Take a Luxury Canal Cruising Holiday with Bywater Holiday Cruises!

A Bywater Canal Cruising Holiday Route Descriptions

Cruise no. 1 - Banbury to Tring – Monday 10th May – 8 nights
84 miles, 22 narrow locks, 45 wide locks, 2 tunnels of 3 miles in total,
South Oxford Canal and summit level, Cropredy, Grand Union Canal, Braunston Junction
& Tunnel, Blisworth Tunnel, National Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne, Marsworth
Locks

Leaving the medieval market town of Banbury and Tooleys historic boatyard we head north. We pass through the medieval village of Cropredy before we climb the flight at Claydon to the canals summit. Following a meandering course along the contours of the land, so typical of an early canal, we are surrounded by beautiful rolling farmland and have views of Napton windmill for several miles on our meandering route. Below the locks at Napton we cruise a wide section of The Oxford Canal used by the Grand Union as a link to Braunston, arguably the spiritual home of canal boating. From here we lock up Braunston flight, the first broad locks of this cruise and immediately enter Braunston Tunnel, 2042yds and about 30mins long. Emerging into wooded countryside, we then descend the flight of 7 locks at Long Buckby. Accompanied by Motorway, Railway and Roman road for a few miles this valley was a natural route to London. Passing through the village of Weedon we cross the River Nene and enter an agricultural landscape. Blisworth tunnel is 3057yds long, the 3rd longest canal tunnel in Britain. Exiting brings us to the National Waterways Museum at Stoke Bruerne before we continue down the flight of locks here and out into open fields. At Wolverton we cross an iron trunk aqueduct that replaced nine locks before we wind our way through Milton Keynes. On the other side of this new town we lock up three locks at Soulbury and continue, accompanied with fine views and intermittent locks, along the Ouzel Valley. The Canal divides the twinned towns of Leighton Buzzard and Linslade before several more intermittent locks bring us through open grassland. We cruise quiet countryside for several miles before we pass the junction with the Aylesbury Arm. We have lovely views of The Chilterns as we cruise up the flight of 7 locks at Marsworth, climbing alongside a reservoir to the junction of The Wendover Arm and our final mooring, next to Tring Station.

This cruise has plenty of locks to give enthusiastic walkers or helpers enough to keep them busy! A glimpse of rural England at it’s blossoming best in Spring.

Railway Station – Arrival – Banbury (2 min walk) -Departure – Tring (2 min walk)
Parking - available at Banbury & Tring rail stations

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Starting from the 3 mile summit level at Tring we head North through a long wooded cutting and quickly encounter our first locks, the 7 at Marsworth, winding down past reservoirs with good views of the Chilterns. Moving on through quiet grassland and intermittent locks we reach the picturesque market town of Leighton Buzzard. Beyond, we enter the Ouzel Valley with its steep sides and fine views over the valley. The canal descends down the three Soulbury locks before running through Milton Keynes. At Wolverton we cross an iron trunk aqueduct that replaced nine locks and move through open fields till we ascend the locks at Stoke Bruerne where The National Waterways museum provides an interesting interlude in our journey before we plunge into the darkness of Britain’s 3rd longest canal tunnel, the 3057yds of Blisworth. After about 30mins we emerge on the other side into an agricultural landscape. We cross the River Nene and pass through the village of Weedon and for a few miles are accompanied along the valley by motorway, railway and roman road on what was a natural route to London. At Long Buckby we rise 7 locks into wooded countryside before cruising through another long tunnel at Braunston. This canal town is arguably the spiritual home of canal boating, having had many a historic cruise begin here. At Braunston Turn we continue on the Grand Union to Napton Junction and Calcutt locks beyond. The scenic flight at Stockton beings us down past a number of restored working boats and out to Bascote staircase lock. Beyond there are intermittent locks spread through lush countryside to bring us towards the spa town of Royal Leamington Spa and Warwick beyond.

This cruise has plenty of locks to give enthusiastic walkers or helpers enough to keep them busy as well as rural scenery in between! A glimpse of rural England at it’s blossoming best in Spring.

Railway Station – Arrival – Tring (2 min walk)  Departure – Warwick (5 min by car)
Parking – available at Warwick

