union canal boat trips

Falkirk Base – Edinburgh and return

Falkirk base, edinburgh and return canal boat holiday hire.

Falkirk Wheel, Locks and Tunnel

The Union Inn

Avon Aqueduct

Linlithgow Palace and Loch

Niddry Castle (Privately Owned)

Almond Aqueduct

Ratho (Edinburgh Canal Centre)

Edinburgh Quay

66 Miles | 6 Locks | 1 Week Cruise | 3 hours per day

The journey begins at the Falkirk Wheel, situated halfway between Edinburgh and Glasgow and the Forth and Clyde canal which is one of the most stunning backdrops to any canal in the UK. The Wheel is the world’s first rotating boat lift, cost £17million and is the height of eight double-decker buses, 115 feet wide and 100 feet long.

After leaving the Falkirk Wheel you will travel down the Union Canal, which was originally used as a commercial waterway to transport coal before its closure in 1930. Your cruise will then take you over the magnificent Almond Aqueduct, which is 420 feet long and carries the Union Canal 76 feet above the River Almond.

Your boat hire journey lets you explore Scotland’s villages of Linlithgow and Ratho. Linlithgow is an ancient royal burgh, which lies south of two famous landmarks, Linlithgow Palace and Linlithgow Loch.

Linlithgow Palace is arguably Scotland’s finest surviving late medieval building and was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. The grounds are home to a beautiful public park known as The Peel, which is perfect for picnics.

Linlithgow lock is popular for water sports and is also a notable spot for bird watching. It is three-quarters of a mile long and contains a fishery.

Your final canal holiday destination is Ratho, which is home to the Edinburgh Canal Centre. This popular stop has two restaurant boats and the much-loved Bridge Inn.

If you head into Edinburgh there are many incredible attractions to seek out. The most famous of these is the stunning Edinburgh Castle which overlooks the Royal Mile, the oldest section of Edinburgh and home to a number of important landmarks, tourist shops and lots of ghostly tours. If you have time, tour the Scotch Whisky Experience as part of your Edinburgh canal boat hire and enjoy the amazing optical illusions that are a feature of Camera Obscura – both attractions are close to the castle.

A short list of other popular landmarks to visit on boat trips includes the National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill, the Scott Monument at the Prince Street Gardens and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

Book our Edinburgh and return canal boat holiday by using our online Availability Search, or by calling Black Prince on 01527 575 115.

ROVER TICKET

If traveling from Falkirk a rover ticket will be charged by Scottish Canals for use of the canals. This will be a flat charge of £25 for any holiday over three nights. Use up to three days will be charged at £15. This ticket will be administered by Scottish Canals through their website and office. Payment will be taken on the first day of the holiday at the office in Falkirk.

Other canal boat hire routes from this base

Glasgow & Edinburgh canal boat holiday

Edinburgh and return canal boat holiday hire

Falkirk Short Route

NEED HELP PLANNING YOUR ADVENTURE? HAVE A QUESTION?

Call today on ++44 (0)1527 575 115 and a Black Prince team member will be happy to help!

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Take a trip along the historic and picturesque Grand Union Canal & through Blisworth Tunnel in our hospitable narrowboat 'Indian Chief'. The purpose built trip boat was named after the last traditional narrowboat in the Woodward family's cargo carrying fleet.

See suggested trips for more information.

• Santa Cruises

Throughout December: Depart from The Boat Inn for an 80 minute cruise through Blisworth Tunnel in our narrowboat 'Indian Chief' to Blisworth, where Santa will join the boat for the return journey, meet each child and give them a present.

Indian Chief

Trips are available from half an hour (Blisworth Tunnel & Return) up to six hours long, including the Blisworth Tunnel experience. Light buffets and teas are also available by arrangement. See suggested trips for more information.

Grand Union Canal

Dug over 200 years ago by the original 'navvies' (short for 'navigators'), the Grand Union Canal was the main commercial lifeline between London and the Midlands before the development of the railways.

Comfortable Interior

• Cushioned Seating
• Fully Stocked Bar
• CD/Aux connection
• PA System (including Microphone)
• Central Heating
• Flush Toilet
• Wheelchair Facilities
• Buffets and selctive drinks can be made available.

Blisworth Tunnel

At 2800 meters long (1¾ miles), Blisworth Tunnel is the longest continous open-bore canal tunnel in the UK. Construction was started in 1793 in order to link London to the industrial Midlands through a chain of navigable waterways. The tunnel has a harrowing history, with many tragic events as it was built. Even today, boat users report strange lights in the gloom and cries of workers lost during the construction.

Available Boat Trips

• Suggested Trips

Boat Trip Menu

• Group Dining & Buffet

Bar & Restaurant Menus

• Bar & Bistro Menu
• Breakfast Menu (served til midday)
• Woodward's Restaurant Menu

• Contact IWA

Lochrin Basin, Union Canal

Accessible for local, portable and trailable craft

Silver Propeller Challenge

Visit Lochrin Basin on the Edinburgh and Glasgow Union Canal by boat or canoe.

