Canal and River Holiday Blog

Leicester Line to re-open following April rainfall

Thu, 17 May 2012 22:59:57 GMT

British Waterways (BW) has announced that, from tomorrow, the Leicester Line of the Grand Union Canal is to be reopened, and some lock opening hours in areas affected by drought lengthened, after reservoir holdings improved over April. In March, BW published details of overnight lock closures at targeted locations in the Midlands and South to conserve water following continued dry weather. However the wettest April on record has helped to improve holdings at a number of reservoirs across the South East enabling many of these measures to be relaxed. The closure of the Leicester Line of the Grand Union Canal, between locks 18 and 38, is to be lifted from Friday 11th May with boats able to navigate between 9.00am and 4.00pm. In addition opening hours at Foxton, Watford, Buckby, Braunston, Calcutt and Stoke Bruerne are to be extended by around two hours. The measures are due to be in place until further notice and will be reviewed after the Diamond Jubilee bank holiday in June. Vince Moran, operations director for British Waterways said, “We’re delighted that reservoir levels have improved to such an extent that boaters can enjoy the full length of the mainline Grand Union Canal once more. We invested a considerable amount of money over the winter to improve water efficiency and this work has enabled the canal network to really benefit from the heavy rainfall that we’ve experienced throughout April.” BW is now encouraging boaters to play their part in making the improved reservoir holdings last throughout the summer by taking a few simple steps such as sharing locks, ensuring paddles are closed after use and opening both gates when entering or leaving locks to avoid damaging their watertight seal. Vince continues; “Whilst the situation looks a lot brighter than it did a few months ago it’s important that we, and the boating community, aren’t complacent. Reservoir holdings traditionally fall over the course of the summer due to drier weather and an increase in boat traffic so it’s important that everyone uses water efficiently to keep things running smoothly right through to the end of the main boating season.” Shortened opening hours are to remain in place for the time being on the Tring Summit as the reservoirs there are closely linked to groundwater levels and have not responded as quickly as others elsewhere on the network. Similarly there will be no change to opening hours on the Oxford Summit partly because holdings in Boddington Reservoir are being held down for engineering reasons. Reservoir holdings will be monitored closely and actions taken when it is appropriate to do so. Read more on the canals of the U.U. at: href="http://www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com">www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

April is the Perfect Time For a Boating Break!

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 03:50:08 GMT

This April enjoy a fun-filled adventure afloat! Whether you fancy some family time together or a well-deserved weekend away with your partner, a boating break is the perfect choice! Relax as you gently cruise along and when you fancy it, moor up, hop on land and explore the local area. Plus we have some great deals so you could save up to £100 off your April boating getaway! Save up to £100 per week and £50 off 3/4 nights - offer applies to selected boats, new bookings only, is subject to availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount except Standard Savers offer where boatyard permits - ask for details of relevant boatyards. Applies to bookings starting from 1st March and completed by 30th April 2012. Read all about it here! Just click through the pages till you get to the Cheshire Ring and Llangollen pages. www.hoseasons.co.uk/Webpages/Promotion/BoatList.aspx?PromotionId=1409

The Privacy of Our Visiyors is Important to us!

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 02:18:40 GMT

Ensuring the privacy of our visitors is respected

The Ashby Canal

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:57:44 GMT

The Ashby Canal , beautiful, rural canal, winding its way, lock free, through beautifull countryside.

Four Counties Ring, beautifull, ever changing canal cruising

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 01:56:28 GMT

Thinking of Cruising the Four Counties Ring?Find all you need to know here.

brochure

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 23:27:29 GMT

great holiday ideas from these brochures

Canal Boat Holidays, top mooring spots, top villages, top pubs

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 10:08:59 GMT

If youn want the best from your canal boat holidays, here are the some of the best mooring spots, best villages, and best pubs to visit.

Thinking of cruising the peak Forest Canal? Check here first!

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 06:48:46 GMT

All you need to know about the lovely Upper peak Forest Canal

Canal Holiday on the Macclesfield, a delight in every way

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 06:40:20 GMT

The Macclesfield Canal Narrowboat holiday, a delight with rural views, aquaducts, lovely villages, bustling towns, and cosy pubs.

The Caldon Canal

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 02:36:16 GMT

The much underrated Caldon has some surprises for the canal traveller!

Have You Seen the "On Britain's Canals" DVD's?

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:32:02 GMT

I had the fortune recently to be sent a series of DVD’s on canal life, called “On Britain’s Canals”, Now had never heard of this set of DVD’s. so was interested to see what they were all about. They turned out to be a pretty enjoyable and very in formidable. There are 6 DVD’s in all, and each one covers a different aspect of life on the waterways. There are interviews with folk who have taken to living full time on the canals, a very good history of the working boats, tips on what to look for if you are intending to live on a boat and tips on boat handling. They would be very useful to anyone thinking of cruising for the first time, as it discusses the day to day routine on a hire boat, mooring tips, and advice on steering. All up I found the DVD’s very enjoyable and well put together. If you want more on the Canals of the U.K., visit: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

gallery of narrowboat pictures

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 00:45:54 GMT

A gallery of narrowboat pictures, places and people on the canals.