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We leave Warwick and make our way towards Leamington Spa. This canal is wide and a good depth and we make good speed as we rise up through the Foss locks crossing under the Roman road. Stockton & Calcutt locks bring us up to the level which takes us all the way through Braunston and peaceful countryside to Hill Morton on The North Oxford Canal. We descend swiftly down Hill Morton’s paired locks before travelling along a straightened section of canal which takes us through Rugby winding its way towards Newbold Tunnel on the outskirts. Here you can see the occasional old iron bridge which marks the original route of the canal, before we reach Hawkesbury Junction, otherwise known as Sutton Stop. A quick pint in the Greyhound pub before we turn under the fine black and white iron bridge and travel up The Coventry Canal towards Atherstone. The canal travels past old quarry’s, some used as far back as Roman times, which have now been transformed into nature reserves and at Harts Hill we have magnificent views across the Anker valley. The flight of locks at Atherstone ease our passage with their original hooks which allow us to use a block to get the butty moving out of the locks and at least one working side pound. At Fazeley junction we turn and head through quiet and attractive open farmland. Flooded gravel pits have attracted much wildlife before we finally reach the outskirts of Birmingham. Through Salford and Bordesley junctions we then head back out of Birmingham on The Grand Union Canal which takes us down towards Knowle. Our final obstacle before we reach Warwick is the flight of 21 at Hatton with views over the castle and city of Warwick from the top and a swift descent through its wide locks.

This cruise has the convenience of being a single centre route with secure car parking
facilities. It also has lots of interest and variation with wide and narrow locks, paired
locks; Industrial Birmingham contrasted with beautiful Warwickshire countryside.

Railway Station – Arrival – Warwick (5 min by car) Departure – Warwick (5 min by car)
Parking – available at Warwick

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Leaving our secluded mooring in the Saltersford Arm we depart Warwick after breakfast and immediately begin our ascent of the 21 locks of Hatton. We travel swiftly up these wide locks through lush greenery and from the top we have super views back over Warwick and the county below. Beyond the flight we pass through Shrewley tunnel, one of the damper tunnels on the canal network and a few miles beyond we turn onto the Stratford Canal, at Kingswood Junction. This canal stands out being full of character with it’s cast iron aqueducts, barrel roofed cottages, split bridges and pretty scenery. Frequent locks as well as the flights at Lapworth and Wilmcote bring us down into the Avon valley through the Forest of Arden and although a helping hand is always welcome, you are free to sit back and enjoy the scenery, or walking between locks provides good opportunities to stretch your legs. Our final destination is Bancroft Basin in the heart of historic Stratford and overlooked by the Royal Shakespeare Company Theatre we come to journeys end.

This cruise is a great choice for those wanting a shorter break with easy travel. There is
beautiful walking and a lot of locks for the length of cruise on a canal full of charm and
character. There is also the opportunity for a bit of culture if you would like an evening
at The Royal Shakespeare Theatre to end your cruise.

Railway station – Arrival Warwick (5 min by car) Departure – Stratford on Avon (10min walk or 5 min by taxi)
Parking – available at Warwick.

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Having soaked up the atmosphere of Stratford we travel up this characterful narrow canal with its cast iron aqueducts, barrel roofed cottages and pretty scenery. Frequent locks bring us up and out of the Avon valley through Wilmcote and Lapworth. A helping hand is always welcome but never expected and you are welcome to sit back and enjoy the scenery as we climb or walking between the locks provides good opportunities to stretch your legs. We pass through a lift bridge at Shirley and meander closer to England’s second city eventually reaching the guillotine lock, built to protect the waters of one canal company from those of the other, but no longer in use. This marks our arrival onto the Birmingham and Worcester Canal, a waterway filled with tunnels and locks. We turn left here and skirt away from Birmingham before the first feature we come across is Wasthills tunnel, a 2726yd long tunnel that brings us out into open countryside. This is then closely followed by Shortwood and Tardebigge tunnels before reaching the top of the 30 locks of Tardebigge. As we make our way down the flight we have good views out over Worcestershire below. A short breather before we have the six locks of Stoke and then the seven of Astwood and we find ourselves 300ft lower in just five miles. We pass coppices, woods and farmland, skirting the town of Droitwich and the junction with the old Droitwich Canal. A flat open section of land brings us to the last tunnel of this cruise, Dunhampstead, where we emerge into a wooded cutting. We then lock down the flight of six at Offerton before making our final descent into Worcester, the towns skyline dominated by the large tower of the cathedral.

This cruise has lots of canal features for enthusiasts and enough locks to keep any lock lover happy. Both canals are full of character, interest and picturesque scenery!

Railway station – Arrival – Stratford on Avon (10min walk or 5 min by car) Departure – Worcester (5 min by car)