It has been chosen as a Silver Propeller Location to encourage visitors to explore the far end of the Union Canal. A photo of your boat or canoe at Lochrin Basin in Edinburgh will be a good proof of your visit, or by Leamington Lift Bridge if access through the bridge is not available at the time of your visit.

Complete our challenge by visiting 20 locations from our list, you will receive our exclusive plaque and goody bag.

About the Union Canal

The Edinburgh & Glasgow Union Canal, to give it its full name, runs from the Forth & Clyde Canal at Falkirk to a terminus in Edinburgh.  It opened in 1822 to improve the carriage of coal and other minerals into Edinburgh. The canal was 32 miles (51.2km) long with 11 locks climbing up the hill at Falkirk to the long contour summit level with several notable aqueducts. Traffic on the canal started to seriously decline after the closure in 1921 of the main basins in Edinburgh and the canal officially closed to traffic in 1933.

The Forth & Clyde and Union canals were restored to navigation in 2001 following National Lottery funding as a Millennium project.  The original locks at Falkirk had been built over and a landmark boat lift was a new part of the restoration. The Falkirk Wheel, now one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions, is the only rotating boat lift in the world. A single lock and the wheel raise boats up to a tunnel under the Roman Antoine Wall with a double staircase lock onto the summit level. The Union Canal now has 3 locks, the Falkirk wheel and is a mile shorter since the last portion in Edinburgh has been lost.

[ Photo – The terminus of the Union Canal in Edinburgh  –  by Jonathan Mosse ]

Notes for visitors

Postcode: EH11 1JQ

What3words /// films.actor.above

Boat Dimensions

The maximum size of boat that can navigate the Union Canal is:-

Length: 70′ 0″ (21.34m) Beam: 12′ 0″ (3.66m) Height: 9′ 0″ (2.13m) Draught: 3′ 0″ (0.91m)

Canoeing, Hire Boats and Trip Boats

Canoeing is encouraged on Scottish Canals; since locks are not used a licence is not required.  There is a well mapped Glasgow to Edinburgh Canoe Trail .

Scottish Canals recommends that all paddlers register with them in advance.

Several boat hire companies have boats based at Falkirk.

Re-Union Canal Boats (part of Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust) offer trips from Edinburgh Quay.

Challenge Location

Lochrin Basin

Union Canal

Discover more nearby, edinburgh & glasgow union canal, forth & clyde canal, iwa in scotland, related activities, stirling, river forth, rutherglen, river clyde, bowling basin, forth & clyde canal, the kelpies, forth & clyde canal, port dundas, glasgow, waterway underfunding, hundreds of miles of waterways – along with their unique heritage and habitats – are currently starved of funding and rely on constant lobbying by us to safeguard their future., sustainable boating, we want boating on canals and rivers to be more sustainable and – even though the current overall contribution to uk carbon emissions is very small – we want to help reduce emissions on the waterways., waterways heritage at risk, britain’s canals and rivers are a unique, living heritage. but that heritage is at risk – from urban development, lack of protection, loss of skills and knowledge and climate change. you can help save waterways heritage., waterway restoration, restoring the uk’s blue infrastructure – our inherited network of navigable canals and rivers – is good for people and places., love your waterways.

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Skippered trips & boat charters

Skippered trip boats, charter boats

Canal trip boats & party charter boats

Skippered canal trip boats are great on a day out. Trip boats run short scheduled canal pleasure cruises, usually lasting an hour or two, that you can often just turn up and join.

• You get a cruise along a canal usually with a guide onboard pointing out interesting things to see.
• Trip boats have a skipper and crew and will often provide onboard food & refreshments.
• Some are based at popular visitor centres, others in town and city centres.
• Many canal trip boats also offer  chartered cruises  for just your party, which must be booked in advance. Some offer trips for school groups, business hire, party cruises & wedding receptions.
• Some charities run specially adapted accessible trip boats for people with disabilities.

Chesterfield Canal

Chesterfield Canal Trust,  Charter boat trips, children's pirate trips and Santa trips. Hot and cold drinks, toilet, central heating. 4 trip boats based at Retford, Worksop, Hollingwood and Chesterfield.

Montgomery Canal

Huelwen Trust  Day canal boat trips in Welshpool along the Monty with the Heulwen Trust (disabled people travel free). Visit our website for details.

Lancaster Canal

Kingfisher Cruises A two centre operation covering the Lancaster canal. Including the popular Lune aqueduct cruises from Lancaster and horse-drawn boats, evening entertainment and private hire from Barton Grange Marina.

Llangollen Canal

Lyneal Trust  provides day canal boat trips for people with disabilities, vulnerabilities, or illness, and their families and friends, on board the specially designed Shropshire Lady on the Llangollen Canal.

Shropshire Union Canal

Norbury Wharf . Enjoy the heart of the beautiful Shropshire Union Canal aboard our 42 seater trip boat, all year public & charter trips. Just 15 minutes from junction 14 M6, or junction 3 M54, a cruise to remember!

Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Enjoy a relaxing holiday with  Pennine Cruisers  of Skipton. Daily 30-minute trips on 'Leo' up Springs Branch to Skipton Castle. A unique experience in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. Runs all year round.