Have You Seen The Waterway Routes DVD's?

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:07:29 GMT

I’ve just found the Warterway Routes DVD’s! I can’t remember how I found out about these new series of DVD, but I’m glad I came across them. As I am a real sucker for canal DVD’s, I immediately ordered the Cheshire Ring and Caldon Canal from their impressive website. I was not disappointed; the DVD’s arrived quickly, with a nice letter thanking me for my order. These DVD’s are up to date, and very informative. They have good narrative, and lovely scenes of the canals. The footage is taken from their narrow boat “Waterways Routes” and there are lots of other beautiful narrow boats gliding past the cameras. An added bonus is what comes with the DVD. They include an information booklet, and map, most helpful. My only criticism is they do not often venture in to the towns and villages, as the Video Active crew does. Apart from that, I was very happy with the product. Have you seen a Waterways Routes DVD? Let me know by visiting: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Narrowboating on the Macclesfield Canal..At Last we Got There

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 06:45:17 GMT

It was in 2004 as we were negotiating the rather heavy lock out the front of the Shroppie Fly. A very helpful fellow canal traveler helped us with the lock, and mentioned he had just come from the Macclesfield, and how enjoyable it was. It took us from then, till last May to get there but it was certainly worth it. The Macclesfield has a lot going for it, lovely villages, high embankments, and plenty of rural scenery. And it is handy to the Caldon, meaning we could do them both, and a fair bit of the Trent and Mersey, all in the one trip! Three canals for the price of one! Congleton, the first town along the cut, has good moorings opposite Congleton Wharf. A good variety of pubs, and plenty of shops here, although we couldn’t spend as much time here as we would have liked. Try the Railway Hotel for fab scampi! Also, try mooring just after the swing bridge at Oakgrove. Nice spot and the Fools Nook is as good a canal pub as you will find on the cut. The Bosley Flight locks were pretty tough, but what great scenery. The Macclesfield has some great little villages and towns. Macclesfield itself with its inside market, Heritage Centre and traffic free mall is a great place to explore. And the cozy Dolphin pub is welcoming and open when most others were closed. Bollington is now one of our favorites. There are top moorings on the aqueduct and easy access to the village through the “Hole in the Wall”. Pop in and see Irish Mike at the Holly Bush, in Palmerston Street, then take a stroll down to the Vale, hidden away in Adlington Road, then if you can hop across to the Royal Oak, in Princess Street for a very personal welcome. Also here are a good variety of shops, including convenience store, two butchers, chemist and good newsagent. At the end of the Macci you have the choice of turning left to continue on to the Cheshire Ring, or right on to the Upper Peake Forest Canal, (that’s FOUR canals for the price of one!) We chose to head up to Whaley Bridge, on the Peake Forest, and we will tell you about that in another posting. Until then, Happy Cruising!

Using Canal Holiday Guides to Make Your Narrowboat Holiday Run Smoothly

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 06:43:51 GMT

laying with Canal Guides is as much fun as the actual holiday. (well, almost!) It is very important to have a good, informative Canal Guide to help your cruise go smoothly. Which one do you buy? There are three main Cruising guides, Nicholson, Pearson, and Waterways World. So let’s look at them all. Nicholson probably have the largest range of Canal Guides to the British canals available, and have a good reputation. They are bound in a solid cover, (all are red) and some have a spiral spine. We have not used them a lot, but many fellow boaters do. Our share owned "Stella" had a full set on board and we found them easy to use and robust. Some years back they were the ‘Boat Owners Guide”, with the other guides being relegated for Hire Boaters use This is not quite the case now. Nicolsons Guides cover all the Canals and rivers of the U.K with good descriptions, lots of photos. The maps run from the top of the page, to the bottom Waterways World has had a checkered career in the canal guide market. We used them exclusively for our first ever trip in '85, and still have three of their original guides. For years waterways World have been the leading Waterways magazine, but for some reason they disappeared from the guide scene. There Canal Guides are back now, featuring the Llangollen, Grand Union (South), Shropshire Union, and Oxford However, they are bound in a sturdy wire bound cover, to lay nicely on the boats roof for easy reference. They also run from top of the page to bottom, with the colour map on the right hand page. Lovely colour photos, (typical of Waterways World) there are more canal guides planned from them. Pearsons is our canal guide choice. We have been using Pearsons since our ’85 trip, and have continued to do so. Their very detailed maps run from left to right, with the corresponding text underneath, the only guides to be in landscape format. It is clear informative and accurate. At the top of each page, is the number of miles travelled, the number of locks, and the time taken to travel that particular length of canal. We find this particularly useful when planning our trip. Pearson writes in a unique, entertaining style, (e.g. " Foxton Village basks in the sun like a sleek cat that has just had two helping of cream"), with handy notes on each village and the facilities in the town. Their guides cover the majority of canals in the U.K., including Llangollen, Shroppie, Oxford, Grand Union and Trent and Mersey. Which one is best? It is entirely personal. Have a look at each one, talk to other boaters, and make a decision. We have a selection of all of them. Have fun choosing and....Happy Cruising! www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

3D artwork makes a splash at village!

