Various trips are available from our central base in Weedon.

3^rd June 2024

Different trips for you to explore. 

Going out north through Braunston with its charm and boating history you could head on to Warwick a medieval town and stunning castle.

 Warwick Castle is a 24 minute walk along the Coventry road from Bridge 49. There are lots of things for everyone to see and explore.

Alternatively going south through the Blisworth tunnel to Stoke Bruerne with its grand position above the descending lock flight, you can all enjoy the variety of drinks and food on offer.

 Venturing on at your own pace you can stop and visit :-

 Gulivers Land Theme Park Resort in Milton Keynes  offers 25+ rides, 6 themed areas plus lots of play attractions, ideal for children. It is just a 7 minute walk from Campbell Park Bridge 81 on the Grand Union Canal.

Bletchley Park also in Milton Keynes is an open plan site with museum and heritage centre, where you can discover the amazing achievements made by the World War 2 code breakers. It’s a 30 minute walk from Watling street bridge 96 on the Grand Union Canal.

 Other Activities On Route

Splendid canal walks with spectacular scenery provide a variety of interesting places to explore. An abundance of wild life thrives along the canal banks giving you plenty to discover. 

Great opportunities for cycling together and exploring further, running is also popular. Canoeing and paddle boarding are other options. If you fancy fishing it is right on your door step, just bring some tackle along with you.

Your Narrowboat becomes your home from home for your adventure, exploring some of the most scenic countryside. There are different places to visit and activities to be undertaken. You have flexibility to choose what is best for you all.

One of the key areas is the saloon with dining table and kitchen area where you can relax and enjoy eating together. The Forward cockpit has outdoor seating where you can chill out together and watch the world go by.

Make the most of the lengthy daylight hours with the summer season approaching.

Whether taking your first venture out on a narrowboat or returning again you will always find new things to explore along your route. There is natural beauty all around the canal changing as the seasons progress.

No need to worry if you have not had previous experience on narrowboats. We explain what you need to know about the boat and how to operate it. When you start your trip we accompany and guide you through maneuvering including steering, stopping and mooring. Full lock instruction is provided when you reach your first locks so that everyone understands how they work and how to operate them.

Escape away with your family, friends and the furry ones. Our larger two boats Knotweed and Tasselweed are ideal choices to consider for larger groups.

 Take a look and see which of our boats suits you best.

Grand Union Narrowboats Welcome Overseas Visitors

23^rd December 2023

A vacation on one of our narrowboats allows you the freedom to explore the English waterways with its spectacular countryside and visit some quaint villages, towns and historic attractions on route. You have the flexibility to spend a few days through to longer extended trips giving you more time to relax and explore, delving deeper into what England has to offer. Just pick the length of trip that best fits in with your stay in the UK.  

Our Short routes include travelling south on the Grand Union Canal through the rolling Northamptonshire countryside to Cosgrove and return back. You could also go north to Welford or Napton.

A One Week route allows you to venture further, you could explore the picturesque South Oxford Canal or go north on the beautiful Ashby canal with a visit to the Bosworth battle field site.

If you have Two Weeks the Avon ring and a visit to Shakespeare Country is popular.

With Three Weeks you can explore the Royal River Thames venturing through London taking in sights like Hampton Court Palace, Windsor, Henley on Thames and Oxford.

Whichever way you go you are free to stop and explore the numerous attractions along your route.

On your arrival day after you have settled on board we will spend time with you, showing you around the boat and explain all about the equipment and how you operate it. We can also discuss route options and good places to visit etc. You can then set off on your planned route.

If you are new to narrow boating you will be in safe hands. We will accompany you when you set off and explain how to handle the boat including steering stopping and mooring. We will stay with you until you are happy with all of this.

When you arrive at your first locks we will meet you there, explain all of the detail to operate these and accompany you through the first few until you are confident with this.

We can also offer advice on the best options for transfers from the airport if required.

For further details see our Information for Overseas Visitors web page.

