamptonshire countryside and into Warwickshire. Once at Napton, you can moor up and walk into the village where there’s a choice of pubs, including the popular Kings Head. The journey to Napton and back takes around six hours.

*Day boat ‘Ouzel II’ can carry up to 12 people and prices start at £150.

6. Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’ (Denbighshire)

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 over the Aqueduct, there are two tunnels and another aqueduct to cross, before you reach the Bridge Inn at Chirk Bank. The journey to Chirk takes around two-and-a-half hours.

*Day boats ‘Jacob’, ‘Daniel’ and ‘Lotty’ can carry up to 10 people each and prices start at £120.

7. 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 visit the Angelfish café for lunch. The journey there and back travels nine miles and takes around four hours.

*Day boats ‘Jacy’, ‘Emily’, ‘Katherine’, ‘Sally’ & ‘Grace’ can carry up to 10 people each and prices start at £185.

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

From our day boat hire centre at Aldermaston on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Reading, you can cruise to Theale and back. Along the way, you can stop off to enjoy lunch at the Spring Inn at Sulhamstead, a 10-minute walk from the canal. The total journey takes just over four hours and passes through two locks each way.

*Day boat ‘Happy Days’ can carry up to 10 people and summer prices start from £155.

Best summer days out canal boating

July 10, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

We offer canal boat day hire from 19 locations

Drifters offers day boat hire from 19 places across England and Wales for the best summer days out canal boating.

Full tuition is included, so if you’re new to narrow boating, you can get the hang of steering, mooring up and working the locks.

All our day boats are equipped with cutlery, crockery and a kettle, and most also have a toilet, cooker and fridge. So you can plan a picnic afloat or stop-off for lunch at a canalside pub along the way.

Boats range in size and can accommodate between eight and 12 people. Day boat prices start at £99 on week days, and £150 on weekends and bank holidays.

To help you plan your family day out afloat, we’ve listed our best summer days out canal boating:

1. Navigate through the Staffordshire countryside to Hopwas

From Kings Orchard Marina, on the Coventry Canal near Lichfield, you can cruise through the Staffordshire countryside to Bonehill Bridge and back. The route takes you through the villages Huddlesford, Whittington and Hopwas. At Hopwas there are two pubs to choose from – the Tame Otter and the Red Lion. The journey to Bonehill and back takes 5.5 hours and there are no locks.

2. Glide along the leafy Worcester & Birmingham Canal to Kings Norton

On a day out from Alvechurch Marin near Bromsgrove, you can cruise north through the remains of the Forest of Arden to Kings Norton Junction. There’s a choice of pubs to visit along the way, including the canalside Crown and Weighbridge pubs at Alvechurch. The route is lock-free but there are 3 tunnels to pass through, including Wast Hill Tunnel, which is nearly 2.5km long.

3. Navigate to The Star Inn at Mamhillad in the Brecon Beacons

Heading out for a day afloat from Goytre Wharf, day boaters can travel along the beautiful Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal, enjoying incredible mountain views. It takes around 2.5 hours to cruise to moorings close to the popular Star pub at Mamhillad, a short walk from bridge 62.

4. Cruise along the Grand Union Canal to Napton-on-the-Hill

From our day boat hire centre at Braunston in heart of the canal network, you can cruise to the historic village of Napton-on-the-Hill. The journey, which takes around 3 hours, takes you through the Northamptonshire countryside and into Warwickshire. Once at Napton, you can moor up and walk into the village where there’s a choice of pubs, including the popular Kings Head.

5. Boat along the Shropshire Union Canal to Nantwich

From our canal boat hire base at Bunbury Wharf on the Shropshire Union Canal near Tarporley, you can cruise south for 6 miles to Nantwich. There you can travel across the impressive Grade II* listed Nantwich Aqueduct, enjoying panoramic views across the town. You’ll pass the Barbridge Inn along the way, and there’s a choice of places to eat and drink in Nantwich. The journey to Nantwich takes around 2.5 hours.

6. Cruise through Shakespeare country to Wilmcote

From Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal, you can cruise to the pretty village of Wilmcote, home of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust’s Mary Arden Farm. The journey takes 2.5 hours, and crosses over the Edstone Aqueduct with amazing views across the Warwickshire countryside. From moorings at the top of the Wilmcote lock flight, it’s a short walk into Wilmcote and the Mary Arden Inn.

7. Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’ in North Wales

From Trevor on the Llangollen Canal, day boaters can cruise across the UNESCO World Heritage status Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Standing at over 38 metres high above the Dee Valley, this incredible structure offers stunning views of the Dee Valley below. After cruising over the Aqueduct, there are two tunnels and another aqueduct to cross, before reaching the Bridge Inn at Chirk. It takes around 2.5 hours to reach Chirk.

8. Boat along the Kennet & Avon Canal to Avoncliff Aqueduct

From Hilperton Marina, near Trowbridge in Wiltshire, you can head west to the picturesque town of Bradford on Avon. You pass through one lock and then on to the impressive Bath stone Avoncliff Aqueduct. The No.10 Cafe is next to the Aqueduct. The journey to Avoncliff takes around 3 hours.

9. Cruise the Peak Forest Canal to Marple Junction

From New Mills Marina on the Peak Forest Canal in Derbyshire, you can cruise to Marple Junction and back. You’ll enjoy fantastic views of the rolling countryside along the way. At Marple Junction, you can visit the Hatters Arms. And walk up along the Marple Lock flight, to see boats passing through one of the steepest lock flights in Britain.

10. Glide through the Warwickshire countryside to Marston

On a day out boating from Springwood Haven Marina on the Coventry Canal in Warwickshire, you can cruise to Marston and back. You can stop off at the canalside Horseshoes pub along the way.

For more information about Drifters day boat hire, go to https://www.drifters.co.uk/day-boats/

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/

Best waterside pubs to visit on a narrowboat holiday

June 24, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Waterside pubs are popular destinations for canal boat holiday-makers, and there are hundreds to choose from.

We’ve published a guide to some of the best waterside pubs to visit on a narrowboat holiday this summer.

It’s great to be beside water, especially in the summer. Canal and riverside pubs are popular destinations, and there are hundreds to choose from across Britain’s 3,000-mile network of navigable inland waterways.

With names like The Lock Inn, The Navigation Inn, The Narrowboat, The Tunnel and The Bridge, canalside pubs often date back to the days when canals were the transport network of the industrial revolution. Canalside inns provided refreshment for working boat families, their horses, and professional leggers who propelled boats through tunnels.

Today they are popular destinations for narrowboat holiday-makers, as well as people wanting to sit in a canalside pub garden, watching the boats go by.

1. The Bridge Inn, Chirk Bank in Shropshire

You can reach this popular watering hole on the Llangollen Canal on a short break from Chirk, Trevor or Blackwater Meadow. Also known as The Trap, the historic Bridge Inn is on the 11-mile stretch of the Llangollen Canal designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and has views of the magnificent Chirk Aqueduct.

2. The Hollybush Inn at Denford in Staffordshire

Housed in an old flour mill on the Caldon Canal, the Hollybush Inn is surrounded by Staffordshire Moorlands. The pub offers award winning ales and delicious homemade food. It has a large canalside beer garden and is both family and dog friendly. From Stoke on Trent it takes around 7 hours to reach The Hollybush.

3. The Stubbing Wharf at Hebden Bridge in West Yorkshire

The Stubbing Wharf on the Rochdale Canal offers home cooked food, including Sunday lunch roasts. It has a choice of real ales and a canalside beer garden. The pub was built soon after the completion of the Rochdale Canal in 1789. It served travellers on both the canal and the turnpike road. Its curious name derives from the ancient settlement of Stubbing, an Anglo-Saxon word for clearing where the tree stumps have been left. From Sowerby Bridge it takes around 5.5 hours to reach Hebden Bridge.

4. The Swan at Fradley Junction in Staffordshire

At the junction of the Trent & Mersey and Coventry canals at Alrewas, the historic Swan pub is known locally as the ‘Mucky Duck’. The pub offers traditional home cooked meals and a choice of cask ales. The Swan’s bar area is decorated with Roses & Castles narrowboat art. The Swan at Fradley is a 1.5-hour cruise from Kings Orchard and a 6-hour cruise from Great Haywood.

5. The Blue Lias Inn at Stockton in Warwickshire

Located on the Grand Union Canal, this historic rural pub was named after the limestone and clay that is quarried locally. The clay is derived from material laid down in the early Jurassic seas, when dinosaurs roamed the earth. The Blue Lias is around 2.5 hours by boat from Stockton.

6. The Plume of Feathers at Barlaston in Staffordshire

This popular pub on the Trent & Mersey Canal is part owned by the actor Neil Morrissey. Visitors can sample some of Neil’s own beers and ales, and choose from a menu of homemade dishes made from fresh local ingredients. It takes just over 3 hours to reach Barlastan from Stoke on Trent, and 7 hours from Great Haywood.