Sat, 07 May 2011 06:34:12 GMT

Here is an article by Nicola Irwin, about a wall painting in Stoke, Staffordshire, U.K. A painting creating an optical illusion of a narrowboat being steered along a canal has been painted by Staffordshire artist Rob Pointon. Viewed from certain angles the boat looks as thought it is bobbing along the canal under the guidance of the helmsman while two swans paddle past. But if the viewer takes a closer look, the picture is skewed out of recognition. The permanent pavement art has been installed in the grounds of the £18 million West End Village, sandwiched between London Road and Foden Street in Stoke, and built by Staffordshire Housing Association (SHA). The best vantage point to see the narrowboat in 3D is from the bridge in Corporation Street, standing at the bridge's central decorative strut. A second 3D picture has been added to a wall, to show a canal bridge and water. In the background is the lower parts of a building, of which the top half is genuinely visible above the real bridge in Corporation Street where the Newcastle Branch Canal used to flow. The canal theme is a nod to the site's previous use as part of the canal. Inside the West End Village building grey tiles also map the route where the canal flowed. Rob, put finishing touches to the work on Easter Monday. Now all that's left to do is varnish it. People can walk over the 'water' of the canal and the narrowboat. Diane Lea, chief executive of Staffordshire Housing Association, said: "Rob has created a fascinating work, which has proved to be a major talking point for residents and visitors to West End Village. "It gives residents an insight to the history of the site and town of Stoke." Rob, who based the boat on a historical narrowboat called Keppel, moored near Etruria Industrial Museum, met up with residents yesterday. He acted as model for the helmsman himself, posing for a picture on the Keppel. He said: "There's a bit of trial and error with this style of painting, you do a few strokes and then you're checking it along the line of sight. "At the front, a couple of paving flags is a big bit of the picture, but towards the back, it's a small part. "I started work in November when it was still a building site, but because of that, there was a limited number of people around. I worked from a photograph of myself, but added the traditional boatman clothing and gave myself longer sideburns to make it a Victorian version of me." "The picture does look real and 3D. We saw it when it was being sketched out, before it was coloured in, and it looked amazing even then." There is lots to enjoy on the canals....find out more at: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Happy Birthday to Charity Narrowboat

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:24:40 GMT

A charitable narrowboat that provides day canal trips for disabled clients and their friends has celebrated 30 years of service. The charitable trust that operates the narrowboat New Horizons was established in 1981 by Gordon Bayley, the then Mayor of Stockport, who made it his Mayoral funding project during his year of office. Sadly, he died just 18 months after the Trust was set up. To celebrate New Horizons' milestone birthday, the Mayor of Stockport was joined by Gordon Bayley's widow to unveil a commemorative brass plaque on the boat. There was a performance by the Marple Brass band. Narrowboat's good work continues Gillian Postill from New Horizons said: “Funding the boat, and setting up the Trust in this way was an extraordinary achievement and Gordon would be delighted to know that the boat is still as busy 30 years on.” British Waterways provides a mooring in Marple, on the Peak Forest Canal, from which the boat has operated for the past 30 years. James Dunlop, the chair of the Trust, estimates that in that time, New Horizons has carried between 50,000 and 55,000 passengers. David Baldacchino, waterway manager for Manchester & Pennine Waterways said: “British Waterways are proud to be supporting such a great Trust. The New Horizons narrowboat provides a great outlet for disabled clients to experience the waterways, and we will continue to provide our mooring services to help this great charity continue its good work in the local community.” For more Canal and Narrowboat info, see www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Canal Web Cams

Sun, 17 Apr 2011 02:54:32 GMT

Live Web Cams of Canal and Narrowboats

Why not pause at Weedon Bec on Your Narrowboat Holiday?