Step onboard for a journey to treasure forever.

Enjoy Autumn To The Full, Treat Yourself To A Canal Boat Adventure.

10^th October 2023

You still have time to take in all of the delights Autumn brings to your door step. 

With the Autumn season upon us, experience the joys of Narrow boating at this enchanting time of year.

There are many routes available from our Weedon base offering short weekend breaks through to longer durations to match your needs.

A favourite route is south to Cosgrove.

Head south to Stoke Bruerne via the Blisworth tunnel then down the Stoke Bruerne flight of locks. If you are new to narrow boating there is no need to worry, we will meet you before the first lock and explain how they work and show you how to operate them. We also accompany you down the first few locks until you are happy.

Good stopping places include:- The Wharf a nice canal side pub with outdoor and indoor seating offering good food and beverages, they even have their own moorings and plenty along the tow path if it is busy. Stoke Bruerne offers an array of pubs and restaurants for you to choose from, there is also the canal museum ideal for a short break. Further stops can be at Cosgrove, or further on to Cow Roast where time permits.

At this time of year it will be quieter with less people and boats on the canals, allowing you to travel more easily with greater opportunities to explore at your leisure.

The array of pubs and restaurants on route allow you to relax and enjoy the local specialities.

Wildlife:- numerous birds including Kingfishers if you are lucky. There are plenty of ducks some still with youngsters in tow. You can frequently see swans and signets even herons can be seen by the water.  

If this sounds like a break for you then don’t delay, we still have slots available this October but don’t delay as they can fill quickly.

Which way will your next adventure take you?

Discover the Splendor of a Canal Holiday on the Grand Union Canal in August

13^th June 2023

   Imagine a peaceful escape, where time slows down, and you

     immerse yourself in serene landscapes and charming waterside                 villages.

     A canal holiday on the Grand Union Canal in August offers a                     delightful journey through picturesque scenery, fascinating                       engineering marvels, and a chance to unwind in the heart of nature.

     Let's explore the best aspects of embarking on a

     memorable canal adventure during this idyllic month.

1. Captivating Scenery:

In August, the Grand Union Canal transforms into a tapestry of lush greenery and vibrant colors. As you gently glide through the water, admire the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. The canal is enveloped by charming countryside, dotted with blooming wildflowers and gracefully meandering through rolling hills.

2. Pleasant Weather:

August offers warm and pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to embark on a canal boat holiday. Bask in the gentle summer sunshine, feel the refreshing breeze on your face, and enjoy the delightful warmth of long summer days. It's the perfect climate for leisurely cruising, outdoor activities, and simply soaking up the tranquil ambiance of the canal.

3. Locks and Aqueducts:

One of the highlights of a canal holiday on the Grand Union Canal is the fascinating locks and awe-inspiring aqueducts that adorn its path. Experience the excitement of navigating through locks, marvel at the intricate engineering involved, and relish the satisfaction of mastering these watery passages. Crossing the impressive aqueducts will provide you with unforgettable panoramic views and a sense of awe as you glide gracefully over other watercourses.

4.Enchanting Waterside Villages and Attractions:

As you meander along the Grand Union Canal, you'll encounter a string of enchanting waterside villages and towns that are well worth exploring. From the historic charm of Braunston and the picturesque setting of Stoke Bruerne to the vibrant atmosphere of Leighton Buzzard, each place offers its unique allure. Discover delightful canalside pubs, cozy cafes, local shops, and intriguing historical sites. Immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious cuisine, and embrace the warm hospitality of these waterside communities.

5. Serene and Relaxing Pace:

A canal holiday allows you to escape the frenetic pace of modern life and embrace a slower rhythm. Unwind as you navigate the tranquil waters, feeling the gentle sway of the boat beneath you. Embrace the unhurried lifestyle, where you can pause whenever you please, explore hidden nooks, and savor moments of peace and tranquility. It's the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

6. Abundant Wildlife and Nature:

The Grand Union Canal is teeming with wildlife, providing nature enthusiasts with ample opportunities for discovery. In August, the canal is alive with a vibrant array of birdlife, including ducks, swans, herons, and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for other creatures that call the canal home, such as water voles and dragonflies. Explore the surrounding towpaths, venture into nearby nature reserves, and revel in the beauty of the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this captivating ecosystem.

