Canal boat holidays for beginners: a complete guide

If you've been dreaming of a relaxed, scenic holiday on the water, but aren't sure where to start, then canal boat holidays are a fantastic choice. Canal boating is one of the most peaceful and picturesque ways to explore the countryside. And with the right preparation, anyone can enjoy it, even if you've never set foot on a boat. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful retreat with friends, a canal boat holiday offers something for everyone.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your first canal boat holiday, including the best routes and some useful tips.

The best canal routes for beginners

One of the best things about canal boat holidays is the abundance of beautiful routes to choose from. As a beginner, you’ll want to pick a route that’s not too challenging but still offers plenty of stunning views and interesting places to stop. Here’s a list of the best canal boat holidays for beginners in the UK:

1. The Kennet and Avon Canal

The Kennet and Avon Canal is one of the best canal boat holidays if you're just starting out. This beautiful canal links the River Avon in Bristol to the River Thames in London. The route is mostly flat with minimal locks, making it a great option to ease into the experience of boating. Along the way, you'll pass through charming villages, scenic countryside, and historic towns like Bath, a fantastic place to stop for sightseeing.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Relatively easy with few locks.
• Plenty of places to moor up for sightseeing or a leisurely walk.
• Beautiful scenery, including the famous city of Bath.

2. The Grand Union Canal

The Grand Union Canal is another fantastic option for beginners. It's one of the longest and most popular canals in the UK, stretching from London to Birmingham. While there are some locks along the way, they're generally spaced out and not too difficult to navigate. The canal passes through beautiful countryside, historic towns, and scenic villages, making it ideal for a relaxing canal boat holiday.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Easy-to-navigate locks.
• Plenty of facilities and stopping points.
• Beautiful countryside views.

3. The Llangollen Canal

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, the Llangollen Canal in Wales is an excellent choice. While it’s slightly more challenging, it’s still a manageable option for first-timers. The canal takes you through stunning valleys, mountains, and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, offering some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Stunning scenery with easy-to-navigate sections.
• The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a must-see highlight.
• Relatively quiet and peaceful.

4. The Oxford Canal

The Oxford Canal is another great option for beginners. It runs through the heart of England, linking the city of Oxford with Coventry, and is one of the most picturesque canals in the country. The route is mostly lock-free, making it ideal for anyone new to canal boating. The canal passes through rural landscapes, charming villages, and the historic city of Oxford, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore along the way.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Easy to navigate, with minimal locks.
• Peaceful countryside and quiet villages.
• Plenty of mooring opportunities.

5. The Caldon Canal

If you’re looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience, the Caldon Canal in Staffordshire is perfect. It’s a beautiful, tranquil canal that runs through the countryside, passing through small towns and villages. There are a few locks along the way, but the overall route is relatively easy. It’s an ideal choice if you want to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful boating holiday.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Quiet, peaceful route.
• Easy locks to navigate.
• Scenic countryside with plenty of stopping points.

Common questions for your first canal boat holiday

If you’ve never been on a canal boat before, there are a few things you’ll want to know to make your holiday as enjoyable and relaxing as possible.

How much do canal boat holidays cost?

The cost of a canal boat holiday depends on several things, including the time of year, the size of the boat, and the length of your trip. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from £500 to £1,500 for a week's hire of a narrowboat, with higher prices during peak season (usually summer and bank holidays). Make sure you compare prices from different hire companies and look for any special deals or discounts.

How many miles a day can you travel on a narrowboat?

On average, most narrowboat holidays cover around 4-6 hours of cruising per day. The speed of a narrowboat is typically around 3-4 miles per hour, meaning you can expect to travel between 12 to 15 miles in a day, depending on the route and conditions. As a beginner, it’s important to take things slow and allow plenty of time for breaks, sightseeing, and mooring.

What do I need to know before a canal boat holiday?

Before setting off on your canal boat holiday, it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of how the boat works, the routes you’ll be taking, and the types of locks you might come across. Most boat hire companies offer a briefing before you set off, where you’ll learn how to handle the boat, steer, and operate the locks. It's also wise to familiarise yourself with canal etiquette, such as giving way to other boats and keeping noise levels down.

Who can go on a canal boat holiday?

Canal boat holidays are suitable for almost everyone. Whether you're travelling with your partner, friends, or family, there's plenty of space on a narrowboat for everyone. Some hire companies even offer pet-friendly boats so that you can bring along your furry friends. While canal boats are typically family-friendly, it's important to note that young children and elderly people may need extra supervision on the boat, especially when navigating locks.

Are there cooking facilities on a canal boat?

Yes, most modern narrowboats have fully equipped kitchens, including a stove, microwave, fridge, and oven. This makes it easy to cook your own meals while on the water. But, space is limited, so cooking on a canal boat can be a bit of a challenge. Be prepared to keep things simple and consider bringing some pre-prepared meals for convenience.

What should I take on a canal boat holiday?

Packing for a canal boat holiday is all about simplicity. Here are some essentials to bring along:

• Clothing: Comfortable clothing and waterproofs.
• Food & Drink: Basics for cooking, plus any special treats or drinks.
• Entertainment: Books, games, or a deck of cards for relaxing evenings.
• Navigational Aids: Maps, canal guides, and maybe a GPS or phone app for route planning.

You can also find some great narrowboat accessories that can enhance your trip if you’re travelling long-term or if you’re planning on buying a narrowboat yourself.

Should we pick a route with locks on our first canal boat holiday?

While locks are an important part of canal boating, beginners may want to choose a route with fewer locks to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Some routes, like the Oxford Canal or Kennet and Avon Canal, have fewer locks and are easier for beginners to manage. If you’re feeling confident after your first few days, you can always tackle more challenging routes with more locks.

What is the difference between a ring route and an out-and-back Route?

A ring route is a circular route that starts and ends at the same point, which means you can travel along different sections of the canal without going back on yourself. This is ideal if you want to see as much as possible and avoid the same scenery on the way back. An out-and-back route involves cruising to a specific point and returning the same way. It's generally more relaxing and less stressful for beginners who prefer to take things at their own pace.

What’s the best time of year to go on a canal boat holiday?

The best time for canal boat holidays in the UK is typically between late spring and early autumn (May to September). The weather is generally warmer, and the canals are more likely to be busy with other boaters, making it a vibrant and social experience. It's also possible to enjoy a canal boat holiday in the low season, but you may have colder weather and fewer boats on the water.

How can I choose a hire base?

Choosing a hire base depends on the route you want to take, your level of experience, and the facilities you need. Look for hire bases with a good reputation and those that offer boats that suit your needs, and you can even use an agent like Roam & Roost Canal Boat Holidays to help you choose. Make sure to read reviews and check the boat hire company's website for more information on their fleet, customer service, and location. You could also read a guide for planning your canal boat holiday to ensure you're fully prepared.

Specialist narrowboat insurance through Insure4Boats

If you fall in love with boating and decide to buy your first canal boat, you may want to consider getting specialist narrowboat insurance to provide financial protection and peace of mind.

With Insure4Boats, the cover protects your boat against theft, accidental damage, malicious damage, and salvage charges.

You can also opt to include Third Party Liability and contents protection, so you have nothing to worry about when cruising the waterways.

Find out more about specialist narrowboat insurance, or get an instant online quote today.