Sat, 26 Mar 2011 03:18:06 GMT

Not many people have thought of mooring at Weedon Bec on the Grand Union Canal. It’s the kind of town that you pass through to quickly get to somewhere else. However, on closer inspection, Weedon Bec has a lot to offer the Narrowboat traveler. As with a lot of canal towns, one just has to look closely. Weedon lies on the Grand Union Canal, tucked neatly between Nether Heyford, and Norton Junction. It’s a town we certainly didn’t have on our “Must visit” list, but when our boat Stella was based at Blisworth, we moored there quite a few times. Moorings are best around the viaduct, with the tower of the lovely church of St. Peters and St. Paul as a backdrop. There is quite a bit of private moorings on one side of the canal, but still plenty of room for the rest of us. A quick walk west of the canal brings one to Weedons most famous establishment….the Royal Ordnance Works. Here, good King George 111 was to be sent if Napoleon was ever to set foot in England during the wars of the early 19th century. Ordnance was also stored here, as it was considered no longer a good idea to store it near sea ports. Weedon was chosen because it was as far away from a seaport as one could get, and also William Jessop had just completed his Grand Union Canal. This part of Weedon is a busy little area, with a Chemist in Bridge Street, (closed on Saturday though!), a dentist in Church Street. Also in Church Street is a Greengrocer, and a handy little One Stop, handy for newspapers, general provisions and off-lisence. There are also a good range of pubs here. We felt very welcome at the Plume of Feathers, (Pedigree in fine form) with its moody interior, and the very local Malsters Arms in West Street one of our favorite canal pubs. Down from Bridge 24 is the “other” Weedon. Here is a gathering of antique shops, plus the Heart of England pub with its appealing outside gardens. Further around is a garage with an auto teller for when reserves are runninig low. We thoroughly enjoyed our several stays at Weedon Bec, perched high on the embankment. And it is a brisk walk to Stowe Hill, and the wonderful Narrow boat Inn as well. Pause at Weedon Bec soon, and enjoy it. There is lots to enjoy on the canals....find out more at: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Black Prince In London

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 05:39:22 GMT

Black Prince are now operating out of London. They recently opened threir base near Bulls Bridge. The London base is an ideal place from which to explore London and its attractions at an easy pace. It combines the best of the sights along with a more relaxed lifestyle. The Grand Union Canal Paddington Arm will take you through the heart of London, past most of the attractions of the big city and many hidden gems conveniently accessed via the waterways. Further afield, though easily reached via London transport you can see Buckingham Palace, the London museums and art galleries, Covent Garden’s famous markets or go and see a west end show. The London Underground and bus connections will take you to wherever you want to go off the water and at the end of the day you leave the city behind and return to the peace of the waterways. For more information, visit the Black prince website at: www.black-prince.com/ And for more on Canal and Narrowboat Holidays, visit: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Boat talk and Demo at Stourport Library

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 05:25:06 GMT

A BOAT talk and a demonstration of narrow boat painting will be held at Stourport Library this month. Coracles and the River Severn talk by David Struckett is on Tuesday, March 15 from 2.30pm until 3.30pm A demonstration of traditional narrow boat painting with Sam from Stourport Chandlery will be on Thursday, March 17, between 10.30am and 12pm. To book a place on either day call Maureen Hobbs on 01905 822722 or email StourportLib@worcestershire.gov.uk For more great information on Canal and Narrowboat Holidays visit: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Great Haywood....Great Village!

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:11:38 GMT

Located at the meeting spot of the Trent and Mersey and Staff and Worcester Canal, Great Haywood lies alongside the ramparts of the imposing Shugborough Estate. This magnificent estate is now owned by the photographer Lord Lichfield, and was once owned by the intrepid sailor, Admiral George Anson. Travelling to Great Haywood by canal has the advantage of being able to moor nearby, providing a magnificent view of the stately home right out your boats window! So it is only a brief walk to the hall. It’s worth the effort as there are lots to do for the whole family. A working farm, with a train to take the children around. But Shugborough Hall is not the only attraction here at Great Haywood. If you can drag oneself away from the enticing Clifford Arms Inn to the nearby laneway, follow it under the railway, and over the canal. This little walk will bring one to the lovely Essex Bridge, said to be the finest examples of the bridge in the U.K. Now Great Haywood became an important junction when James Brindley joined the two canals he built, the Staff and Worcester and Trent and Mersey in 1777. This was all part of his Grand Cross scheme to link the four English Estuaries: Humber, Thames, Severn and Mersey. The Junction, under a beautiful roving bridge played an important part in the Canal mania years, and today remains an important canal town, with a hire fleet and mariner operating there. The town itself remains peaceful and unspoilt. The delightful Clifford Arms Inn has a large bar area, warm feeling and friendly staff. This is an old favorite of ours, and one of the best canal pubs we have been in. Up the road a bit is the Fox and Hounds, a pub we came across quite by accident. A cute, small pub with low black beams, dark timber bar to match, and a nice pint of Old Speckled hen. There is a Spar in the village and a post office as well. And a general store with a butcher. Also down by the junction is a delightful farm shop. www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Easter Gathering at Ellesmere Port!

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:26:42 GMT

If you have never been to Ellesmere Port, here is a great weekend to go. Planning has already started for next Easter's boat gathering at the National Waterways Museum in Ellesmere Port. The Historic Narrow Boat Owners Club is helping organise the event, which will be held over the Easter weekend, 22 - 25 April. There’s going to be plenty to see with activities including a sea shanty festival and entertainment on the Saturday and Sunday evenings. All boats are welcome and ex-working boats and their crews will be admitted free. On the Friday, the Boat Museum Society will be hosting a talk led by Pat Crecraft about the campaigning work of George Smith of Coalville in 'A Special Kind of Traffic'. If you want to take your boat to the festivities, please contact Mike Turpin in advance, so that best use can be made of the mooring space. Mike can be contacted at:miketurpin@onetel.com

Not Everyone Loves Canal boats!