Conclusion:

A canal holiday on the Grand Union Canal in August offers an enchanting escape, immersing you in the beauty of nature, the rich history of waterside villages, and the captivating engineering marvels that define the canal. With pleasant weather, stunning scenery, and a leisurely pace, you'll find yourself transported to a world of tranquility and serenity. So, embark on this unforgettable journey, and let Grand Union Narrowboats unlock your summer adventure.

You Deserve The Best Narrowboat For Your Next Trip

22^nd February 2023

When you book a narrow boating holiday with Grand Union Narrowboats you are in safe hands as you start on your great adventure with us.
As a member of our trade association ‘British Marine’ we recently had our two-yearly inspection for the Quality Accredited Boatyard & Boat Grading Scheme.
We are pleased to share that we have passed with flying colours again.

Achieving this is a credit to the hard work and commitment put in by our valued team at Grand Union Narrowboats.

As customers this provides the confidence that you are booking with a reputable company. We comply with all current legislation and are well placed to provide you with the special narrowboat experience you deserve.

Being a member of British Marine ensures that we are kept up to date on legislation and advised of new legislation that is being considered for the future.   

We minimise the risk of things going wrong by having thorough processes and procedures covering the inspection, maintenance, repair, and cleaning for all of our boats.

Servicing is rigorously carried out following the manufacturers specified procedures.

By performing all of this we meet the full requirements and ensure everything is working, minimising the possibility of breakdowns.

This provides you the confidence that our boats will perform to the highest of standards and allows you to relax and enjoy your holiday to the full.

Another one of our favourite routes is Weedon to Warwick 

This is an interesting route along the mainline of the Grand Union Canal.  It is a good route for the keen canal boater with Plenty of locks to keep you busy.

You will go straight at Norton Junction and pass through Braunston Tunnel, go down the 6 locks to arrive at the lovely canalside village of Braunston. There you will find a selection of pubs where you can dine.  If you choose to stay on board and need provisions, there is a village shop and award-winning butchers selling a variety of homemade produce. 

Leaving the picturesque village of Braunston behind you take the Oxford Canal south. At Napton Junction turn onto the Grand Union Canal to Stockton in the county of Warwickshire.  There are 10 locks here the last one being at long Itchington.  If you decide to stop here, there are several pubs and a Café.  Also shops so that you can stock up on provisions if you need them.

When you have had enough and are on the move again you will arrive at Radford Semele and pass under the old Roman Road the ‘Fosse Way'.

The next town of interest is Royal Leamington Spa a regency town with its stunning architecture and a large selection of shops and eateries.

Just a further short cruise and you will reach the medieval county town of Warwick.  Warwick itself has notable Roman, Saxon and Norman history. There are a lot of things to do including walking, cycling and not forgetting Warwick Castle which is a must - see attraction.  For the best deal on tickets book them in advance online.

Book with confidence knowing that all of our prices are fully inclusive with fuel, gas, bed linen and secure car parking included.

Bookings For Spring 2023 Are Filling Up

21^st December 2022

Spring is a particularly special time of year on the canal, with freshly blooming wild flowers and hedgerows along with ducklings, cygnets and many other forms of wildlife on the water making the most of the warmer days. The canals of England provide one of the UK’s best holiday destinations with their timeless beauty and spectacular natural scenery.

There is always something new around the next corner.

The Routes from Weedon on the Grand Union Canal provide a great variety of things to see and do with locks, tunnels, aqueducts, canalside pubs, visitor centres plus many more attractions.

One of our favourite routes is to head south from Weedon.