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Leaving Diglis basin we lock down onto the River Severn, and head upstream past Worcester Cathedral, the cricket ground, the race course and under a fine stone arched bridge, which connects the two halves of the city. After several miles and a couple of large river locks we rejoin the canals at Stourport, and lock back up through the historic basin, which still retains several interesting features such as the clock tower, workshops and the Tontine hotel. We swiftly pass through Kidderminster and having risen up through two locks find ourselves on a beautiful winding path through constricted and rocky sections where the canal was literally cut out of the rock and green foliage hangs off the encroaching cliffs over the canal creating beautiful dappled effects in sunny weather. These secluded surroundings continue into Staffordshire as the valley narrows again beyond Cookley tunnel and on towards Kinver. The stunning scenery continues as we pass the junction with the Stourbridge Canal and continue northwards, winding our way through pretty and remote countryside. The staircase locks at Botterham mark the beginning of Wombourne where we make our way up the delightful triple staircase The Bratch. Flat farmland surrounds us now for several miles until we reach the edge of Wolverhampton, which barely encroaches on the canal which remains surprisingly secluded. Turning left at Autherly junction we arrive on The Shropshire Union Canal a delightfully rural waterway which is characterised along its route by the alternating cuttings and embankments which enable it to maintain it’s relatively straight and lock free course to Market Drayton. The flight of 5 locks at Tyrley brings us down into rocky cuttings and narrow sections before we descend the longer flight through the pretty Cheshire town of Audlem. The last stretch of our journey is through open fertile farmland before we arrive in Nantwich on a raised embankment which overlooks the town a few minutes walk away.

This route is full of individual character and charm, with deep wooded cuttings, long open embankments and rocky overhangs there are many stand out features on this picturesque route.

Railway Station – Arrival – Worcester (5 min by car) Departure – Nantwich (5 min by car) or Crewe (15 min by car)
Parking - is available at Nantwich

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Cruise no. 7

We leave Nantwich basin for a short boat through flat Cheshire countryside and ascend the flight of four locks of Hurleston to arrive on The Llangollen. We cruise through farmland, and infrequent locks and liftbridges to the flight at Grindley Brook and its steep three lock staircase where the lockkeepers ensure the smooth flow of traffic. We pass through gentle countryside, and wooden lift bridges, of a design more typical in Holland. We cruise alongside Whixall Moss, Britains 3rd largest upland bog and have pretty views out across Shropshires Lake District before mooring in the adorable small town of Ellesmere. Beyond we cruise along sections of canal with views far out over rural farmland and pass the staircase lock at Frankton and the junction with The Montgomery Canal. North of here we pass through the last locks at New Martin. The aqueduct at Chirk marks the beginning of some spectacular scenery and our last entry, of many, into Wales. Through the long Chirk Tunnel we eventually reach the climax of this cruise. The famous landmark of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands 120ft and crosses the expanse of the Dee Valley to lead us up the pretty, narrow and shallow stretch along the side of the valley to the tourist town of Llangollen itself. There is time to explore, maybe take a trip on the steam railway or sit and enjoy a drink looking out over the white waters of the Dee river.

The Llangollen certainly has the wow factor and is ideal for anyone’s first canal, or even to do again and again. It is an ideal choice for those wanting to walk or wander the towpath as much as it is for those who like to stay on board.

Railway station – Arrival – Nantwich (5 min by car) or Crewe (15 min by car) Departure – Ruabon (15 min by car/bus)
Parking – is available at Nantwich or Llangollen

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Our first morning is spent making our way along the sides of the Dee Valley, down the narrow and shallow upper stretch of this canal. We eventually arrive at Trefor Basin and turn to cross The Pontcysylte Aqueduct. 120ft above the Valley floor on what is possibly Telfords finest piece of Engineering. Continuing along the other side of the Valley before crossing the watershed into the Cerriog valley through Whitehouse tunnel and then the long dark Chirk tunnel. Chirk aqueduct runs parallel to the arches of the viaduct and is our first crossing of the Welsh Border into England. New Martin signals the first locks of this cruise and through the softer contours of England we progress down to Frankton where we join the Montgomery Canal to enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this completely rural canal. There are strict limits on the number of boats allowed into this area to ensure the local array of flora and fauna are not disturbed. We can explore the newly opened section of this canal on foot, beyond Maesbury which takes us to within just a few hundred yards of the welsh border and the unrestored miles to Welshpool. We work our way back up to the Llangollen main line and cruise to the small town of Ellesmere and past the meres, formed in the ice age which fringe the canals route. From here we pass through the upland bog of Whixall Moss before passing through several lift bridges of a design more commonly seen in Holland. Gentle, rolling countryside brings us to the triple staircase lock at Grindley Brook with its canal side shop. From here we descend for the last part of the Llangollen Canal through flat Cheshire farmland to Hurleston junction. Here we turn right onto the wider course of The Shropshire Union and travel the short distance to Nantwich.

The Llangollen has it all and this cruise includes one of our favourites, the beautifully secluded Montgomery Canal. This is a great choice for anyone, walkers and watchers
alike.