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:18:37 GMT

It’s true! Here is an article I came across. The locals are objecting to the new Mariner in Swindon. Too many people, and to many fumes! Swindon marina plan moves a step closer "Swindon marina plan moves a step closer Controversial plans to flood part of the South Staffordshire green belt to create a 200-boat marina have been recommended for approval by council officers, it emerged today. Plans for the complex near Swindon prompted objections from more than 200 residents, but are now just one step from full approval after winning the backing of South Staffordshire Council’s planning officers. Villagers fear the marina will hit local independent traders and leave the small settlement swamped by thousands of boaters and visitors. Gordon Fanthom, of Hinksford Gardens, Swindon, has been co-coordinating objections on behalf of various groups, including Swindon Civic Society, Marina Action Alliance and the Marina Action Group. The 50-year-old, who owns a car repair garage in Wombourne, said today: “Next week’s meeting has become judgment day for the village of Swindon. It would effectively be the end of the village. There would be 1,000 people coming and going continuously, not to mention fumes from the boats.” An Environment Agency report requested by campaigners also revealed that the proposed marina is so large it is covered by the Reservoirs Act. Original proposals for a 252-boat marina were scaled down earlier this year. Revised plans were submitted for 226 narrowboats before the latest plans for 199 boats. A visitor centre on the site has also been scaled down. South Staffordshire Council’s regulatory committee will meet on Tuesday from 6.30pm to vote on the plans. Paul Turner, planning agent for applicants Timothy and Joanna Munday, said the recommendation followed more than two years of work to address issues raised. “We feel the recommendation is justified and agree with the conclusion,” he added." Ah well, can't please them all!

Love Your Boats? Love Your Beer?

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 05:55:22 GMT

Then here is the perfect weekend for you! It’s the Alvechurch Boat Owners Weekend and Beer Festival, held at the Alvechurch Mariner, Worcestershire on the weekend of 13th, 14th, and 15th May. Have a delightful time looking at the range of boats, then relax in the Weighbridge and sample one of the more than 30 ales available. Maybe purchase a share in one of the boats on display. The Beer Festival runs Friday 13th May, 6.00pm to 11.00pm, and Saturday 14th May 12.00 noon to 11.00pm. Boat Owners weekend will run on Saturday and Sunday 11.00 am to 11.00 pm. I can't think of a better way to spend a weeknd!

Middlewich Boat and Folk Festival 21st. Anniversary

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 05:54:47 GMT

From 17th – 19th June 2011, the market town of Middlewich will be celebrating the 21st Anniversary of the Folk & Boat Festival! As in previous years, Middlewich will be offering an inviting selection of Main stage and Fringe music in various venues around the town, backed up by the colourful array of Narrow Boats along the canal. They are also proud to continue their tradition of Morris Dancing displays, a Celidh night, stalls, workshops and celebration of the rich heritage of Middlewich. Each year Middlewich looks forward to over 20,000 people visiting the Festival – and you can be sure that there is something for everyone! They offer family-friendly activities & venues during the day, plus Fringe music at pubs around the town -many of which welcome children. At night the buzz of the festival rises, with more Fringe music and Main Stage acts, filling the local venues to capacity. There will, as usual, be plenty of stalls to peruse and wide variety of food & drink available from caterers plus of course local pubs, restaurants & takeaways. If you are interested in history, Middlewich has a fascinating past, dating back to Roman times, when the town was established around the production of Salt. The church in the centre of town (St Michael & All Angels) contains pillars dating back to Norman times, and in 1643, Middlewich was the site of 2 battles between the Parliamentarians and Royalists. There also lies a rich heritage on the canals of the town - the Shropshire Union, Trent & Mersey & the Wardle. This is brought to life over the weekend by the visiting boats with their colourful displays & wonderful characters, who are always willing to give of their time to answer your questions. Back to the music part of the Festival....... there will be great demand for tickets for the 21st Anniversary, and for that reason, would encourage you to buy your tickets as early as possible. Remember, you can save money if you go for the Early Bird offer! Just click on the link below & follow the online simple instructions. Middlewich look forward to welcoming you all to the 2011 Middlewich Folk & Boat Festival! www.midfest.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11&Itemid=11.com

Real Boating On a Budget!

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 04:27:47 GMT

Everyone knows canal and river cruising is a great, economical family holiday. But now it is even more so with Hoseasons widest ever choice of fantastic value boats! Whether you are looking for a long break on the Norfolk Broads - Britain's magical waterland - or a short break cruising Britain's canals and waterways, relax and discover the most peaceful way to holiday in the UK! They have selected for you our best value range of boats available in peak season from less than £25 per person per night on the Norfolk Broads and from less than £35 per person per night on the canals and rivers. Have a look at what’s on offer here: http://www.hoseasons.co.uk/Webpages/Promotion/BoatList.aspx?PromotionId=1309.com

Mayden Voyage of Play Boat!