Lee Navigation

River Lee Cruises  operate charter cruises on a beautiful stretch of the River Lee in Hertfordshire, offering catered party trips, discos, business lunches, wedding receptions, jazz cruises and outings.

Grand Union Canal

Stoke Bruerne Boat Co.  Skippered regular 'booking not needed' public trips from outside the famous Stoke Bruerne Museum, plus skippered charters and school trips. Also skippered evening cruises & day boat hire.

Regents Canal

The Pirate Castle  for Canal Boat Adventure on London's Canals. Fun for all ages. Work the locks - steer the boat - watch the world go by. Skippered trips for up to 12 passengers.

Waterways Experiences . Day or residential crewed boat trips from Hemel Hempstead, charter only. All 3 wide-beam boats designed for wheelchair access. New volunteers welcome to help with crewing, marketing, IT etc.

Canal Boat Steering - How to Move Your Boat

Tales from the Tillerman

Nicholson Boating Handbook

Inland Cruising

Our listings.

We provide contact telephone and email details free of charge for canal based companies, click for details. Please note: We provide all contact details as an information service. We rely on traders to keep us informed about these listings so we can't guarantee that details are accurate or up to date. Please see our Terms of Use .

Birmingham Canal Navigations

Birmingham and warwick junction canal, bridgewater canal, cromford canal, dudley canal, east anglia, forth & clyde canal, grantham canal, huddersfield narrow canal, kennet and avon canal, macclesfield canal, ripon canal, river nene & cambridgeshire waterways, river severn, river stour, river trent, river witham & fossdyke and witham navigation, sheffield and tinsley canal, staffs and worcs canal, trent and mersey canal, wey navigation & basingstoke canal, wyrley & essington canal.

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A floating afternoon tea on Edinburgh’s Union Canal

Travel Time:

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Edinburgh & Lothian

Chapter One

Union of genius, novapizza vegetarian kitchen, hendersons salad table, edinburgh books, hula juice bar, travellers journeys nearby, exploring edinburgh in the haar, a stroll around dean village, a day trip to fife's east neuk, the mighty red squirrel, exploring the glasshouses at glasgow botanic gardens, local inspiration, from fields to form: an insightful conversation with basketmaker anna liebmann, cultivating scottish willow and crafting timeless baskets, blooming beauty: seilich skincare’s wild journey from scottish meadows to radiant skin, inside albys: edinburgh’s sandwich shop success story, agnes randolph and the siege of dunbar castle, cambuskenneth abbey and the disinherited, edinburgh castle and the black dinner, a prince’s murder at falkland palace, meet sara, owner of castaway, best picnic spots in edinburgh, secret gardens in edinburgh’s city centre, the best restaurant in scotland named in national awards, edinburgh’s lesser-known museums, a daring escape from dalkeith palace, a royal warning at linlithgow palace, a slow travel guide to culross, meet stephanie lothian, co-owner of williamstone farm steadings, april in edinburgh, meet illustrator emily hogarth, the scottish seawolf of culross, march in edinburgh, crawford priory’s ghostly menagerie, the defence of dunbar castle, explore the world’s first digital unesco trail, february in edinburgh, january in edinburgh, december in edinburgh, doom & gloom at castle campbel, november in edinburgh, win an overnight stay at dunstane houses in edinburgh, fife’s hidden gems, october in edinburgh, the secrets buried in roslin glen, the murderous craigmillar bond, old edinburgh’s unlikely criminal, lochend park, newhailes house, the jacobite garrison of the bass rock, the 16 best castles to visit near edinburgh, corstorphine walled garden, tantallon castle and the 1st earl of douglas, jupiter artland, meet laura wilson, owner of the dundonald guesthouse and cottage, melrose abbey and robert the bruce’s heart, thomas randolph and the capture of edinburgh castle, st monans church, edinburgh hotels, the coastal villages of fife, duddingston village, the great hall in the scottish national portrait gallery, dunbar’s close, the stockbridge duck race, the meadows, the national museum of scotland, 5 surprising facts about stockbridge, how edinburgh changed the world: the scottish enlightenment, getting to edinburgh, the stockbridge colonies, dean village: a peaceful oasis on the doorstep of the city, the history of edinburgh’s stockbridge, why is edinburgh called ‘the athens of the north’, the history of the new town, the history of edinburgh’s old town, the creation of victoria street, 5 surprising facts about the grassmarket, the last hanging, the history of the grassmarket.

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Take a cruise on the Grand Union Canal

Pitstone, buckinghamshire.

Get on-board for a leisurely cruise into the heart of the Chiltern Hills, enjoying impressive views of the Buckinghamshire countryside.

Grebe Canal Cruises start from the village of Pitstone allowing guests to meander along the canal as it climbs over the Chiltern Hills towards Bulbourne, on its way southwards towards London. For a short trip, Grebe offer a variety of options including a 90 minute cruise, a two-hour lunch or dinner cruise, and a three-hour cream tea or afternoon tea cruise. If you are looking for a longer trip, self-steer day boats can be hired for up to 12 people or you can book exclusive use of one of the fully enclosed boats meaning that you can sail come rain or shine.