You start by going south through the beautiful rolling countryside of Northamptonshire, spending your first night in the delightful village of Bugbrooke where you may visit the Wharf Inn for an evening meal. The following morning you can set off and enjoy the experience of passing through the Blisworth Tunnel arriving in the picturesque village of Stoke Bruerne with its Canal Museum and the historic Boat Inn. Next is the Village of Cosgrove with its hidden Boat Horse tunnel leading you to the old Village.

Heading further south takes you nearby Bletchley Park of Code Breaking fame and then eventually arriving at the town of Leighton Buzzard with ample opportunity for stocking up on supplies. If time allows you can venture further South passing through some stunning Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire countryside with views of the Chiltern Hills (AONB). 

If you fancy a stroll at any point you can moor up and explore some of the many footpaths that run by the canal. There are numerous attractions and stunning spring views to take in and enjoy.

Pets are always welcome to come on board with just a small additional charge.

Grab your spring holiday before it’s too late!

Don't Delay Choose Your Autumn Break Today

12^th September 2022

The waterways are getting quieter giving you a more relaxing time to explore the beauty and stunning scenery, with the different array of brightly coloured leaves that the Autumn season brings.

Our base in Weedon Northamptonshire is centrally located and easily reached from most locations. A good variety of routes are available for you to choose from. With less boats about you can easily explore further afield or enjoy more of the closer attractions on offer. All of the routes are shown in more detail on our website’s Routes page with a variety of short breaks through to longer voyages available for you to review.

Whatever you choose to do you are sure to have a more relaxing time enjoying all of the splendours this season has to offer.

Take the hassle out of your holiday, avoid those overseas travel worries. Your narrowboat provides you home from home accommodation and is fully equipped including central heating so there is no need to worry if the evenings turn a little cooler.

Novices are always welcome. We explain everything you need to know about the boat, show you how the controls work and give practical steering tuition. Instruction and help with your first locks gets you off to a great start.    

Ensure you book early in order to secure the boat you choose is available for your required dates.

You can find more details for all of our boats on "Our Boats" page.

Welcome aboard your narrowboating adventure. 

Come on board and start your 2022 summer adventure

11^th May 2022

With Spring 2022 very much with us, the sun shining and the summer holiday season rapidly approaching, it would be difficult to find a more relaxing holiday this summer than a trip on one of our narrowboats. All boats have completed winter maintenance programs, they have been freshly painted and spring cleaned ready for your summer adventures.

You are free to choose from the array of routes available from our base at Weedon on the Grand Union Canal. Pick and choose attractions and places that interest you along your route through the stunning scenic countryside. With most places now open you can visit and enjoy attractions from the comfort of your own narrowboat. The vast array of routes that are available cover short breaks ideal for novices wanting to take out a canal boat for the first time, through to extended trips to match your needs. 

All of our Grand Union Narrowboats are designed around your needs and provide you with a “home from home” giving you your own space to retreat to where you can unwind and go at your own pace. Free to do what you want, the well equipped galley kitchen allows you to self cater on board and enjoy home cooking. Alternatively eat out at one of the numerous canal side restaurants and pubs taking in the unique atmosphere.

You can book for a weekend 3 night break, a 4 night short week, a 7 night full week through to longer multiples as required. This gives you flexibility to match your needs. Full details are on our website.

Review Trip Adviser to see what our customers are currently posting : https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g504030-d12454777-Reviews-Grand_Union_Narrowboats-Weedon_Northamptonshire_England.html

If its just two of you wanting a break away our 2 berth narrowboats Hawkweed and Ragweed are the ideal choice.

If its family summer holidays your after, check out our family 4/6 berth boats Jimsonweed and Londonweed offering spacious accommodation for that precious family break away.

Looking for an escape away with friends or the extended family? Knotweed our 8 berth recent addition to the fleet is ideal for larger groups offering full cabin flexibility to comfortably fit you all in.

Quickly review our fleet of 7 boats and pick the one which best matches your needs.