7. The Crown Inn at Alvechurch in Worcestershire

This historic country pub next to the Worcester & Birmingham Canal has a rustic charm, a good selection of ales and lagers and great value food. Our nearest base is just 15 minutes away at Alvechurch.

8. The Olde Barbridge Inn at Nantwich in Cheshire

This historic pub on the Shropshire Union Canal near Nantwich sells a selection of local ales brewed at its own local brewery. The pub serves classic British food made with local produce. Our nearest bases are at Nantwich and Bunbury.

9. The Boat Inn, Gnosall in Staffordshire

This traditional family run pub on the banks of the Shropshire Union Canal can be reached on a short break from Brewood. It has a patio area overlooking the canal and is renowned for its homemade pies and fish and chips.

10. The Fleur De Lys at Lowsonford in Warwickshire

This pretty 17th century country pub on the banks of the Stratford Canal has a lovely beer garden. The Fleur De Lys has been famous for its pies since the 1950’s, all served with seasonal vegetables, chunky chips and gravy. Our nearest base is just 3 hours away at Wootton Wawen.

Canal anniversaries in 2026

April 28, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Every year there are anniversaries celebrated across the canal network

There are some exciting canal anniversaries in 2026, including the 200th birthday of the Lancaster Canal.

We’ve listed canals and structures celebrating birthdays in 2026, that you can reach on a Drifters boating holiday:

The Leeds & Liverpool Canal main line is 210 years old

Completed in 1816, at 127 miles long the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is the longest single canal in the country. Construction was authorised in 1770 and began at once with John Longbotham as engineer. The canal crosses the Pennines and links the wide waterways of Yorkshire with those of Lancashire and the River Mersey. The Leeds & Liverpool main line has 93 locks and two tunnels. Drifters has bases on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal at Silsden and Barnoldswick.

The Stratford Canal is 210 years old

Completed in 1816, the 25-mile long Stratford Canal (also known as the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal) has 54 locks. It’s a narrow canal so only one narrowboat at a time can go into each lock. The Stratford Canal links Shakespeare’s Stratford and the River Avon in the south, with the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Kings Norton Junction. We have a base on the Stratford Canal at Wootton Wawen, and you can reach the Stratford Canal on a short break from Alvechurch.

The Llangollen Canal is 220 years old

Completed in 1806, the 41-mile long Llangollen Canal crosses the border between England and Wales. It links the historic market town of Llangollen in the Welsh Mountains with the Shropshire Union Canal at Hurleston Junction in Cheshire. It travels through the Shropshire Lake District and in 2009, an 11-mile section of the waterway from Gledrid Bridge to the Horseshoe Falls in Llangollen was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. This includes the awesome Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways. We have bases on the Llangollen Canal at Trevor, Chirk, Blackwater Meadow, Whixall, Whitchurch and Wrenbury.

Braunston Tunnel is 230 years old

Completed in 1796, at over a mile long (1,867 metres/2,042 yards) Braunston Tunnel on the Grand Union Canal in Northamptonshire is one of the longest canal tunnels in Britain. It takes around 20 minutes to navigate and is wide enough to accommodate passing narrowboats. Our nearest bases are at Braunston, Napton and Stockton.

250 years ago permission to build the Caldon Canal was granted

The Act of Parliament giving permission to build the Caldon Canal was passed in 1776 and it opened in 1779. This 18-mile long waterway runs from the Trent & Mersey Canal at Etruria in Stoke-on-Trent, to Froghall Wharf in the Staffordshire Moorlands. There are 17 locks along its length. We have base at Stoke-on-Trent and you can also reach the Caldon Canal on a week’s holiday from Great Haywood.

The Barge Inn on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Seend

Best canal and riverside pubs

April 10, 2025/in News/by Drifters

There are hundreds of lovely canal and riverside pubs to enjoy across Britain

It’s great to be by the water in the summer time, so we’ve published a guide to the best canal and riverside pubs, with our nearest canal boat hire bases:

1. The Bridge Inn, Chirk Bank in Shropshire

You can reach this popular watering hole on the Llangollen Canal on a short break from our bases at Chirk, Trevor and Blackwater Meadow. Also known as ‘The Trap’, this historic inn enjoys views of the magnificent Chirk Aqueduct. And it’s on the 11-mile stretch of the Llangollen Canal designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. The Boat Inn, Gnosall in Staffordshire

3. The Barge Inn, Bradford on Avon Wiltshire

This popular pub on the Kennet & Avon Canal in beautiful Bradford on Avon has canalside gardens where you can watch the boats go by. It can be reached on a short break from our bases at Bath, Monkton Combe, Bradford on Avon, Hilperton and Devizes.