• Find out about Grebe Canal Cruises and plan your visit
• Find accommodation and things to do in Buckinghamshire

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Explore charming English countryside from Henley-on-Thames to Hambleden Valley on a hired electric bike.

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Union Canal Tunnel Park

The Union Canal Tunnel, owned by the Lebanon County Historical Society, is the oldest existing transportation tunnel in the United States. From 1827 to 1885 the Union Canal linked the commercial centers of Harrisburg, Reading, and by extension, the port of Philadelphia. The park serves the tunnel and the only remaining 5/8 mile section of the original canal through Lebanon with an open 110 acre recreational area.

Did you know?

The union canal tunnel park, dedicated in 1988, is now comprised of more than 100 acres of recreational and historic lands, open to the public and maintained by the volunteers of the friends of the union canal tunnel park., plan your visit.

The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk. Picnic tables and benches can be found throughout the park. There is a pavilion available to rent for events or may be used by guests if it isn’t reserved.

It is one of few parks that has over 90% grass or wood chipping trails located throughout the park on either side of the canal. There are two connection points to the Lebanon Valley Rail Trail with bike racks.

There is no admission charge.

Union Canal Tunnel Park Map

Narrated Canal Tours

Tours run June through the second Sunday in October, weather permitting. Please check our Facebook Page or call 717-272-1473 to confirm dates and times. $10/Adult, $5/Student (ages 6-17). Children 5 and under ride FREE.

Kayak Tours

Thanks to our partnership with Cocoa Kayak Rentals , you can join us for a calm paddle and a history lesson, as a local historian shares the history and knowledge of the canal and surrounding area. The 2024 Kayaking Tour Dates will be posted as soon as they are available.

Private Group Tours

Group rides are offered for parties with a minimum of 10.  The boat’s maximum capacity is 20 passengers.

Private tour rate:  $150 for up to 20 passengers / $125 for additional tours.

School/Student groups:  $100 for up to 20 passengers / $75 for additional tours.

No reserved tours on Sundays.  Tours must be scheduled and PAID at least 2 weeks in advance.

Please contact the Historical Society at [email protected] or call 717-272-1473 to make your reservation.

Pavilion Rentals

The Park and Haak Pavilion are available for rental for class reunions, family gatherings, weddings and special events. Security Deposit $100

• Haak pavilion rental for events is $130.
• Pavilion and Grounds rental for Weddings is $230.
• Grounds without pavilion rental is $100.

Special events are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us for pricing. For group reservations and more information, e-mail [email protected] or call the Historical Society office 717-272-1473 .

Pets are welcomed but must remain leashed at all times. Pet owners are responsible for clean-up and carry out of pet droppings.

25th Street and Union Canal Drive, Lebanon, Pennsylvania

Parking: The primary parking lot is located at the main Park entrance at the intersection of 25th St. and Union Canal Drive.

From the Pennsylvania Turnpike and PA-72: Take exit 266 toward PA-72/Lebanon/Lancaster, and turn left to get on PA-72 N. Continue 7.6 miles and turn left onto Cumberland St. (422W). Turn right at 25th St. and proceed 0.9 miles through the traffic light and stone tunnel under the railroad tracks, and turn left into the parking lot at the intersection of 25th St. and Union Canal Drive.

From I-81: Take exit 90 toward Fisher Ave, and turn left onto Fisher. Turn right toward PA-72 S and right again to take PA-72 S. Turn right at 22nd St. following the directional signs, then turn right onto Union Canal Dr. to the parking lot at the intersection of 25th St. and Union Canal Drive.

From I-78: Take exit 8 for US-22 W toward PA-343/Lebanon. Keep right and follow signs for Fredericksburg, then merge onto US-22 W. Turn left at PA-343, go 6.6 miles and turn right at Maple St., and continue west onto Rt 72 N, then left on 22nd St following the directional signs, then turn right onto Union Canal Dr. to the parking lot at the intersection of 25th St. and Union Canal Drive.

From Points East via US-422: Enter Lebanon and drive through on Cumberland St. Turn right at 25th St. and proceed 0.9 miles through the traffic light and stone tunnel under the railroad tracks, and turn left into the parking lot at the intersection of 25th St. and Union Canal Drive.

From Points West (including Harrisburg and I-83 via 581, and US-322) via US-422: Drive through Annville and Cleona, and then turn left at 25th St. and proceed 0.9 miles through the traffic light and stone tunnel under the railroad tracks, and turn left into the parking lot at the intersection of 25th St. and Union Canal Drive.

2024 Union Canal Day

May 18th, 9 am to 7 pm.

Take a narrated boat tour through the oldest transportation tunnel in the United States during the 34th Annual Union Canal Day. This event will now be held one day only.

Check out the exhibitors, vendors, and listen to some live music. Take a chance on a basket at the raffle table or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many picnic tables throughout the park.