Hawkweed and Ragweed:- Our smallest boats at 45 ft length, cosy and ideal for small groups 3 berth, 1 double plus a dinette single for a child up to 12 years old. 

Driftweed:- A mid-size of 55ft length 2/4 berth offering 2 doubles or 1 double and 2 singles. More spacious but still easy to handle.

Jimsonweed and Londonweed:- Larger boats at 65ft length 4/6 berth offering more space for small to medium groups with a fixed layout of 2 doubles and 2 singles.

Tasselweed:- Our longest boat at 70ft in length 4/6 berth featuring 3 double berths in 3 cabins, alternatively the aft 2 cabins can be changed into single cabins if required. This boat is spacious with the luxury of 2 bathrooms a dishwasher and washing machine.

Knotweed:- Our latest addition to the fleet is 68ft in length ideal for groups of family and friends. 8 berth with four separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 Singles as required offering total flexibility.

Full details of all boats are on our website. Book early to reserve preferred dates. 

Whichever boat you choose you will have a holiday experience to remember

If you are ready for a new adventure or returning to continue your adventures we will always welcome you abord.

Which route will you explore? 

2022 is looking like the ideal time for an English Barge Vacation.

16^th December 2021

Welcome aboard your barge holiday in stunning England, start to explore your chosen sights from the vast array of attractions that are available, discover some of the great opportunities that this country has to offer.

With longer trips of 2 weeks or more it is easy to venture out further and take in London with all of its historic attractions, you can even include a trip along the Thames. Birmingham is a popular destination, with more canals than Venice and lots of industrial heritage plus a variety of shops and canal side restaurants make for a perfect stop. Cadbury World at the scenic village of Bournville can easily be included. A stop at the Dudley Black Country Living Museum takes you back into the industrial revolution, some of Peaky Blinders was filmed on site. The famous Dudley canal tunnel is close by for you to explore.

The canals of England were originally built in the 18^th century to speed up and reduce the cost for transport of goods between towns and cities by boat. We are based on the Grand Union Canal which played an instrumental role in transporting goods such as coal between London and Birmingham. Today the UK waterways are a thriving leisure amenity and weave through some of the most picturesque areas in the UK showing you the quaint English villages and scenic countryside as you pass by.

If you are looking for a canal boat cruise, England’s rustic beauty is revealed in its glory to those who opt for this destination. We offer slow, meandering journeys past Royal Palaces, riverside towns and villages.

Venturing out on a barge holiday is the quintessential way of exploring the interesting historical attractions along your chosen route.

Based on one of our traditional style weed boats allows you to explore the extensive canal network at your leisure.

Now is a great time to start planning and chose your ideal vacation for next year.

We look forward to welcoming you onboard for your 2022 vacation.

Trip Advisor Travelers Choice Award

21^st August 2021

We would like to thank all of our existing customers for booking narrowboat holidays with us and for their support in writing reviews to share their experiences.

Grand Union Narrowboats is pleased to announce that we have been awarded the Trip Advisor 2021 Travelers Choice award for consistently high levels of customer service and quality of accommodation. This prestigious award is given to the top 10% of hospitality businesses worldwide.

If you are considering a narrowboat holiday with us then reading the reviews from our existing customers will provide some insight into the holidays that we provide and help with your booking decision.

Thanks again from all of the Grand Union Narrowboats team. 

Book now to ensure you get the holiday you deserve in 2022

19^th August 2021

With the exceptionally high level of bookings we already have for next year and the popularity of narrowboating increasing, now is the time to plan your trip and book as soon as possible to ensure your chosen boat is available for the dates you need.

A short break of 3 or 4 nights is ideal if you are new to narrowboating and allows you to give it a try.
Weekly breaks are popular, offering scope to explore more or just take a relaxing pace the choice is yours.
Extended breaks of 10 or 11 nights allow extra time to explore further on the fabulous routes starting from Weedon.
2 to 3 weeks allows you to cover a circular trip offering you the maximum coverage enjoying an everchanging route. The Leicester Ring, Avon Ring, Thames Ring and Four Counties Ring are all options to consider.