4. The Leigh Arms, Little Leigh in Cheshire

On the banks of the River Weaver near Northwich, you can reach this charming riverside pub on a short break from our bases at Anderton and Acton Bridge.

5. The Fleur de Lys, Lowsonford in Warwickshire

Famous for its pies, this 17th century country pub has extensive gardens alongside the Stratford Canal. You can reach it on a short break from our base at Wootton Wawen.

6. The Plume of Feathers, Barlaston in Staffordshire

Co-owned by the actor Neil Morrissey, this popular pub on the Trent & Mersey Canal offers homemade food and locally brewed beers. You can reach it on a short break from our bases at Stoke-on-Trent and Great Haywood.

7. The Cutter Inn, Ely in Cambridgeshire

You can reach this popular riverside pub on the Great River Ouse on a short break from our Ely and March bases. It has an outdoor terrace for al fresco drinking and dining with excellent river views.

8. The Dundas Arms, Kintbury in Berkshire

This traditional country pub and hotel on the banks of the Kennet & Avon Canal can be reached on a short break from Aldermaston. It has a large beer garden, perfect for summertime al fresco drinking and dining.

9. The Barge Inn, Seend in Wiltshire

This popular country inn on the banks of the Kennet & Avon Canal, offers canalside alfresco dining and great food. Our nearest boat hire bases are at Devizes, Hilperton and Bradford on Avon.

10. The Bridge Inn, Ratho in Midlothian

This historic pub and hotel on the banks of the Union Canal near Edinburgh can be reached on a short break from Falkirk. There’s a dining terrace overlooking the canal, and home-grown fruit and vegetables are served from the pub’s walled garden.

Best days out boating on the canals this spring

March 10, 2025/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Drifters offers canal boat day hire from 19 locations in England and Wales.

We’ve published a guide to the best days out boating on the canals this spring.

With prices starting from just £10 per person, hiring a canal boat for the day is a great way to get the family together for a memorable day out cruising through the countryside.

Our day boats vary in size and can accommodate up to 12 people. Full tuition is included so if you are new to narrow boating, you can get the hang of steering, mooring up and working the locks.

All our day boats are equipped with cutlery, crockery and a kettle, and most also have a toilet, cooker and fridge. So you can plan a picnic afloat or stop off for lunch at a canalside pub along the way.

To help you plan your family day out canal boating this spring, we’ve listed our top 10 destinations for day boat hire:

1. Staffordshire: Navigate through the countryside for a pub lunch at Hopwas

From Kings Orchard Marina, on the Coventry Canal near Lichfield, you can cruise through the Staffordshire countryside to Bonehill Bridge and back. The route takes boaters through the villages Huddlesford, Whittington and Hopwas. At Hopwas there are two pubs to choose from – the Tame Otter and the Red Lion. The journey to Bonehill and back takes five and a half hours and there are no locks.

*Electric day boat ‘Perfect Day’ can take up to 10 people. 2025 prices start at £155.

2. Derbyshire: Cruise to Whaley Bridge in the Peak District

On a day out from New Mills Marina on the Peak Forest Canal in Derbyshire, you can cruise to Whaley Bridge in the Peak District. You’ll experience spectacular views across the Goyt Valley and Kinder Scout, the highest plateau in England. You’ll pass close by to the Crossings pub along the way and there’s a choice of places to eat in Whaley Bridge.

*Electric boat ‘Field Day’ can carry up to 10 people. 2025 prices start at £139.

3. Monmouthshire: Navigate to The Star Inn at Mamhillad

From Goytre Wharf on the beautiful Monmouth & Brecon Canal near Abergavenny, you can enjoy incredible mountain views. It takes around two-and-a-half-hours to cruise to moorings close to the popular Star pub at Mamhillad, a short walk from bridge 62.

*Day boats ‘Robin’ and Rooster’ can carry up to eight people each, and ‘Dragon’ up to 12. 2025 prices start from £155.