Railway Station – Arrival – Ruabon (15 min by car or bus) Departure – Nantwich (5 min by car) or Crewe (15 min by car)
Parking – is available at Llangollen or Nantwich

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Setting off from Nantwich we travel north on the Shropshire Union, through rich Cheshire farmland, past the junctions with the Llangollen and the Middlewich Branch. While we negotiate the locks at Bunbury Staircase, excellent views of Beeston Castle and the somewhat younger Peckforton Castle glide into view. We carry on along the fertile Cheshire plains and soon the chimneys of Chester can be viewed. We shall give you ample time to explore the history and relics of this Roman town or the delights of its unique shopping streets, before continuing northwards. Northgate staircase locks are
hewn out of solid rock alongside the castle walls and brings us down to a long lock free pound which takes us towards The River Mersey, through open Wirral countryside weaving our way. We have scheduled in time to explore the sprawling museum site at Ellesmere Port which sits at the junction with The Manchester Ship Canal and has views
out onto The Mersey Estuary. We moor overnight in the secure heart of the Museum before we turn and retrace our steps back down to Chester. An opportunity to take in the delights of the Elizabethan market town of Nantwich, the Roman walled city of Chester and the National Waterways museum at Ellesmere Port.

Railway station – Arrival – Nantwich (5 min by car) or Crewe (15 min by car) Departure – Chester (15 min walk or 5 min by car)
Parking – is available at Nantwich

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From our mooring below the city walls we depart and five wide locks bring us through the suburbs of Chester before we emerge into Cheshire countryside with views of Beeston Castle, ahead, un-missable on its rocky outcrop. There is such pretty scenery as we rise through the five infrequent locks before Bunbury staircase and our last stretch of wide canal before turning on to the Middlewich branch at Barbridge. Four infrequent locks bring us through quiet and remote countryside on this much underrated link canal to the Trent and Mersey. The canal crosses the River Weaver by aqueduct and offers superb views over the river and of Winsford Top Flash. At Middlewich itself we join the Trent and Mersey and cruise north, following the delightful valley of The River Dane. We cruise through what used to be an industrial landscape and is now surprisingly scenic. Salt mining dominated this area for centuries and is the reason for the canal’s and Northwich’s development. Open flashes are scattered along the canal at points and this pretty section continues until we arrive at the top of the Anderton lift ready for our booked time to descend the 50ft to The River Weaver. Known as The Cathedral of the Canals this wrought iron feat of engineering was built in 1875 to connect the Canal to the Weaver Navigation and is a ‘must see’ for any canal enthusiast. Once on the weaver we can fully appreciate the amazing structure and we have the remaining time of this cruise to explore this waterway between Frodsham and Winsford. The steep, wooded valley sides provide for some beautiful scenery, particularly along the Vale Royal Cut and through The Belt, a wonderfully peaceful section where no roads or houses intrude on the secluded rural setting. Our final mooring is in view of Town bridge at Northwich.

This is a wonderfully rural cruise through very pleasant Cheshire countryside, flashes & wildlife havens with good towpaths and lovely scenery throughout. The obvious highlight has to be The Cathedral of The Canals.

Railway station – Arrival – Chester (15 min walk or 5 min by car) Departure – Northwich (15 min walk or 5 min by car)
Parking – available near Northwich

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Starting on the River Weaver we begin our cruise in view of the impressive black and white structure of the town swing bridge rarely opened these days. We cruise downstream through a nature park before the towering stature of the Anderton Lift comes into view and we ascend 50ft in the lift to the Trent and Mersey above. Turning north we travel through 3 tunnels in 7 miles before emerging through Preston Brook tunnel onto The Bridgewater Canal. The first canal in England, the Bridgewater is one of the longest lock free stretches of canal on the network. Rural to begin with this canal offers fine views of The Penines and passes through pretty villages before entering Manchester.
Mooring overnight at Castle Quay gives a secure position in the centre of the city before we descend the 9 wide locks of The Rochdale Canal before The Ashton Canal that takes us up out of Manchester via 18 narrow locks. At Duckinfield Junction we join the Huddersfield Canal. Winding through woods the canal ascends through frequent but irregular placed locks rising up The Penines. Impressive Mills line the canal many of which are now, sadly, decaying. After 32 locks we reach the longest tunnel on the canal system. Standedge Tunnel is 5686yrds long and consists of several different materials and construction. It is in places, literally, cut out of the rock and pierces through the Pennines Peaks to the other side. It is sobering to think of the men who worked to build such an impressive waterway. On the other side we are met with a further 41 locks which take us down towards the Colne Valley, through tree lined hills and pretty stone bridges to Huddersfield.

Please note – British Waterways require that all persons cruising through Standedge Tunnel must be able enough to climb off the boats unaided in the very unlikely event of an emergency evacuation of the tunnel. There is the option of travelling overland and meeting the boats on the other side, if agility is an issue.

A rare feature on hotelboat schedules - this includes Standedge Tunnel, is just 1 shy of 100 locks and includes the famous Anderton Lift. Definitely one for the enthusiast!