Choose from our fleet of 7 boats to see which will best match your group’s needs.           

Hawkweed and Ragweed:- Our smallest boats at 45 ft length, cosy and ideal for small groups 3 berth 1 double plus a dinette single for a child up to 12 years old.
Driftweed:- A mid-size of 55ft length 2/4 berth offering 2 doubles or 1 double and 2 singles. More spacious but still easy to handle.
Jimsonweed and Londonweed:- Larger boats at 65ft length 4/6 berth offering more space for small to medium groups with a fixed layout of 2 doubles and 2 singles.
Knotweed:- Our latest addition to the fleet is 68ft in length ideal for groups of family and friends. 8 berth with four separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 singles as required, offering total flexibility.
Tasselweed:- Our longest boat at 70ft in length 4/6 berth featuring 3 double berths in 3 cabins, alternatively the aft 2 cabins can be changed into single cabins if required. This boat is spacious with the luxury of 2 bathrooms a dishwasher and washing machine.

Full details of all boats and current offers are on our website.

Don’t delay book soon to ensure you can get the narrowboating holiday you deserve in 2022

Which route will you navigate?         

Welcome to our new addition Knotweed

18^th June 2021

Knotweed is a great choice for larger groups of up to 8 people allowing family and friends to enjoy a fun packed time together on the water, living and sharing your narrow boat dreams.
Following frequent requests from customers for an 8 berth boat we have added Knotweed our new 8 berth boat to the fleet.

May 17th see’s the start of her new life welcoming customers on board and sharing adventures.

Knotweeds vital statistics
68ft in length
8 berths with 4 separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 singles flexible to meet all your needs.
Stunning lines freshly painted in our colours.
New flooring, curtains and upholstery.
New low emissions Beta Marine engine.
New Webasto diesel heating system provides copious amounts of hot water and toasty central heating.
Whether you are looking to get away with another family for a fun packed holiday or enjoy a break with your family unit joined by grandparents. Knotweed has a space to suit all and satisfy individual needs.

You can quickly review our fleet of 6 boats to see which will best match your group’s needs.

Hawkweed and Ragweed:- Our smallest boats at 45 ft length, cosy and ideal for small groups 3 berth, 1 double plus a dinette single for a child up to 12 years old. 

Driftweed:- A mid-size of 55ft length 2/4 berth offering 2 doubles or 1 double and 2 singles. More spacious but still easy to handle.

Jimsonweed:- A larger boat at 65ft length 4/6 berth offering more space for small to medium groups with a fixed layout of 2 doubles and 2 singles.

Tasselweed:- Our longest boat at 70ft in length 4/6 berth featuring 3 double berths in 3 cabins, alternatively the aft 2 cabins can be changed into single cabins if required. This boat is spacious with the luxury of 2 bathrooms a dishwasher and washing machine.

Knotweed:- Our latest addition to the fleet is 68ft in length ideal for groups of family and friends. 8 berth with four separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 singles as required offering total flexibility.

Full details of all boats are on our website.

Who will you take with you on your summer adventure?

Welcome On Board For Your Summer Adventure

3^rd May 2021

We are open for business again and with spring very much in the air, the sun shining and the holiday season fast approaching, you would be hard pushed to find a better holiday this summer than a week on one of our narrowboats.

If it’s just the two of you looking for a romantic break away from your home or office our 2 berth narrowboats Hawkweed and Ragweed make a perfect match.

If you are looking to escape away with extended family or friends, Knotweed our 8 berth new addition to the fleet this year, is ideal for larger groups offering full cabin flexibility to fit you in perfectly.

You can quickly review our fleet of 6 boats to see which will best match your group’s needs.

Hawkweed and Ragweed:- Our smallest boats at 45 ft length, cosy and ideal for small groups 3 berth, 1 double plus a dinette single for a child up to 12 years old. 