4. Warwickshire: Cruise along the Stratford Canal to The Mary Arden Inn at Wilmcote

From Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal near Stratford-upon-Avon, you can head south to moorings close to the historic village of Wilmcot. There you enjoy lunch at the historic The Mary Arden Inn. The journey takes two-and-a-half hours each way, and crosses over the impressive Edstone Aqueduct with views across the Warwickshire countryside.

*Day boats ‘Dolly’ and ‘Charlie’ can carry up to 10 people each. Prices start at £99 weekdays, £150 on weekends and bank holidays.

5. Wrexham: Travel across ‘The Stream in the Sky’

From Trevor on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, it takes just 10 minutes to reach the UNESCO World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Standing at over 38 metres high above the Dee Valley, this incredible structure offers stunning views of the Dee Valley below. After cruising over the Aqueduct, there are two tunnels and another aqueduct to cross, before reaching the Bridge Inn at Chirk.

*Day boats ‘Jacob’, ‘Daniel’ and ‘Lotty’ can carry up to 10 people each. Weekday hire starts at £120, £180 on weekends and bank holidays.

6. Wiltshire: Boat to Avoncliff Aqueduct

From Hilperton Marina on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Trowbridge, you can head west to the historic town of Bradford on Avon. You can travel on through the Avon Valley on to Avoncliff Aqueduct. The journey to Avoncliff and back takes around six hours and there’s just one lock to pass through each way.

*Electric day boat ‘Great Day’ can carry up to 10 people. 2025 prices start at £155.

7. Berkshire: Cruise through the countryside to the Spring Inn

From Aldermaston on the Kennet & Avon Canal near Reading, you can cruise to Theale and back. Along the way, you can stop-off to enjoy lunch at the Spring Inn, a 10-minute walk from the canal. The total journey takes just over four hours and passes through two locks each way.

*Day boat ‘Heyday’ can carry up to 8 people. 2025 prices start from £155.

8. Cheshire: Boat through the woodlands of Marbury Country Park to Middlewich

From Anderton Marina, next to the incredible Anderton Boat Lift, you can cruise to Middlewich and back. The journey passes through Marbury Country Park and Marston Flash. There’s a choice of pubs to stop at, including the Broken Cross at Rudheath. The journey to Middlewich and back takes around six hours. There are no locks on this route.

*Day boat ‘Daydream’ can carry up to 12 people. 2025 prices start at £155.

9. Northamptonshire: Navigate through Blisworth Tunnel to Stoke Bruerne Canal Museum

From Gayton on the Grand Union Canal near Northampton, you can navigate to the pretty canal village of Stoke Bruerne. The village is home to the intriguing Canal Museum and waterside café, and a choice of canalside pubs. The route travels through the Blisworth Tunnel, which at 3,076 yards long is the third longest on the canal network. It takes around one and half hours to reach Stoke Bruerne, including 30 minutes to cruise through the tunnel.

*Day boat ‘Day Lark’ can carry up to 12 people. 2025 prices start at £155.

10. Shropshire: Cruise through the Shropshire Lake District to Ellesmere

From Whixall Marina, on the Prees Branch of the Llangollen Canal, you can reach the historic market town of Ellesmere. The journey takes around two-and-a-half hours, cruising through eight miles of beautiful countryside. You’ll pass Lyneal Moss and Colemere Country Park along the way.

*Day boat ‘Julia’ can carry up to 10 people. Weekday hire is £99, weekends & bank holidays £150.

For more information about Drifters’ day boat hire go to https://www.drifters.co.uk/day-boats/

Best spring canal boating breaks

January 14, 2025/in News/by Drifters

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

As you cruise gently along on a narrowboat holiday, you’ll see blossom on the hedges and waterside trees, birds busy rearing their young, spring lambs playing in the fields and bluebells in waterside woodlands.

Here’s a guide to our best spring canal boating breaks for 2025:

1. Drift through the prehistoric Vale of Pewsey

From our boat hire base on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Devizes, it takes around 20 hours, travelling 27 miles through 53 locks to reach the historic town of Hungerford, perfect for a week afloat. Along the way, you’ll travel up the spectacular flight of 29 locks at Caen Hill and cruise through the beautiful Vale of Pewsey. You’ll pass closeby to prehistoric Avebury and along the edge of the ancient Savernake Forest, home to thousands of ‘Ancient’, ‘Veteran’ and ‘Notable’ trees and carpets of bluebells in the spring. Once at Hungerford, there’s a choice of places to eat and drink and antique shops to browse in.