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 04:04:01 GMT

Ahoy there! Cambridge youngsters are buoyed up by their new play boat. The bright red widebeam narrowboat is the first of its type in the country and will allow children to enjoy adventure activities along the River Cam, as well as to learn about what it is like to live on the water. The 57ft vessel was funded by a £130,000 lottery grant and had its first visitors on Saturday, when a group of school pupils who helped to develop the project came aboard at Bottisham Lock. Later this year, it will be used several times a week and will be moored up in the city, next to Jesus Green or Stourbridge Common, allowing up to 25 children to enjoy fishing, river dipping, and wildlife spotting. When the boat goes upriver, children will be able to take the wheel or steer the boat, and it is hoped residential trips could take youngsters out into the countryside, sleeping on the craft or camping on the bank. The boat will be part of the city council’s urban adventure programme, which aims to allow children aged up to 13 to take risks in a safe and supervised environment. Communities chief Cllr Tim Bick said: “The new community play boat provides local children with opportunities to learn more about the river and play on and next to the river in a safe environment. “It is really great to be able to draw the focus and awareness of young people to our river, which is the centrepiece of what makes Cambridge the unique place it is.” For more on canals and narrowboats, go to: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Bank Robbery Chase on the Cheshire Ring?!

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 05:31:59 GMT

Would you believe it? Bank robbers storing their stash on a Canal boat and escaping on the Cheshire Ring! Believe it or not, this is the subject of a new book by John Oliver. Here is a review of the book, called "The Cheshire Ring" A bank robbery by a gang of crooks sparks off a chase around the Cheshire Ring canal system. The crooks have stowed the proceeds aboard a narrowboat - but before they can do anything about it, the boat is hired by an elderly gent planning a holiday. The crooks chase after him, followed also by agents from MI5 - who are on a different case. The confusion that follows is classic in its hints of comedy. All are inexperienced boatmen resulting in complications from dealing with locks and running aground. Dead bodies appear and disappear. It is a plot line that has potential but just does not quite succeed. At times I got lost in the maze of identities. Some extra editing would have been helpful. The action moves quickly, but does get confusing. The writing is a bit pedantic. Sound good eh? More on Narrowboats and canals at www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com,/a>

All systems GO for Liverpool Boat Show!

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 05:36:38 GMT

Show organisers MIE today announced the fleet of Tall ships that will grace the Liverpool Boat Show next Spring in a glorious spectacle of maritime tradition. The Dutch Tall Ships Astrid, and Oosterschelde will be sailing to Liverpool from Rotterdam, with crews of Liverpool youngsters arriving on the eve of the Boat Show's opening on April 29th and berthing in the Canning Half-Tide Dock. Astrid and Oosterschelde will be joined by Tall Ship Ruth from Penzance, as well as the resident Liverpool Tall Ships Glaciere, Zebu and GMC. They will form the centerpiece of the Historic Feature Vessel fleet and all ships will be open to visitors for the full ten days of the show. The magnificent youth training Tall Ship Stavros Niarchos will also be in attendance, stationed on the Cruise Passenger Terminal where she will be offering day cruises for just £99, allowing intrepid visitors to experience a taste of life before the mast - hauling ropes and setting sail for a ten-hour round trip in the Irish Sea. The America's Cup veteran Sceptre, built in 1958, will be one of the nation's much loved yachts attending. Believed to be the only UK America’s Cup Challenger still within British waters, she will occupy a prime position in the Albert Dock. Spirit of Fairbridge, yet another Tall Ship youth training vessel, normally based on the Clyde, will be sailing in to the Boat Show on the 4th of May and making a grand entrance into the Canning Half-Tide in front of thousands of Boat Show visitors and spectators, after which she will remain until the show closes on May 8th. Eighteen historic narrow boats will raft up in the Salthouse Dock alongside the many restaurants and bars that line the docks and will form one of the locations for the annual Liverpool shanty festival that will run in conjunction with the show next year. Also dotted around the docks will be six historic steam launches, the Sea Cadet’s John Jurewood, and Tenacity of Bolton, as well as SS Kerne, the 1913-built steam tug already based in the North West and due to a dedicated band of enthusiasts can be seen steaming around the Mersey waters. For more Canal and Narrowboat info, see www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Christmas Parties Hit the Canals!