Park History

Dug through the ridge dividing the waters of the Quittapahilla Creek and Clark’s Run, the tunnel was originally 729 feet long. Drilling was done by hand and blasting with gunpowder through argillaceous slate rock with veins of hard flinty limestone 80 feet below the summit of the ridge. Progress of the work was 5 yards lineal per week. Work began May 1825 and was completed in June 1827, at a total cost of $30,404.29. The tunnel’s length was reduced to 600 feet during the canal enlargement in 1858 at a cost of $8,280.00. Simeon Guilford was the engineer in charge, with John B. Ives as contractor. The first boat to pass through the tunnel was The Alpha of Tulpehocken on the morning of June 12, 1827. Boats were poled through the tunnel against the ceiling, while the mules were led over the top of the ridge.

In the early 1930s, the Civil Works Administration (CWA) worked on restoring the Tunnel, and the stone marker was dedicated. The boulder was brought by a sled with horses from the South Mountain near Colebrook.  On December 29, 1933, upon request of the Lebanon County Historical Society, the Eastern Real Estate Company, successor in title to the Union Canal Company, granted the Lebanon County Historical Society the right to enter upon the property and take steps to preserve the engineering monument.

In April, 1950, the Historical Society completed the purchase of the Tunnel and adjacent property.

Designated a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1970, this tunnel is the oldest existing transportation tunnel in the United States. At the time of its construction, it was considered a work almost unknown in this country.

The North Side was purchased in 1992.

The Union Canal Tunnel was designated a National Historic Landmark by the Secretary of the Interior on April 19, 1994.

Renovation took place from 1998 to 2000, which included dredging of the canal to Clark’s Run and the restoration of the North Portal. The Tunnel was opened for the first trip in September 2000.

The rest of the North Side was developed in 2005 and 2006, which included the building of the bridge and the dam, the dredging of the canal from Clark’s Run to Minnich Lane and planting of the trees. On September 9, 2006, the North section of the Park, located across Tunnel Hill Road, was dedicated and opened to the public.

Family Hire Boats from a Family Company

❤️Lovely Location to Start a Holiday with Lots of Choice Routes❤️

❤️1968 – 2024 56 Years We Have Welcomed Thousands of People to the Waterways ❤️

We have 17 well-appointed canal hire boats, suitable for all group sizes from 2 to 12 people and available for short break, week or longer holidays.

Click here for boat details

Click the link below to check pricing, availability and book your holiday. For more advice and information

phone (+44) 1788 890784 or

email [email protected] .

Book Now or Check Availability

Union Canal Carriers’ base in Braunston provides 10 different routes, ranging from relaxing to something more energetic. Some routes are nearly lock free, whilst others have multiple locks and tunnels to negotiate.

Where Can I Go?

Download our extensive brochure here to find out more about our range of boats and frequently asked questions. Or request a brochure in the post by using the contact us page or phone +44(0)1788 890784

Download the Brochure

What Our Guests Say

Enjoyed it immensely boat easy to handle level of comfort was excellent

We had a lovely holiday and a lot of it is down to friendly, personal service from you and the team

Very helpful to have John escort us on the first locks

Thanks for a great week looking forward to next year

Thank you it was amazing.  

"Brilliant first time boating holiday. Kids thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff were very friendly and helpful. We'll definitely be coming again!"

"Very helpful, friendly welcome. A wonderful week on a beautiful boat. Many thanks."

"The entire experience was wonderful. Thank you very much."

Gary and Debbie

"Thank you so much for making our first holiday with our baby so special. Staff went the extra mile to help and make us feel comfortable on our first boating holiday. Can't wait to come again!"

David, Hannah, Sophie and baby Ted

"Many thanks to John and Tim who were fantastic with instructions before we set off. Very friendly and welcoming. We had a FAB time! Thanks guys."

Union Canal Carriers is a family run hire boat company celebrating 55 years in business. We understand all about family canal holidays. Over the years we have taken our own children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and friends on boating holidays. Our small fleet of boats are built and fitted out by ourselves at our boat yard in Braunston meaning that each boat is unique. Our staff are all boat owners with experience of living and working on the canals.  We not only love welcoming experienced boaters aboard, but pride ourselves on the thorough tutorials which we give to new boaters, ensuring everyone feels completely comfortable and well informed throughout their holiday. We are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you know you are in safe hands. If you’ve ever wondered what it must be like ‘Barging around Britain’ like John Sargent, or ‘The Great Canal Journeys’ that Timothy West and Prunella Scales love so much, then why not give us a call +44 (0)1788 890784.

Location, Location, Location….

Braunston is a busy canal village set in Northamptonshire’s rolling green countryside. Its church, with its splendid steeple, can be seen for miles around and is one reason it is called the ‘Cathedral of the Canals’. Braunston Junction, with its twinned black and white cast iron bridges, is famous across the canal network as the Junction of the Oxford Canal and the Grand Union Canal. Union Canal Carriers is a picturesque boatyard at the bottom of Braunston Locks and unlike many hire bases, ours is actually situated on the towpath. There is no large, impersonal marina full of boats, just a small interesting collection of historic buildings, recognised for their part in canal heritage. The surrounding countryside is fascinating, with lots of geocaches to hunt for and the Jurassic Way crossing the canal just a little further on from the boatyard.  With multiple different routes to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect one for your party, whether it’s a leisurely cruise or a more an energetic holiday.