2. Explore the ancient woods at Skipton Castle

On a short break from Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Yorkshire, you can travel to the historic town of Skipton. There you’ll find Skipton Castle with ancient woods bursting with bluebells to see on a canal boat holiday in spring. Skipton’s 900-year old castle is one of the most complete and best preserved medieval castles in England. Its extensive woodlands are home to at least 18 species of trees, and hundreds of flowering plants, including wild orchids and bluebells. The journey to Skipton and back takes around seven hours, travelling 13 miles with no locks.

3. Glide through the Brecon Beacons

Isolated from the main canal network, the beautiful Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal runs through the Brecon Beacons National Park. This route offers canal boat holiday-makers incredible mountain views and wooded sections full of the sound of woodland birds. On a short break from Goytre Wharf, near Abergavenny, you can cruise lock-free to Llangynidr and back, passing the Lion Inn at Govilon and the Bridge End Hotel at Llangattock. On a week’s break, you can travel on to Brecon, passing through Talybont-on-Usk, with walks to the waterfalls at Blaen y Glyn and the popular Star Inn.

4. Boat to Brewood and back

From Gailey on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal, it takes around five hours to reach the historic village of Brewood, perfect for a short break. This historic village with its half-timbered cottages and Georgian houses, offers one of the best spring canal boating breaks. The 13-mile journey, which passes through just one lock, takes you through beautiful stretches of Shropshire countryside, and passes the waterside Anchor Inn at Cross Green. On reaching Brewood, there’s a choice of pubs, restaurants and tea rooms to dine at, including the canalside Bridge Inn.

5. Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal in North Wales, the pretty Eisteddford town of Llangollen on the edge of the Berwyn Mountains can be reached on a short break. You’ll cruise across the awesome 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 arches. On reaching Llangollen, you can moor up in Llangollen Basin and enjoy visiting the town’s independent shops, pubs and restaurants. And visitor attractions such as the Steam Railway and Horseshoe Falls.

6. Visit the old mill town of Hebden Bridge

On a short break from Sowerby Bridge in West Yorkshire, you can travel along the leafy Calder & Hebble Navigation to the old mill town of Hebden Bridge. Cruising through the Calder Valley and climbing through woods, fields and small stone towns, the journey covers seven miles, passes through 10 locks and takes around five-and-a-half hours. Once at Hebden Bridge, you can enjoy an amazing variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. And stunning countryside walks with woods, crags and the Calder running alongside.

7. Cruise through Shakespeare country

From Wootton Wawen, on the Stratford Canal near Henley-in-Arden, it takes around six hours, travelling through 17 locks to reach Stratford-upon-Avon. Travelling through the Warwickshire countryside, you can stop off along the way to visit Mary Arden’s Tudor Farm in the canalside village of Wilmcote, where Shakespeare’s mother grew up. Once in Shakespeare’s Stratford, you can moor up in Bancroft Basin, just a stone’s throw from the Swan Theatre and the town’s many shops, restaurants and museums.

8. Navigate the Cheshire Ring

Starting from Anderton, this epic cruising ring takes you on a 97-mile tour through some of the most beautiful Cheshire countryside. The route passes through 92 locks and takes around 55 hours, taking you through the heart of Manchester and the Peak District via the Ashton, Macclesfield, Peak Forest, Rochdale, Trent & Mersey and Bridgewater canals. Highlights include the spectacular vertical Anderton Boat Lift, also known as ‘The Cathedral of the Canals’, Dunham Massey Hall and its working Elizabethan Mill alongside the Bridgewater Canal, Manchester’s China Town, the Top Lock at Marple on the Peak Forest Canal with fantastic views of the Peak District, and the Cheshire Plain with its heavily locked ‘Heartbreak Hill’. The Cheshire Ring can be done on a 10-day or two week break from Anderton, Bunbury or Acton Bridge.

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.

Visit Stratford on a canal boat holiday

October 7, 2024/in News/by Debbie Ludford

The Little Wandering Wren reviews a holiday on the Stratford Canal

Jenny Littlewood and her crew wanted to visit Stratford on a canal boat holiday.

She took a press trip with Drifters, setting off from our Wootton Wawen base in Warwickshire.

It was their first holiday on a narrowboat. We provide tuition as part of our canal boat hire.

They chose a three-night weekend break aboard our luxury narrowboat Poppy.

In her blog, Jenny describes the journey, which included passing through 17 locks each way. And crossing over the Edstone Aqueduct, the longest aqueduct in England. She also offers some helpful tips for first-time canal boat hirers.