Driftweed:- A mid-size of 55ft length 2/4 berth offering 2 doubles or 1 double and 2 singles. More spacious but still easy to handle.

Jimsonweed:- A larger boat at 65ft length 4/6 berth offering more space for small to medium groups with a fixed layout of 2 doubles and 2 singles.

Tasselweed:- Our longest boat at 70ft in length 4/6 berth featuring 3 double berths in 3 cabins, alternatively the aft 2 cabins can be changed into single cabins if required. This boat is spacious with the luxury of 2 bathrooms a dishwasher and washing machine.

Knotweed:- Our latest addition to the fleet is 68ft in length ideal for groups of family and friends. 8 berth with four separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 singles as required offering total flexibility.

Full details of all boats are on our website.
Book early to reserve preferred dates. 

Whichever boat you choose we are sure you will have a holiday experience to remember

Fully Inclusive Narrowboat Holidays

20^th January 2021

Now is an ideal time to start planning for the year ahead and have things to look forward to. This year holidays are in high demand and many people are looking for complete solutions to satisfy their needs and requirements.

Our fully inclusive holidays include all of the key items you need. Many other operators charge for fuel, gas, car parking, insurance, bedding, towels etc. All of these are included in our upfront standard hire charge so you don’t get any extras to pay at the end of your trip.

As an option you are welcome to bring pets with you so that you can all join in the fun. The countryside is always on your doorstep offering you endless opportunities for walks and exploration. This does carry a small charge, full details are shown on our website when booking.

Hawkweed and Ragweed:- Our smallest boats at 45 ft length, cosy and ideal for small groups 3 berth, 1 double plus a dinette single for a child up to 12 years old. 

Driftweed:- A mid-size of 55ft length 2/4 berth offering 2 doubles or 1 double and 2 singles. More spacious but still easy to handle.

Jimsonweed:- A larger boat at 65ft length 4/6 berth offering more space for small to medium groups with a fixed layout of 2 doubles and 2 singles.

Tasselweed:- Our longest boat at 70ft in length 4/6 berth featuring 3 double berths in 3 cabins, alternatively the aft 2 cabins can be changed into single cabins if required. This boat is spacious with the luxury of 2 bathrooms a dishwasher and washing machine.

Knotweed:- Our latest addition to the fleet is 68ft in length ideal for groups of family and friends. 8 berth with four separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 singles as required offering total flexibility. Full details of all boats are on our website so you can explore in greater detail.

Demand is high for boats this year, booking early will ensure that the boat you want is available for your required dates.

Which direction will your travels take you?

Reasons to go Narrow Boating in 2021

23^rd December 2020

How will you holiday in 2021? 

A narrow boating holiday provides a relaxing break allowing you to slow down to a leisurely pace, fully enjoying the English waterways and beautiful countryside. Take in the fresh air and explore all of the interesting opportunities and experiences on route.

As we approach the end of the current year the memories of recent holidays are still fresh in our minds, we all review and remember the highlights from our last holidays. It is also the time to start planning for the next year. What is it that you want to do? Check over your bucket list, discuss amongst friends and home in on the best and most suitable avenues to explore. Now bring some of these to life.

All of our boats provide a covid safe environment, your home from home to stay and travel in, allowing you to safely explore your chosen route from the wide variety we have available. An ideal British staycation without any of the distant travel concerns, allows you to unwind and relax right from the start as we are often reminded by our returning customers.  

Our fleet of 6 boats allows you to choose which is best to satisfy your group’s needs. 

Hawkweed and Ragweed:- Our smallest boats at 45 ft length, cosy and ideal for small groups 3 berth, 1 double plus a dinette single for a child up to 12 years old. 

Driftweed:- A mid-size of 55ft length 2/4 berth offering 2 doubles or 1 double and 2 singles. More spacious but still easy to handle.

Jimsonweed:- A larger boat at 65ft length 4/6 berth offering more space for small to medium groups with a fixed layout of 2 doubles and 2 singles.