Wide Choice of Boats

We have several choices of narrowboats available for weekend, midweek, week or longer holidays, sleeping from 2 to 12 people. Our 3 Barney Boats are unique in the fleet and look very much like private boats, with their coal fires, rose and castle designs and single cylinder engine giving the satisfying ‘pop pop’ sound of a traditional canal boat.

We believe a boat should be handcrafted to cut through the water well, aiding steerage, with a quality interior and the vital large outdoor space. You are welcome to come over and take a look around our boats – please ring to check availability of the boat of your choice. Many customers come back year after year –  to find out why call +44(0)1788 890784 and speak to one of our knowledgeable, friendly team about boating holidays, and how we can help you.

REGENTS CANAL WATERBUS

Enjoy london from a different perspective.

Discover a unique london WATERWAY with a REGENT’S CANAL WATERBUS boat trip between LITTLE VENICE & CAMDEN MARKET

Our classic 45 minute one-way trips operate in either direction

Live English language guided tour commentary

The Regent’s canal opened in 1820, linking the Grand Union Canal and the River Thames at Limehouse, providing a once vital industrial transport route.

Today the canal has become a leisure corridor navigated by leisure boats and lined with live-aboard houseboats.

Our route travels between Little Venice in Maida Vale and vibrant Camden Town where you’ll find the world-famous Camden Market sites.

We pass through the grounds of London Zoo and through the echoey depths of the Madia Hill tunnel

Each boat has large slide-to-open windows, so everyone gets a view.

As we pass through the grounds of London Zoo, look out for the African hunting dogs known as painted wolves, which can often be seen as we pass their canal-side enclosure, as well as their warthog neighbours. On the opposite side, you can see the imposing structure of the repurposed Snowdon Aviary which is now part of Monkey Valley, home to playful Colobus monkeys, as a walk through zoo exhibit.

You can see expansive landscaped gardens of stately mansion houses and classic modern villas contrasted with industrial buildings, a power station and historical architecture including ornamental iron bridges such Macclesfield ‘blow up’ bridge.

From modern-day urban graffiti, unique architecture and industrial heritage to landscaped gardens and wildlife, the route gives an insight into the unique mix that forms this part of London.

Our classic one-way trips operate in either direction, and take around 45 minutes.

Live commentary guided tour (English language)

CAMDEN MARKET & TOWN

1,000+ UNIQUE SHOPS, STALLS, BARS & CAFES. UNFOLLOW CONVENTION AT CAMDEN MARKET.

CAMDEN MARKET IS HOME TO A VAST ARRAY OF SHOPS, TRADERS & INTERNATIONAL CUISINES, CREATIVITY & VIBRANCY TO EXPLORE & ENJOY ACROSS SEVERAL SITES INCLUDING THE STABLES, LOCK MARKET & WEST YARD SET WITHIN COBBLED & FLAGSTONED LANES OF FORMER WAREHOUSES & CONVERTED STABLES THAT IN DAYS-GONE-BY HOUSED BOTH GOODS & THE HORSES THAT PULLED THE LOADED CARGO BOATS ALONG USING ROPES, FROM THE CANAL TOWING PATH ALONGSIDE THE CANAL

YOU MAY BE LUCKY ENOUGH TO CATCH SIGHT OF THE FAMOUS TRADITIONAL TOWN CRIER DRESSED IN HIS RED UNIFORM, WHO REGULARLY SOUNDS HIS BELL AND CAN BE HEARD CALLING OUT AROUND THE MARKET LANES

SEE THE ECLETIC SHOPS OF CAMDEN HIGH STREET & CHALK FARM ROAD WITH THEIR LARGER THAN LIFE GIANT 3D SIGNS QUIRKY STREET PERFORMERS & ALTERNATIVE CULTURES

VISIT CAMDEN MARKET BUCK STREET ECO FOCUSED & SET WITHIN UPCYCLED SHIPPING CONTAINERS

DISCOVER CAMDEN MARKET HAWLEY WHARF RETAIL & LEISURE ALONGSIDE THE CANAL

SEE THE JASON BRUGES STUDIO HELICOIDAL MIRROR LIGHT INSTALLATION SET BETWEEN THE TWO WATERSIDE HALLS BUILDINGS

OUR TRIPS DEPART & RETURN TO OUR WHARF LOCATED IN THE CENTRE OF CAMDEN MARKET WEST YARD STREET FOOD TRADERS

LITTLE VENICE

THIS WEST LONDON WATERSIDE AREA WAS SAID TO BE NAMED BY THE RENOWNED POET ROBERT BROWNING WHERAS OTHERS CREDIT IT TO LORD BRYON

OUR BOATS DEPART FROM BROWNING’S POOL THE LARGE TRANQUIL WATER EXPANSE SURROUNDED BY ELEGANT 19TH CENTURY MANSION HOUSES

ON BROWNING’S ISLAND LOOKOUT FOR THE SWANS, MALLARD DUCKS, GEESE, COOTS & MOORHENS AMONGST THE FEATHERED RESIDENT BIRDS, AS WELL AS THE OCCASIONAL VISITING CORMORANT OR HERON