Railway station – Arrival – Northwich (15 min walk or 5 min by car) Departure – Huddersfield
Parking – available near Northwich

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Leaving Huddersfield we pass under 2 factory tunnels and up several locks into attractive tree lined glades with pretty stone bridges. Rising up from a broad valley bottom we pass the remains of textile mills, through the pretty village of Slaithwaite. As we climb the regular locks we pass near Sparth reservoir and the infant river of Colne winds, not too far away. Standedge Tunnel takes us through the peak of The Penines and at 5686yrds long is the longest tunnel on the canal network. It consists of several different materials and construction and is in places, literally, cut out of the rock. It is sobering to think of the men who worked to build such an impressive waterway. On the other side we begin our descent through pretty villages such as Diggle and Dobcross, described as ‘quintessentially Pennine’. We navigate our way through Stalybridge and turn onto the Peak Forest Canal and begin a rare lock free stretch of canal to the 16 locks at Marple which bring us up to the side of the Goyt valley and takes us towards Whaley Bridge with beautiful views across the valley. Before ending the cruise we have time to boat into and explore Bugsworth Basin, the old transhipment terminus, carefully restored and beautifully atmospheric with it’s many alcoves and wharves.

Please note – British Waterways require that all persons cruising through Standedge Tunnel must be able enough to climb off the boats unaided in the very unlikely event of an emergency evacuation of the tunnel. There is the option of travelling overland and meeting the boats on the other side, if agility is an issue.

The Pennines and the Peak District, in one cruise. Begin and end with stunning scenery and the perfect opportunity to explore more both before and after your cruise.

Railway station – Arrival – Huddersfield - Departure – Whaley Bridge (2 min walk)

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Leaving Whaley Bridge on our first evening we moor in the atmospheric Bugwsworth Basin, the old canal/tramway interchange, recently restored. Travelling down the upper Peak Forest Canal, we cling to the steep wooded sides of the Goyt Valley and are offered magnificent views of the surrounding Peak District. At the top of the flight of 16 locks at Marple we join The Macclesfield Canal which brings more striking scenery. Whilst negotiating the beautiful locks at Bosley we can see the great hill that overlooks us, known as ‘the cloud’ and beyond here the timber framed Moreton Hall and the Victorian folly of Mow Cop. Crossing the Trent and Mersey by aqueduct and then joining it we soon enter the 3000yrd darkness of Harecastle Tunnel. We emerge and immediately enter ‘The Potteries’. We turn at the junction with the Caldon Canal and begin our ascent through Etruria Staircase locks and out of Stoke past old Bottle Kilns and new development. Beyond Milton we emerge into rolling countryside and climb the 5 locks of Stockton Brook which bring us into lovely pleasant farmland. At Hazelhurst junction the canal splits and we descend the 3 locks here and cruise to Cheddleton and past the old flint mill. 2 locks here and a further 3 attractive and isolated locks bring us to the valley floor and we cruise alongside and eventually on The River Churnet. The scenery of this section is stunning and unspoilt with thickly wooded valley sides encroaching to the canal. The Churnet Valley Steam Railway should be running as we boat on Wednesday and our journey along this beautiful valley is accompanied by the wonderful sound of the steam whistle. We boat just beyond Consall Forge to Flint Lock, parallel with the railway, cruising underneath the platform at one point. We must turn in the last 70ft winding hole, just 1 mile shy of the terminus at Froghall. We rise back up the locks along this branch and at Hazelhurst junction turn onto The Leek Branch which offers another stunning and secluded canal as we see the Churnet Valley from higher up. As we emerge from Leek Tunnel we are surrounded by rolling countryside and some of the best scenery of the network. From here we must turn and make our way back along the canal into Stoke and our mooring outside the Etruria Museum.

This cruise is perfect for keen walkers, wanderers and scenery lovers alike with frequent places to get on and off and the opportunity to spend some time enjoying the Peak District before or after.

Railway station – Arrival – Whaley Bridge (2 min walk) Departure – Stoke (short taxi ride)
Parking - available at Stone – a short bus/train/taxi ride away from Stoke

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 From our mooring outside The Etruria Industrial Museum we set off up the staircase locks of Etruria and out of Stoke past old Bottle Kilns and new development. Beyond Milton we emerge into rolling countryside and climb the 5 locks of Stockton Brook which brings us into lovely pleasant farmland. At Hazelhurst junction the canal splits and we descend the 3 locks here and cruise to Cheddleton and past the old flint mill. 2 locks here and a further 3 attractive and isolated locks bring us to the valley floor and we cruise alongside and eventually on The River Churnet. The scenery of this section is stunning and unspoilt with thickly wooded valley sides encroaching to the canal. The Churnet Valley Steam Railway runs alongside the canal and river and at Consall Forge we travel underneath the railway platform for a short distance before we must turn in the last 70ft winding hole at Flint Lock, just 1 mile shy of the terminus at Froghall. We rise back up the locks along this branch and at Hazelhurst junction turn onto The Leek Branch which offers another stunning and secluded canal as we see the Churnet Valley from higher up. As we emerge from Leek Tunnel we are surrounded by rolling countryside and some of the best scenery of the network. From here we must turn and make our way back along the canal into Stoke and our mooring outside the Etruria Museum.