Tasselweed:- Our longest boat at 70ft in length 4/6 berth featuring 3 double berths in 3 cabins, alternatively the aft 2 cabins can be changed into single cabins if required. This boat is spacious with the luxury of 2 bathrooms a dishwasher and washing machine.

Knotweed:- Our latest addition to the fleet is 68ft in length ideal for groups of family and friends. 8 berth with four separate cabins each configurable as 1 double or 2 singles as required offering total flexibility.

Full details of all boats are on our website so you can explore in greater detail.

We have had increased demand for boats in 2021, so start reviewing what is the best option for you and consider booking to ensure that the boat you choose is reserved for the dates you want.

Which boat will you choose?

What’s happening on the canals this winter?

6^th December 2020

As we enter the winter season the days shorten and there is much less boat activity allowing maintenance and repair work to be undertaken. Our fleet have been checked over, maintenance planned in and made ready to survive the challenges that winter can bring.

As well as ourselves the Canal and River Trust who are the custodians of 2000 miles of canals in England and Wales are also busy maintaining the 200 year old canal network ready for our customers to enjoy next summer. 

This picture show some work currently going on at our local Long Buckby lock flight. When the chamber at Lock 10 was drained, the cill and surrounding concrete on the lower gate were in much worse condition so full replacement is underway.

In addition to the canal channel itself the canal infrastructure is made up of many different structures including locks, bridges, aqueducts, tunnels, culverts, weirs and reservoirs. These are all subject to regular inspections, repairs and maintenance which the Canal and River Trust carry out in the winter season, between November and March when fewer boats are cruising the waterways.

Check back again soon for future updates as we move into getting Knotweed and the rest of the fleet ready for action in 2021.

Which boat will you choose for your 2021 adventures?

Last chance break, there’s still time for a trip this year

27^th October 2020

Late autumn is a great time to venture out on a narrowboat. It is a quieter time with less people using the waterways. This gives you greater freedom for travelling and enjoying the picturesque countryside with its display of seasonal colours.

There are numerous country pubs located close to the canals on all our route options. These offer you the chance to relax in a traditional way, enjoying their individual atmosphere and delightful foods and beverages.   

If you are still craving a break away don’t delay. We still have booking slots available for late October and early November on a selection of centrally heated boats with all you need to keep you cosy. 

We follow industry guide lines adhering to stringent working practices and cleaning regimes so that everyone is as safe as possible throughout your trip which is reassuring in these times.

Which way will you head off?  

Brighten up your Autumn on a Canal Boat Break.

1^st September 2020

With the Autumn season just around the corner experience the joys of Narrowboating this October, take a break away on the Grand Union Canal.

There are numerous opportunities to further explore this scenic countryside along the towpaths, footpaths and bridleways offering numerous walking and cycling opportunities.

Soak up the magic of the peaceful countryside at this special time of year, enjoying the slow leisurely pace of life on board. End the day with a meal in a cosy canalside pub talking over the days events in front of an open fire.

With the English Canals quieter at this time of year it is hard to imagine a better time to venture out and explore the beauty and tranquillity of the Grand Union Canal.

Take the helm and navigate through your next adventure.

Dogs join in the fun

28^th July 2020

Have you been spending a lot more time with your furry friends during lock down?

With restrictions easing we are getting more freedom making it a great time to consider a dog friendly staycation.

Why not take a dog friendly narrowboat holiday with us and bring your beloved family pet along?

A canal holiday is the ideal break away with your four legged friend. The outdoor lifestyle is ideally suited to doggy life.

From sitting on the back of your narrowboat watching the world go by, or getting out for a walk on the miles of fantastically interesting towpaths you will all enjoy taking in the sights and sounds of boating life.

Whether it’s just a 3-4 day short break or a longer trip we can guarantee your furry friends will love it.

You will be joining our family of customers who have enjoyed dog friendly holidays together with their furry friends.