ASK OUR GUIDE TO TELL YOU ABOUT THE FASCINATING STORIES OF RANDOLPH AVENUE, OR HOW THEY MANAGED TO GET BOATS THROUGH THE MAIDA HILL TUNNEL BEFORE BOATS HAD ENGINES & WERE TOWED BY HORSES

FROM ‘TOERAGS’ TO ‘LEGGING IT’ THE CANAL INTRODUCED UNIQUE TERMINOLOGY THAT HAS BECOME SET INTO THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. FIND OUT THE BACKSTORIES

TRAVEL PAST THE HOMES OF WELL-KNOWN MUSICIANS, ACTORS & CELEBRITIES ALONG CANALS LINED BY LIVE-ABOARD HOUSEBOATS

LOCAL WATERSIDE RESTAURANTS AT LITTLE VENICE INCLUDE THE SUMMERHOUSE ; THE WATERWAY & CAFE LAVILLE

WALK AROUND TO PADDINGTON BASIN FOR A MODERN CONTRAST: SHELDON SQUARE & PADDINGTON CENTRAL HAVE WATERSIDE CAFES, BARS & RESTAURANTS, INCLUDING SEVERAL ONBOARD MOORED BOATS: THE GRAND DUCHESS; THE CHEESE BARGE ; DARCIE & MAY GREEN . AS WELL AS A COLLECTION OF LARGE PUBLIC ARTWORKS

EXPLORE MERCHANT SQUARE WITH ITS FLOATING POCKET PARK , WATER MAZE FOUNTAINS & STRIKING ARCHITECTURAL GEMS SUCH AS THE NEW BRUNEL BUILDING & HEATHERWICK’S ROLLING BRIDGE

SEE THE MAARTEN BAAS REAL TIME CLOCK AT PADDINGTON STATION

Book with confidence Flexible bookings with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your booked departure

Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, as seat availability often sells out in advance, especially at weekends.

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and boarding. Check-in closes 5 minutes before each scheduled departure. The boat will depart promptly at the scheduled departure time.

Camden Market may be busy, particularly at weekends so please allow extra time to reach us.

No refunds will be given for missed departures

Trips are one-way, however, you can also book a separate trip if you wish to return back.

We do not accept oyster cards or the London Pass.

All tickets are sold subject to our Terms & Conditions

Regent’s Canal waterbus services are dog-friendly* subject to our Terms & Conditions

ONE WAY FARES

Booking fees will be added at checkout

Each passenger requires their own booked ticket - for example, both a Disabled person and 1x accompanying carer can each benefit from a lower concession rate, but each need a ticket. Infants require a free-of-charge booked ticket.

Bus style layout seating

No toilets on these services

LONDON WATERBUS COMPANY LIMITED Registered in England 01061531 Registered office: LABS Dockray, 1-7 Dockray Place, London NW1 8QH

We no longer offer trips to or from London Zoo. ZSL closed the waterside entrance in 2019

BOOKINGS CONCIERGE: [email protected] bio.site/waterbus UK GDPR Privacy Policy

Rickmansworth waterways trust

Canal cruises, take up to 12 people on a very special trip.

Come and take a trip on the Pride or Spirit of Batchworth!

Our purpose built trip boats have the capacity for 12 people and Pride of Batchworth runs regular trips from the canal centre at Batchworth to Stockers Lock and back. Or you may wish to privately charter the Spirit of Batchworth complete with 2 fully trained crew for special occasions. 

Combine a perfect day out with a trip on the famous Grand Union Canal. Our experienced volunteer crew will take care of your every need leaving you, your family or friends to just relax and enjoy a fantastic day.

Short Boat trips on the Pride of Batchworth

The Pride of Batchworth offers trips from Batchworth Lock to Stockers Lock and return.

A round trip takes around 30 - 40 minutes. 

• Trips run from 1015 every day but please note you must book a trip prior to coming down as we cannot guarantee a trip will be availabe if you just turn up.

Please phone 01923 778382 beforehand to book a trip and to check the boat is available. 

Prices for Boat trips

£5.00 for adults and £2.00 for children and £12 for a family of 4 (2 adults + 2 children) 

Private Charters on the Spirit of Batchworth

We also offer a private charter service on the Spirit of Batchworth for up to a maximum of 12 people. Boat Charters can be booked throughout the year on any day of the week subject to arrangement and sufficient notice.

For all charter bookings and further information please contact  [email protected] . If you just want information on whether the Short Boats Trips are running on a particular day please call the Lock Centre on 01923 778382 as the email is just for Private Charter enquiries.

Charter guests are welcome to bring their own food and drink on board.

To find out more about Charters and see suggestions for 1 - 5 hour return trips download our Charter brochure . Another option is to book a return trip to the Coy Carp at Coppermill Lock where you can enjoy a meal, the boat will wait for you and return you to Batchworth. When booking please allow 2.5 hours for the return boat trip and add on the amount of time you wish the boat to wait for you while you dine.