The Caldon Canal is just too good so we decided to do it again! This 4 night break would be ideal for the more time strapped or those keen on a one centre holiday. The location and scenery are again ideal for the keen rambler, ambler or nature lover.

Railway station – Arrival – Stoke (short taxi ride) Departure – Stoke (short taxi ride)
Parking - available at Stone – a short bus/train/taxi ride away from Stoke.

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Leaving Etruria and our mooring outside the industrial museum we immediately lock down and begin making our way out of Stoke. We pass various relics of the pottery industry, most notably the large bottle kilns lining the side of the canal, before emerging out into greenery and countryside. This stretch to Stone takes us through 14 locks, all downhill. Beyond Stone we travel with The River Trent, winding it’s own course, never far away. We soon reach Haywood and Shugbourough Hall, now owned by the National Trust. We make our way past Cannock Chase, an ancient Norman hunting ground, and if we are lucky, see fallow dear who have grazed this area for centuries. The Town of Rugeley is encountered, with its power station dominating the landscape for several miles. We soon enter quiet countryside heading towards Fradley Junction, an interesting place, set among woods with a famous pub and a boatyard with many interesting boats. Here we turn onto The Coventry Canal passing through flat and open countryside. After several miles a stone marks the point at which the Coventry Canal becomes The Birmingham and Fazely Canal and we follow the course of The River Tame very closely past a delightful wooded stretch. From our vantage point on a side cut embankment we have good views of Tamworth to the east before we pass through it. Passing through a post-industrial landscape where old gravel pits have been filled with water and turned into Nature Reserves. There is a heavily locked section of canal as we pass through the pleasant town of Atherston, climbing a flight of 11. We now enter open rolling country backed by thick woods to the west and, for a time, return to a quarry belt before Nuneaton. Here we turn onto The Ashby Canal and are once again surrounded by farmland and rural isolation for the final 7 miles to the small town of Hinckley.

For its course through the East Midlands this cruise is surprisingly scenic. Staffordshire
countryside, spectacular views over The Tame Valley and pretty locks at Atherstone; The Coventry canal is probably one of the most underrated on the system.

Railway station – Arrival – Stoke (short taxi ride) Departure – Atherstone or Hinckley or Nuneaton (all around 7-8 miles)
Parking - available at Stone – a short bus/train/taxi ride away from Stoke.

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The Ashby Canal, winds its way through remote rural countryside along a 300ft contour, making this canal entirely lock free. Heading north we pass close to the Battle of Bosworth Field, where Richard III was killed by Henry Tudor and the canal is accompanied by the preserved Battlefield Railway Line, which has old steam and diesel locomotives on some days of the summer. The small farming villages of Shackerstone and Snarestone are before the canals terminus and turning back on ourselves, we make our way to The Coventry Canal and having skirted the town of Bedworth in a long cutting we soon reach Hawkesbury junction. Otherwise known as Sutton Stop after the first toll clerk to work here there is a fine country pub and the shallow stop lock marks our entry to The Oxford Canal. Travelling South East through farmland we pass the villages of Anstey and Brinklow along shortened lengths of canal, following an 1829 rerouting to improve efficiency. The occasional elegant iron bridge marks the old route. Open rolling fields take us up to Newbold Tunnel and we make our way around the edge of Rugby on the hill over the town. Peaceful countryside brings us to the canal town of
Braunston and the junction with The Grand Union. Often considered the spiritual heart of the canals this was once a thriving trade point and canal community. We stay on The Oxford Canal and begin our ascent to the summit up the flight of nine locks at Napton. On the summit the canal meanders its way across the rolling countryside with views of the Napton windmill. Eventually the canal submits to the landscape and drops down the five locks at Claydon and on to the pretty village of Cropredy before arriving in the centre of Banbury and our mooring alongside the railway station.

The isolated Ashby Canal and winding Oxford Canal take us through the heart of England’s gentle, rolling countryside as the summer draws to a close and the harvest is well under way.

Railway station – Arrival – Atherstone, Hinckley or Nuneaton (all around 7-8 miles) Departure – Banbury (2 min walk)
Parking – available at Banbury.

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Cruising from the historic market town of Banbury we head through open farmland and quiet Cotswold countryside. An early canal which twists and turns it gives many opportunities for walking or helping us through the intermittent locks. Upon reaching Duke’s cut just short of Oxford we drop down onto the Thames and leave the dreaming spires in the distance, travelling upstream through ‘wind in the willows’ country. The river winds its way through farmland and reed lined banks, avoiding built up areas. The low bridge of Osney island in Oxford ensures only low, small boats can navigate this part of the river and it is extremely quiet and peaceful. If you are keen eyed you may even be lucky enough to spot the otters which have recently been re-introduced to this area. Having reached Lechlade, the furthest navigable point of the river, we turn and retrace our steps, seeing the scenery afresh and giving ourselves a second chance to spot those elusive otters. Carried swiftly downstream we arrive back in the heart of Oxford, giving you a chance to explore this most famous of cities. The Upper Thames is truly beautiful. quiet, winding, scenic, untouched and wild.