They moored up in Bancroft Basin in the centre of Stratford-upon-Avon, home of Shakespeare.

You can read Jenny’s review here.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in North Wales Top 10 canal boat holidays 2025

Top 10 canal boat holidays for 2025

August 8, 2024/in News/by Drifters

The best boating breaks on Britain’s inland waterways in 2025

To help plan your next boating adventure, we’ve published a guide to our top 10 canal boat holidays for 2025.

With boats travelling at a maximum speed of 4mph, and over 3,000 miles of navigable inland waterways to explore across Britain, canal boat holidays really are the fastest way to slow down.

You can use your canal boat as a floating holiday home to set off on an adventure afloat. From rural retreats to vibrant city centres, there are hundreds of routes and destinations to choose from.

Drifters’ offers over 550 boats for hire from 45 locations across England, Scotland and Wales.

2025 hire prices start at £630 for a short break (three or four nights) on a boat for four, £875 for a week. Tuition is included in our holiday hire price.

There are hundreds of routes and destinations to choose from. :

1. Visit the iconic Piece Hall in Halifax

From Sowerby Bridge, Salterhebble Basin on the Halifax Branch of the Calder & Hebble Navigation is a two mile cruise away. From there, it’s a two mile walk to Piece Hall, one of the most iconic heritage buildings in Britain. Once the centre of the global woollen trade, this monumental Georgian structure has an immense open air piazza. At Piece Hall you’ll find a mix of independent bars, shops and cafes, and a seasonal programme of events.

2. Travel round the Droitwich Ring

At just 21 miles long, the Droitwich Ring is the smallest canal circuit and can be done on a short break from Worcester. The restoration of the Droitwich Canals was completed in 2011, reconnecting them to the Worcester & Birmingham Canal and the River Severn. To complete the circuit, you’ll pass through 33 locks and it takes around 16 cruising hours.

3. Marvel at the Caen Hill Flight at Devizes

The spectacular 16 locks in a row climbing Caen Hill on the Kennet & Avon Canal at Devizes is one of the most impressive sights on the canal network. It’s part of a flight of 29 locks stretching for two miles and raising the canal up by 237ft. The Caen Hill Locks were the final section of the canal to be completed in 1810. And they were one of the final sections to be restored before the re-opening of the Kennet & Avon Canal in 1990. It takes around five hours to go up or down the flight. Canal & River Trust volunteer lock keepers are on hand to help and there are restricted opening hours. Our Devizes boat yard is at the base of the Caen Hill flight and you can also reach it on a short break from Hilperton, Bradford on Avon, Monkton Combe and Bath.

4. Follow the Lime Kiln Trail on the Mon & Brec

Isolated from the main canal network, the beautiful Monmouth & Brecon Canal runs through the Brecon Beacons National Park. The canal is home to a series of historic lime kilns. Stretching 35 miles from Brecon to Cwmbran, this peaceful waterway offers canal boat holiday-makers incredible mountain views. It also offers a fascinating insight into the history of lime production with historic lime kilns to visit Goytre, Gilwern and Llangattock. On a short break from Goytre Wharf, near Abergavenny, you can cruise lock-free to Llangynidr and back. On a week’s break you can continue on the Brecon.

5. See the ancient topiary at Packwood House

From Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal, it’s a seven-mile, 31-lock and 10-hour journey through the Forest of Arden to Lapworth Lock No 6. From there it’s a half-mile walk to the National Trust’s beautiful Tudor manor house Packwood House. Here, according to legend, the famous 350-year old trees in Packwood’s iconic Yew Garden represent Christ’s ‘Sermon on the Mount’.

6. Float across ‘The Stream in the Sky’

From Chirk on the Llangollen Canal, the awesome World Heritage Pontcysyllte Aqueduct can be reached on a short break. Standing at 38 metres high above the Dee Valley, this incredible structure consists of a cast iron trough carried on 19 enormous hollow pillars. With not even a hand rail on the south side of the aqueduct, you’ll literally feel like they are floating above the earth!

7. Discover the story of the Staffordshire Hoard

From Alvechurch on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal near Bromsgrove, it takes five hours to reach Gas Street Basin in the centre of Birmingham. From there, it’s a short walk to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery. There you can see the largest hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold ever found and learn about its warrior history. Hundreds of pieces from the Hoard are on show, along with hands-on displays exploring how these intriguing items were used, before they were buried 1,400 years ago.