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 05:49:46 GMT

OFFICE Christmas parties are taking a new turn in Coventry this year with a unique way of boosting staff morale. A new type of party is being offered in the city which is guaranteed to stop workers getting a sinking feeling – a 70ft narrow boat called The Coventrian. The boat, which is operated by The Living Environment Trust, is offering bosses the chance to treat staff to a three-course meal while floating through the city’s canal network. Andy Adkins, from Coventry Sports Foundation, said: “We wanted to offer something different from the traditional Christmas party and holding this type of gathering on a canal boat is certainly unusual.” As well as the meal, the three-hour cruise also includes a full bar service, Christmas music and karaoke. Prices are £21 per adult and booking is essential. Anyone interested in taking advantage of the unique Christmas party should contact Mark Cooke at mcooke@covsf.com or by telephoning him on 024 7630 8536. For more on canal and narrowboat holidays see: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Great Canal pubs

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 23:41:21 GMT

The pubs of the U.K. are the best in the world. Well, we think they are. On the canals, there are some of the best pubs in the country. There are old boater’s pubs dating from the heyday of the working boats, pubs with lovely beer gardens, pubs over rushing river waters, pubs with panoramic views over the canal. And pubs where you can moor right by the front door. moor right up outside the front door. So which pubs are the best? Here are some of ours, see if you agree. Shroppie Fly, Audlem. It’s changed a bit since our first visit. Paintings if musicians have replaced the canal prints on the wall. But it’s still friendly, a great location, and great atmosphere. The canal boat bow bar is still the feature, but there is plenty to like about this pub. Plenty of space out the front to watch the boats go by, and there is often live music to enjoy. New Inn, Norton Junction, Grand Union. The only pub I have found, selling “take away beer in a carton”! An extremely friendly landlord, with great sense of humor, and outlook over the Buckby Flight. Good meals, great beer, and great fun watching the boats work through the locks. he Dusty Miller, Wrenbury This old restored mill sits right on the towpath in the lovely little village of Wrenbury. Tastefully new, without being stark. Outside seating so you can watch passing boaters playing with the electric lift bridge. The Cotton Arms, just down the road, is also a great little pub. Old traditional pub with great meals. Old Plough, Braunston With its open fire, dark timber bar and low ceiling it has great atmosphere. There is a nice beer garden at the rear as well. Oddfellows Arms, Nantwich. A very clean, well run pub with low ceilings, bench and stools for seating, 6x beers and economical meals. There is a rear beer garden for sunny days as well. The landlord does a Saturday evening floor show! Great fun indeed! Jack Myttons, Llangollen Canal. Jovial landlord, good food, good moorings right out the front, informal atmosphere, we found it all here. Cozy bar area, large eating area, makes for an ideal couple of hours break. Admiral Rodney, Brewood, Shropshire Union A lovely long timber bar, lots of seating, Abbots Ale and an outdoor area make this one of the best pubs we have been to. Narrowboat, Llangollen Just past Frankton Junction and bridge 5 is the Narrowboat. Not an old English pub, but the landlord makes up for it, he will make you feel welcome no matter the time or weather. The Red Lion With an exquisite garden overlooking the Coventry Canal, the Red Lion is located in the delightful village of Hopwas. A fine red brick building, with pleasant, relaxing bars, good food nicely decorated. What’s YOUR favorite canal pub? Visit:< a href=”http://www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com"/bestcanalboatholidayspots.html” …..and tell us!

What's Your Favorite Canal Town or Village?

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 01:33:10 GMT

An advantage of touring the countryside by canal, is there is no traffic jams approaching the town, usually no parking problems, and generally, no pay and display. And, you don’t have to worry about accommodation, or book ahead. You just turn up, and tie up! So, what are YOUR favorite spots? Here are some of ours, (in no particular order.) What do you think? Marbury Tucked away up a lovely little laneway from bridge 24 on the Llangollen, Marbury is a quaint classic English village. Beautiful Tudor homes, village green and mere’s behind the beautiful old church teeming with birdlife. It even has a classic English pub opposite the green, closed every time we have been there! Nether Heyford You have to make a bit of an effort to get to this very attractive little village on the Grand Union Canal. Moor by bridge 32, (Furnace Lane Bridge) take the track by the bridge, (opposite the wharf) and take the road into the village. It’s a pleasant walk, past a stables and attractive homes. The village is centered on the green a couple of general stores/newsagents, a butcher and hairdresser. The pub, the Forrester Arms, overlooks the green. If you walk past the Forrester Arms, and take the next turn left, you will come across the very pleasant Rising Sun. Here is a delightful thatched a typical old England feel inside. Well worth the effort. Brewood On the Shropshire Union, Brewood took us a bit by surprise. Lovely winding streets, friendly, very helpful locals, The Admiral Rodney Hotel, (one of the top pubs we have been in) and the friendliest hairdresser for miles. There are a great range of shops, grocer, post office, baker, and newsagent overlooking the old square. Gracious well kept buildings make Brewood as nice a spot as you will find on the system. Idyllic moorings as well! Great Heywood. Another classic canal town. The moorings at Great Heywood have been assisted by the opening of the mariner nearby. The spot we like is overlooking Shugbborough Hall, just below lock 13. A really lovely outlook, and close to the village of Great Heywood, and the walks around Cannock Chase. Leighton Buzzard We just had to visit here to see what a town with such a name looks like! It’s a great place, plenty of good moorings, plenty of shops, and a Tesco’s right on the canal. Some good pubs, including Roebucks, off Market Square. Napton. The most beautiful sunsets imaginable are at Napton, on the Oxford Canal. We moored here once above the second lock. Luckily it was a quiet time, and we were the only boat there. The views over the countryside were stunning, never to be forgotten It’s a relaxing walk up to the little village of Napton on the Hill, and the Folly and Napton Bridge pubs are great pubs. What’s YOUR favorite town or village? Let us know, visit www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com ……and tell us all about it!