Railway Station – Arrival – Banbury (2 min walk) Departure – Oxford (2 min walk)
Parking – is available at Banbury station

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We soon leave the urban areas of Reading after cruising through the heart of the newly redeveloped shopping centre where the canal takes centre stage. Beyond the city we can take in the varied scenery of woodland and water meadows as the waterway switches between canal cuts and meandering river. There are frequent swing bridges, some rural and others electric where roads cross the waterway. The locks are infrequent and vary in dimensions and appearance making each one of unique interest and the towpath on this stretch to Newbury provides many opportunities for a gentle stroll. Leaving Newbury behind us, we move quickly into water meadows and woodland. Frequent locks bring us steadily up to higher ground over the course of a day, making this a good day for walking. Travelling through the Vale of Pewsey the River Kennet is never far away and several of southern England’s most picturesque villages can be explored. Past wooded ridges and a hill fort we lock up Crofton locks past the historic beam pumping engine, built to pump water up to the canals summit level before entering Bruce tunnel. A long lock free section and a night moored in Devizes gives us time to rest before tackling the 29 locks of the Caen Hill flight where we descend 230ft in just 2 miles. The largest flight on the system, it not only keeps the crew busy, but offers up some superb views over the surrounding area and down the flight itself. We travel past many attractive villages overlooking the canal before arriving at the architecturally rich, but compact town of Bradford-on-Avon. The canal follows the Avon valley, clinging high to the valley sides and occasionally crosses the rivers course high on two aqueducts. The old stone feature of Dundas aqueduct is best explored off the boat as the view of the valley is limited by it’s high walls. At Dundas Wharf we see the junction with the Somersetshire Coal Canal before turning and heading finally towards the spires of Bath and the stunning Georgian architecture of this spa town.

This cruise gives a full overview of the varying character of the entire Kennet & Avon navigation and canal, from modern Reading to majestic Bath through winding river courses and ambitious canal cuts. A great cruise for anybody.

Railway station – Arrival – Reading (15 min walk, short taxi ride) Departure – Bath (10 min walk, short taxi ride)
Parking – is available at Newbury

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The Kennet and Avon canal leaves the Roman spa town of Bath, with its beautiful limestone buildings and bustling centre, crossing the River Avon over two grand aqueducts made of the local limestone, to reach the architecturally rich town of Bradford-on-Avon with its array of tea rooms and boutique shops. Past here there are many attractive villages overlooking the canal before we arrive at the bottom of the Caen hill flight. Covering just 2 miles over several hours, we rise up 230ft to the top and there are great views over the area and a real sense of achievement, knowing the longest flight on the canal system is done. There is then a long lock free section which takes us through the charming village of Honey Street before the 4 locks at Wooton Rivers bring us up to the canals short summit pound. Bruce Tunnel and just 2 miles lie before we descend the flight at Crofton locks, past the old beam pumping engine, once used to pump water to the summit level of this canal but now only in stem a few days a year for enthusiasts. We have views of the river Kennet for much of this journey as we travel through the vale of Pewsey and there are many picturesque villages on our route, including Great & Little Bedwyn and Hungerford. Around Kintbury we will pass the horsedrawn trip boat that still plies this course, one of only 5 remaining in the UK. Our final day gives us regular locks and a good day for walking as we approach the town of Newbury. A favourite canal with many of our guests, The Kennet & Avon takes us through some of Southern England’s finest scenery and prettiest villages. There are many highlights on this cruise, much to explore and a great choice for anyone.

Railway station – Arrival – Bath (5-10 min walk, short taxi ride) Departure – Newbury (short taxi ride)
Parking – is available at Newbury

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We make our way along the Kennet Navigation out of Newbury taking in the varied scenery of woodland and water meadows as the waterway switches between canal cuts and meandering river. There are frequent swing bridges, some rural and others electric where roads cross the waterway. The locks are infrequent and vary in dimensions and appearance making each one of unique interest and the towpath on this stretch to Reading provides many opportunities for a gentle stroll. We join The Thames at Reading and boat with the current downstream. We soon pass under an 18th Century bridge at Sonning with its Mill situated among the willows. Soon the main course of the river passes numerous islands and skirts Warren Hill before reaching Shiplake. We pass many attractive boat houses and reach the quintessentially English town of Henley on Thames and very soon after Marlow which is a fine example of a Georgian town. We finally enter the town of Windsor, busy with trip boats, rowers and motorboats all taking in the joys of the river under the shadow of the imposing Windsor Castle.

