Best canal routes in the UK
Plan your perfect boating holiday on Britain's finest waterways
Posted on 25-03-25, updated on 16-06-25By: Sarah N. | 3 minute read
The Caledonian Canal running through Fort Augustus, a village on the southern tip of Loch Ness
Exploring Britain's best canals
On a canal boat holiday, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Drift into fascinating riverside cities to soak up some culture or moor up in the heart of the Great British countryside. Each waterway has its own unique character, from the gentle heartlands of England to the mountainous regions of Scotland and Wales.
Scroll down to find out more about some of the best canal routes in the UK.
Tip: Although formed of rivers and man-made lakes rather than canals, the Norfolk Broads are undoubtedly home to some of the UK's most impressive waterways. If you're looking for boating holidays on the Norfolk Broads, we have a range of cruisers in Wroxham and Horning, as well as house boats on the Norfolk Broads. You can also check out our guide to things to do on the Norfolk Broads for inspiration.
Views along the Kennet & Avon Canal in Bath
Kennet & Avon Canal
This scenic and historic waterway in the South of England runs through the counties of Wiltshire, Berkshire and Somerset. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath, or explore the historic towns, characterful pubs and sublime countryside of the Cotswolds and North Wessex Downs.
Narrow boats moored along the River Wey Navigation in Surrey
River Thames & Wey
This popular canal route combines the iconic River Thames, which runs through Gloucestershire and London, with the tranquil River Wey Navigation, which passes through the Surrey Hills. Take in the splendours of Hampton Court, Windsor Castle and the dreaming spires of Oxford. Stop at an old English pub and enjoy the rich countryside of Surrey and other areas on the outskirts of London.
Discover boat holidays on the River Thames & Wey.
Bridge over the River Ouse at St Ives in Cambridgeshire
Cambridgeshire Waterways
Drift 150 miles through tranquil low-flying fens, lush meadowland and quiet, unspoilt rivers along the Cambridgeshire Waterways. Visit historic Cambridge on the River Cam; explore wildlife havens like Ely and St Ives along the River Great Ouse; or stop off at pretty towns and villages like March and Wisbech along the River Nene.
The Brecon Canal Basin in the town of Brecon, Powys
Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal
A 35-mile stretch of picturesque waterway, this route is perfect for the canal boat beginner. It runs through the peaceful Usk Valley and the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, connecting Brecon in the north and Monmouth in the south.
The Caledonian Canal running through Fort Augustus, a village on the southern tip of Loch Ness
Scotland Lochs & Canals
Scotland has four major canals: the Caledonian Canal, the Union Canal, the Forth and Clyde Canal and the Crinan Canal. One of the most scenic is the 60-mile Caledonian Canal which runs through the Scottish Highlands. Head inland from Inverness to the foothills of Ben Nevis, through stunning freshwater lochs, including Loch Ness and the Great Glen.
The Oxford Canal in the village of Napton on the Hill, near Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire
Oxford & Midlands Canals
Drift from London to Birmingham through heritage cities and gentle landscapes. Moor up to explore historic battle sites and pretty villages as you go, or join popular walking and cycling trails in the Warwickshire and Northamptonshire countryside.
The Georgian canal town of Stourport on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal in the Heart of England
Heart of England Canals
Wind your way through beautiful, ancient shires, including Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Leicestershire and Worcestershire. This network of waterways is home to the Grand Union Canal, one of the most famous and important canals in the Heart of England, linking the South of England to the Midlands. Experience popular sights as you go, such as Drayton Manor, Worcester Cathedral, the World of Wedgewood and the Swan Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Aerial view of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, which carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee in the Vale of Llangollen
Cheshire Ring & Llangollen Canal
From the glorious Peak District landscapes and rolling Cheshire countryside to the outstanding natural beauty of Shropshire and picturesque Welsh town of Llangollen, the Cheshire Ring & Llangollen Canal offer some of the most scenic waterways in the whole of the UK.
Discover boat holidays on the Cheshire Ring & Llangollen Canal.
Find your perfect canal boating holiday
Discover our range of canal boats to start planning your holiday on the water.
About us
Welcome to Hoseasons, one of the UK’s leading self-catering accommodation specialists, home to over 30,000 places to stay throughout England, Scotland and Wales.
With 80 years of experience providing holiday homes to millions of customers, you can trust Hoseasons to help you find the perfect accommodation for your next UK break. We’re proud to be rated Excellent on Trustpilot, demonstrating our commitment to providing first-class customer service. We're committed to maintaining a high standard of service to our customers by abiding by ABTA's Code of Conduct.