8 things to see and do on Britain's canals

If you're new to canal boating, or an old hand, there are always new places to explore and well-loved ones to revisit.

Things to do on Britain's canals

On a canal 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 English countryside. Each waterway has its own unique character, from the gentle heartlands of England, the mountainous regions of Scotland and Wales to the splendour of the Peaks. Here are our top eight things to do on our great British canals.

Kennet & Avon Canals 1

Kennet & Avon Canals

Explore the World Heritage City of Bath, historic towns, character pubs and sublime countryside of the Cotswolds and North Wessex Downs.

River Thames 2

River Thames

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.

Cambridgeshire Waterways 3

Cambridgeshire Waterways

Drift 150 miles through tranquil low-flying fens, lush meadowland and quiet, unspoilt rivers. Enjoy historic towns, wildlife havens and pretty villages along the way.

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal 4

Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal

A 35-mile stretch of picturesque waterway, this route is perfect for the canal boat beginner, through the peaceful Usk Valley and the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park.

Scotland Lochs and Canals 5

Scotland Lochs and Canals

Head inland from Inverness to the foothills of Ben Nevis, through stunning freshwater lochs, including Loch Ness and the Great Glen, along the sixty-mile long Caledonian Canal.

Oxford and Midlands Canals 6

Oxford and Midlands Canals

Drift from London to Birmingham through heritage cities and gentle landscapes. Explore historic battle sites and pretty villages as you go by.

Heart of England Canals 7

Heart of England Canals

Wind your way through six beautiful, ancient shires and experience Drayton Manor, Worcester Cathedral, the World of Wedgewood and the Swan Theatre at Stratford-upon-Avon.

Cheshire Ring and Llangollen Canal 8

Cheshire Ring and Llangollen Canal

From the glorious Peak District landscapes and rolling Cheshire countryside, to the vibrant, regenerated Manchester waterfront, enjoy areas of outstanding natural beauty and unique city culture.

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A selection of these images were sourced from Visit England / Visit Britain Images