The intimate & picturesque Kennet Navigation with its winding course and frequent locks contrasts significantly with the majestic River Thames cruising through quintessential England.

Railway station – Arrival – Newbury (short taxi ride) Departure – Windsor (5 min walk)
Parking – is available at Newbury

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We commence our journey from our mooring in Windsor, overlooked by the imposing stone walls of Windsor Castle. We travel down the Thames past the great royal Home Park, past Datchet and Old Windsor. Cooper’s Hill stands as backdrop to this section, a richly wooded mound topped with the RAF memorial. At Holm Island stands the London Stone which used to mark the former limit of the jurisdiction of the city of London over the Thames. At Weybridge we join the truly lovely River Wey, which is in the ownership of the National Trust and provides a priceless rural lung and refuge from the busy surrounds of surrey. Heading upstream, we enter into much more rural surroundings passing the imposing Coxes Mill, past Pyrford which is a short walk from the RHS Wisley Gardens. The deserted Priory at Newark can be seen in glimpses from our ascent through one of the pretty locks on this river. At Papercourt lock, there is an idyllic cottage and weir, a perfect picturesque spot. Soon we reach Guildford, a town that makes the most of its river, where the cathedral stands on a hill overlooking the town. Lovely meadowland continues to belie our closeness to suburbia until finally we reach the end of the navigation at Godalming.

A cruise of two very different rivers - from the wider majestic course of Grandfather Thames at Windsor to the more intimate and peaceful course of The River Wey.

Railway station – Arrival – Windsor (5 min walk) Departure – Godalming (10 min walk or short taxi ride)

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Leaving our mooring from Godalming Town Bridge, the limit of the Wey navigation, we pass the gardens of some beautiful smart houses that line the Francombe Bank. This waterway is managed by The National Trust and it’s beauty belies its closeness to suburbia. We soon pass Guns Mouth, the entrance to the Wey & Arun Canal, currently undergoing restoration. The setting on this stretch is flat meadow land and occasional former river mills, before we reach Guildford, a town which makes the most of its river with restaurants, a busy boatyard, handsome mill and theatre all facing the water and overlooked by the castle and on the other side, the Cathedral. Beyond Guildford, at Woodham Junction we turn on to The Basingstoke Canal, managed and maintained by Surrey & Hampshire County Councils. We immediately encounter our first flight of locks, spread along a straight section of canal lined with mature trees. Trees are a feature which persist on this canal, isolating it from much of its surroundings, but at this time of year providing a glorious palette of colour to our journey. On the other side of Woking we work up the 5 locks of St Johns and out into open Surrey countryside. The canal now climbs up the 14 Deepcut locks in a superb tree lined setting that brings us up into the Deepcut cutting, 1000yrds long and 70ft deep. We are now 195ft higher than when we entered the canal at Woodham Junction. Exiting the cutting we turn due South passing more woods and heathland as well as Mychett Lake and the Great Bottom Flash. Beyond Aldershot we pass Eelmoor Flash, an SSSI with an exceptional dragonfly population and cruise through the richly wooded cutting that cuts through Pyestock Hill. Between Chequers and Double Bridge there are pill-boxes left crumbling in the undergrowth We cruise several more winding miles through countryside to the present terminus of the canal at the remains of Odiham Castle before we return to Odiham Wharf.

The beautiful River Wey & Basingstoke Canal in one cruise, as autumn brings a spectacle of russet oranges and burnt reds on the trees that line these scenic waterways.

Railway Station – Arrival – Godalming (10 min walk or 2 min by car) Departure – Hook (10mins by car) or Basingstoke (15-20min by car)
Parking – May be possible at Odiham

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We depart this cruise from our mooring at the Wharf in Odiham and cruise westward to explore to the terminus of this waterway by the remains of Odiham castle. We then turn and begin our journey eastwards along the canal. These first winding miles takes us through open countryside a contrast to the wooded surroundings which mark our course for much of this canal and crumbling pill-boxes can be seen beside the waterway in the undergrowth. At Pyestock Hill the canal takes a cutting through the middle, richly wooded on either side. At Eelmoor Flash there is an exceptional dragonfly population in an area of Special Scientific Interest. Beyond Aldershot we pass the Great Bottom Flash and Mychett Lake and cruise through heathland and yet more woods before emerging through the 100yrd long Deepcut cutting to look down the flight of locks at Deepcut. We begin our descent through these locks which eventually bring us 195ft lower, surrounded by a superb tree lined setting. The 5 locks at St John’s bring us into a more suburban setting as we continue towards Woodham Junction and the end of this cruise at Weybridge.

A long weekend break along The Basingstoke Canal in full autumnal colour. Stunning!

Railway station – Arrival – Hook (2 miles) or Basingstoke (7 miles) Departure – Weybridge (short taxi ride)
Parking - May be possible at Odiham

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