A boating holiday on the Cambridgeshire waterways opens up a whole new world of relaxed pleasure as 150 miles of tranquil, unspoilt rivers wind gently through lush meadowland and low-lying fens, passing some of Britain's loveliest cities and towns …

The start point for wonderful cruising is the River Ouse at Ely – a delightful, historic city, renowned for its magnificent cathedral and as the setting for Oliver Cromwell's house. Heading south onto the River Cam, your cruise will take you to Wicken Fen, a wildlife haven where you can follow mown paths and nature trails in 700 acres of wetland nature reserve.

Don't miss the chance to explore Cambridge on your boating holiday – moor up and discover all that this fascinating city has to offer. Wander round the ancient university buildings (you might be lucky enough to catch choir practice in King's College Chapel), visit the Fitzwilliam Museum and stroll along the banks of the Cam behind the famous ‘Backs' of the colleges, then relax in one of the city's many excellent cafés and restaurants.

Cruise along the western stretches of the River Ouse and you'll discover many charming riverside villages with welcoming waterfront inns, and the picturesque country towns of Huntington, St Neots and St Ives are all well worth exploring. Longer boating holidays can also take in a trip to Brampton National Hunt Racecourse before mooring in Bedford, the town where John Bunyan famously wrote Pilgrim's Progress while imprisoned in the local jail. It also offers good shopping, art galleries and a fine museum.