After 18 months of Motorhoming, Ann and I were slightly disappointed in what it offered, but more about that on our Motorhome blog. Both of us wanted to get back afloat.
We wanted to get back afloat, but not in a yacht and not at sea. The obvious choice would be in the French Canals, but Brexit ended that. I will never forgive those stupid 17.1 million people who voted to leave the EU. Taking away my freedom of movement was criminal. Enough about that.
So, the idea popped into our heads: why not the UK canals? Back in the early 1990s, Ann and I took a narrowboat holiday, and we enjoyed it, so we joined some Facebook groups and researched the issue.
It all sounded terrific; we imagined gliding through tranquil waters, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle hum of nature. Members of the Groups made us feel that the UK’s narrowboat canals offer an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, providing a unique way to explore the country’s picturesque countryside and historic towns.
The way they were talking it did not matter whether you’re a seasoned boater or a first-time cruiser, navigating these charming waterways promises a memorable adventure filled with peace, beauty, and timelessness.
A Brief History of the UK Canals
Researching further the UK’s canal system dates to the late 18th and early 19th centuries, during the Industrial Revolution. These man-made waterways were initially constructed to transport goods across the country, such as coal, iron, and textiles. The intricate network of canals played a crucial role in Britain’s industrial growth, connecting major cities and towns.
Today, these historic canals have been repurposed for leisure and tourism. The most famous of them, like the Grand Union Canal, the Kennet and Avon Canal, and the Llangollen Canal, attract thousands yearly visitors. They offer a glimpse into the past while providing a serene environment for boating enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
These Facebook Groups sold us on the Joys of Narrowboating
Most content on the groups described cruising on a narrowboat as a unique experience. These long, slender boats, typically ranging from 50 to 70 feet long and almost 7 feet in width, are perfectly designed to navigate the narrow waterways. Here’s a roundup of the comments as to why cruising the UK canals on a narrowboat is such a delightful experience:
1. Scenic Beauty
One of the greatest joys of canal cruising is the ever-changing scenery. As you meander through the waterways, you’ll encounter rolling hills, verdant fields, and charming villages. Each stretch of canal offers something different, from dense woodlands and wildlife habitats to open landscapes and panoramic views.
2. A Slow-Paced Adventure
In a world where speed often defines our daily lives, narrowboating offers a refreshing change of pace. Narrowboats travel at a leisurely speed of about 4 miles per hour, allowing you to soak in the surroundings and enjoy the journey. This unhurried pace provides ample time to relax, unwind, and truly appreciate the beauty of the countryside.
3. Close Encounters with Wildlife
The canals are teeming with wildlife. As you cruise along, you’re likely to spot ducks, swans, herons, and kingfishers. The waterways also provide a habitat for otters, water voles, and a variety of fish. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find the canals a haven for observing and photographing wildlife in their natural habitat.
4. Historic Landmarks and Architecture
The UK’s canals are lined with historic landmarks, including old mills, aqueducts, and iconic canal-side pubs. The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct on the Llangollen Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a marvel of engineering and offers stunning views from its elevated position. Similarly, the Caen Hill Locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal present an impressive flight of 29 locks, showcasing the ingenuity of canal builders.
5. Charming Canal-Side Villages
Along your journey, you’ll encounter quaint villages and market towns, each with its own unique character. These settlements often have traditional pubs, tea rooms, and shops where you can stop for a meal or pick up local produce. Places like Stoke Bruerne, Braunston, and Skipton are perfect examples of canal-side communities that welcome boaters with open arms.
We were ready to Embrace the Canal Culture
The canal community seem to be friendly with a sense of camaraderie. As you cruise along, you’ll likely encounter other boaters, walkers, and cyclists who share a love for the waterways. The etiquette of canal cruising involves a spirit of cooperation and consideration. Help fellow boaters with locks, share a smile and a wave, and take the time to chat with locals and other cruisers. A bit like the sailing community we through, this will be great.
Canal-side pubs and eateries are integral to the canal culture. These establishments often have a warm and welcoming atmosphere, offering hearty meals and a chance to mingle with locals. Many pubs have mooring facilities, making them convenient stops for lunch or an evening meal.
Our Conclusion: The Magic of Narrowboating Was for Us
Cruising the UK’s narrowboat canals felt right; we did not want to just holiday; we wanted an opportunity to continue to connect with nature just as we did on Ruffles Spray. The tranquillity of the waterways, the beauty of the landscapes, and the charm of the canal-side communities would put us right back into the boating community, but this time on the canals.
If you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an adventure, or a solo retreat, the narrowboat canals of the UK could be the way forward and offer a unique and magical journey. So, join Ann and me as we set sail on our narrowboat journey and read about how this new chapter in our lives will pan out. You’ll get the full story with all the ups and downs.
Our next decision to make was to answer the following questions. What length of narrowboat? Were we going to live aboard again or just use the boat for leisure or for longer cruises and just short trips up and down the canal from a marina mooring? How much were we willing to spend on a narrowboat? Our next blog post I will continue the story.