Canals in Ontario?

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 01:49:30 GMT

Did you know there are canals in Ontario? Nor did I, but Peter Neville Hadley, from the Horizon Writers Group, not only found one, but cruised it! Apparently the Rideau canal, completed in 1832 was the most expensive construction project the British Empire had undertaken in its colonies. Lt. Col. John By of the Royal Engineers arrived in 1826 to supervise construction. After 125 miles of waterway, 47 locks, 52 dams and six years, he had managed a truly Olympic-scale overspend. At roughly $90 million at today's prices, the canal cost almost five times its original budget. Read his interesting story at: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/travel/thisweek/stories/DN-rideau_0808tra.State.Edition1.564a81.html And more on Canals and Canal Holidays at: www.great-canal-and-river-holidays.com

Interesting links

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 01:31:51 GMT

Links ton other interseting sites

Staircase locks

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:53:26 GMT

Hi Canal folk everywhere. The term staircase locks. I think it means one lock after another? We will be off for our first trip next April, and come accross

Ownerships Collapse

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:46:36 GMT

It was with great sadness that we read of the collapse of the Ownerships group. Jen and I were proud members of the group for 3 great years. We had a one twelfth share in the narrow boat Stella, and had some of our best canal journeys with her. We met some great co-owners with whom we still keep in contact. Even sadder, was the news of its founder and owner Allan Mathews. We met Allen several times, and found him and his staff extremely helpful, friendly and efficient. I thought he was a quiet and smart businessman, but as it turned out, the latter was incorrect. The future of the owners in the group is uncertain, but a proposal has been put forward that could see the company re launched. I hope so. For an insight into Allan Mathews and Ownerships, written by one who was there, see http://www.boatshare.co.uk/allenmatthews/index.htm

Every question answersd about canal and narrowboat holidays

Thu, 13 May 2010 07:21:45 GMT

Want your questions about canal and narrowboat holidays answered? Here is the place!

All Paws on Deck!

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 23:01:52 GMT

All Paws on Deck! As we all know, the dog is an integrall patr of the family, right? With this in mind,quite a few British Boatyards are offering dog friendly holidaysn on selected cruisers and narrowboats. And, for free! What could be better than cruising the canals and rivers with your family, AND dog. All will love it!

Canal and Narrowboat Books

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 03:34:28 GMT

There is a great deal of history and tradition belonging to the Canals of the U.K. Luckily for us, quite a bit of it has been recorded in word and picture. Every now and then I come across a book telling of the days gone by, and I cannot resist them! Here are a few of the books I have that are worth getting hold of, if you can. The Number Ones, by Robert J. Wilson Number Ones were owner operators. They actually owned their own boat, and had crews work for them. Some of the well known number ones were Arthur Bray, Joe Skinner, and Charlie Atkins. This little book I picked up at the Canal Museum in London, and give a look at the lives of the Midland Canal owner boatmen. It is well written, and has a host of photographs of the Number Ones, their boats and families. Canal Narrow boats and Barges, written by Tony Conder. This is a Shire Publication, and is an introduction to narrow boats, while also looking at a variety of other canal and river craft. Photos and illustrations, (in colour and black and white) show boats on the inland waterways today and older working boats with the background of industry. The author, Tony Conder, worked at the Stoke Bruerne canal museum, before opening the National Waterways Museum at Gloucestershire. A Canal People, featuring the photographs of Robert Longden, by Sonia Rolt One of the best books on canal boats, and canal folk. I just love the canal history and culture, and this book is just packed with excellent high quality photos of the canal. The photos were taken around Hawkesbury Junction between late 1940 and early 1950. The photographs are of a close community and represent its members in an intimate way, at work, at play, in their domestic affairs, and how they lived on their colorful narrow boats. Sonia Rolt, who worked on the canals, and new the photographer, tells how she came by the pictures, and provides informative captions to the pictures. Highly recommended to all narrow boat enthusiasts. Canals of England, Martin Evans and Robert Reichenfeld This is a lovely picture book, part of the Country Series put out by Phoenix some time ago. Martin and Robert toured the canals, and documented the waterways in all aspects - in all weathers. There are over130 great photographs, and plenty of rich text in the history, people and legends of the canals. This book captures the beauty of the canals from stone bridges in Bath, to the magnificent sweep of the Rochdale Canal. Check availability of these books at: www.Great-Canal-And-River-Holidays.com