8. Cruise the Cheshire Ring for some stunning Pennine views

On a 10-day or two-week break from Anderton on the Trent & Mersey Canal, you can cruise the mighty Cheshire Ring. The journey travels 97 miles, passes through 92 locks and takes around 48 hours. You’ll travel along six different waterways. Highlights include: spectacular views of the Pennines from the Macclesfield Canal; gentle rolling Cheshire countryside on the Trent & Mersey Canal; and Manchester city centre on the Rochdale Canal.

9. Climb Edinburgh’s extinct volcano for stunning views of the city

From Falkirk, on a four-night or week-long break you can travel through the Scottish Lowlands to Edinburgh and back. The journey starts with trip through the iconic Falkirk Wheel, the world’s first and only rotating boat lift. The wheel lifts boats 100ft from the Forth & Clyde Canal to the Union Canal above. The 32-mile journey along the Union Canal to Edinburgh passes through three locks and takes around 11 hours. Once at there, you can moor up at Edinburgh Quay, and walk through Holyrood Park to the top of Arthur’s Seat for stunning views of the city below.

10. Pass through Blisworth Tunnel to reach the Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne

On a week’s break Stockton on the Grand Union Canal in Warwickshire, you can cruise through the countryside to Stoke Bruerne. The journey will include passing through the 2,813-metre long Blisworth Tunnel, the third longest on the network. Once in Stoke Bruerne, you can enjoy a choice of canalside pubs and woodland walks. And browsing the intriguing waterway history collections at the Canal & River Trust’s Canal Museum. The journey to Stoke Bruerne and back travels 57 miles, passing through 32 locks and takes around 24 hours.

Visit the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford upon Avon on a canal boat holiday

Culture on the canals

June 24, 2024/in News/by Drifters

Enjoy culture on the canals on your next narrowboat holiday.

There are dozens of fantastic art and historic centres on or very close to Britain’s 3,000 mile canal and river network.

We’ve put together a list of our top seven cultural destinations:

1. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford

From Wootton Wawen on the Stratford Canal near Henley-in-Arden, it’s a six-hour cruise through the Warwickshire countryside to Stratford-on-Avon. There you can moor up at Bancroft Basin, a stone’s throw from the world-famous Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

2. The David Hockney Gallery at Saltaire

You can reach UNESCO World Heritage Saltaire on a short break from Silsden on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. Saltaire was founded on the banks of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal near Bradford in 1851 by Sir Titus Salt, a leading industrialist in the woollen industry. Salts Mill has a number of galleries, including the David Hockney Gallery showing both permanent and temporary collections of the Bradford-born artist’s work.

3. The Theatre Royal in Bath

From Bradford on Avon it’s a six-hour cruise along the Kennet & Avon Canal to moorings at Sydney Wharf. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to UNESCO World Heritage Bath city centre. Over 200 years old, Bath’s beautiful Georgian Theatre Royal is one of the country’s best-loved. And it’s one of the best places to enjoy culture on the canals.

4. The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford

From our Lower Heyford on the Oxford Canal, it’s an eight-hour cruise to moorings in Oxford City Centre, close to the Ashmolean Museum. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean was Britain’s first public museum and is home to the University of Oxford’s world-class collections of art and archaeology. It has a series of permanent exhibition galleries, including a fascinating and significant collection of Ancient Egyptian artefacts. The route from Lower Heyford to Oxford travels nearly 15 miles and passes through 10 locks.

5. Shugborough Hall in Staffordshire

From Great Haywood on the Trent & Mersey Canal near Stafford, it’s a short cruise or walk to the National Trust’s beautiful Shugborough Estate. Set in 900 acres of stunning parkland and riverside gardens, it is a rare survival of a complete estate. Major buildings include the Georgian Mansion House, servants’ quarters, model farm and walled garden. Visitors can explore the Mansion’s state rooms and private apartments of the Earls of Lichfield. And see costumed characters in the servant’s quarters and farmstead make cheese, beer and bread.

6. The Hepworth Wakefield Museum

On a week’s break from Sowerby Bridge, you can reach moorings alongside the Hepworth Wakefield museum. This modern gallery on the banks of the Calder & Hebble Navigation 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.

7. Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

On a short break from Alvechurch, you can cruise along the Worcester & Birmingham into Birmingham City Centre. From Alvechurch it takes about five hours to reach moorings in Gas Street Basin. From there you can walk to the Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, housed in a stunning Grade II* listed landmark building. The Museum opened in 1885 and is home to one of the biggest collections of Pre-Raphaelite art in the world.