Please give  two weeks notice to book a charter as we have to ensure we have the volunteers available to crew and this is not always easy to do at short notice.

We can accept cheque, debit or credit card (not American Express) or cash payments in the Lock Centre. 

On Board Spirit of Batchworth

• Comfortable seating with the ability to have the boat fully covered in wet weather or with flexibility to open the sides and roof of the boat when the weather is fine 
• Toilet with hand washing facilities
• Media Player
• Buoyancy aids (available on request)
• First Aid Kit
• Full safety equipment

Price for Private Boat Charter

1 hour - £60

2 hours - £95

3 hours - £140

4 hours - £185

5 hours - £230

6 hours - £275

(maximum 12 persons)

For all charter bookings and further information please contact  [email protected]

Passenger Feedback

"  I just wanted to say a huge thank you for our boat trip for my Mums birthday. She had a wonderful time and we all really enjoyed the experience. We chartered the Pride Of Batchworth for 2 hours. The boat is comfortable with excellent seating arrangements for our passengers and the crew were so friendly and cheerful. There were 11 of us on board - our youngest was 4 and our oldest was 72 so there were a lot of us but we were all able to move around comfortably and the boat is very safe for the little ones. We were able to help out at the locks - which was fun for the adults as well as the children!  We could also connect our iPhone to the speakers for music. It was all perfect and we can’t wait to go again.   Thank you for making our trip so easy and enjoyable."

--------------------

"What a fantastic day we had on Saturday, as you predicted the sun shone for us, everyone was in jolly mood and everything went to plan. Unfortunately just one of the lads was unable to come after all but all those who did had a great time. Thank you and all involved for the hard work that goes into this sort of thing - I hope we will be able to do it again sometime."

"I just wanted to say a big thank you for yesterday. The canal trip was perfect and they were great, friendly and informative .... all my party asked me to pass on our thanks and to give positive feedback. I believe people don't comment enough when they're happy with things but all too quick to complain. And you were right about the weather."

"I   would like to thank Graham & yourself for super trip out. I had fabulous time & so did girls. You both helped make our day enjoyable & informative. I loved doing locks & learning about the rope marks with horses and the coal tax plaque & house. I will write up a review & put your details on face book as social media is great advertising. I know at least two of my ladies are interested in booking barge trips with you. Thanks again for super day."

"I am writing to say how pleased my husband and I were with the cruise on the Pride of Batchworth last Sunday. Three generations of our family all enjoyed themselves very much, and one grandchild to day requested to repeat it another time. Thank you to you, David, Graham and Chris and others of your team whom we met, for a very well organised and efficient event, particularly teaching the four children how locks operate and encouraging them to help. I thought the boat was very well equipped and just right for the occasion.  As we also experienced fine warm sunshine for much of the trip, it really was a most successful 50th birthday celebration for our daughter. Thank you all very much."

"It was the unanimous view of everyone in my party that it was an excellent day out last Thursday.  Thank you to you personally for all your help both in our arrangements and on the day in showing us over "Roger".  Please pass on our thanks to all your fellow Trust volunteers and especially our crew for making it such a successful occasion.  The Queen's Award is fully deserved!"

"Just to say how greatly we enjoyed our trip on the Pride of Batchworth yesterday. Chris and Fabian worked very hard on what must have been the hottest day of the year - and we sat back and enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you again."

"I just wanted to send a note to say thank you for a lovely afternoon boat trip on Monday. My mother had a wonderful time and the whole family enjoyed it.  Thanks to the volunteers who were great too, very entertaining and knowledgeable." 

"A big thank you to the crew and you for a wonderful time on the canal. The weather was a bit on the wet side, but everything else was perfect! Please pass on my thanks as we dashed a bit for cover, and didn't say it properly to the people involved. We will definitely be back another time."

"We had a wonderful afternoon out today.  Of course the weather helped but the boat was perfect for the twelve of us and Steve and Chris could not have been a better crew.  We brought a picnic and I shall be recommending you to all my friends."

"On behalf of myself & all who so enjoyed yesterday afternoon’s trip. I should like to thank the crew & all those who made the trip so memorable. I am sure we will coming back for more."

"Once again the family had a very enjoyable time on 'The Pride of Batchworth' yesterday. Many thanks to you for making the arrangements - and to the crew for working so hard on a hot afternoon!"

"I just wanted to say a big thanks for a lovely day, nice friendly people and crew such a credit, an amazing place you have there, we will definitely come back again. My mum loved it. Thank you all for making her birthday special."

The festival takes place on the third weekend of May each year, and celebrates our canals, our community, and the environment.

Learning at the lock

Our education programme for primary school children

Around Batchworth

The Canal Centre is the hub of our education work and our information centre.

A truly historic boat, and our main heritage and educational asset.

Document Library

Unique floating venue hire in Edinburgh

• Private Party Hire
• Afternoon Chai
• Gin Cruises
• Ticketed Events
• Lochrin Belle Gallery
• Union Canal Gallery

We are part of the Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust

Afternoon Chai with The Prahna

Re-Union Canal Boats is part of the Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust . We are a social enterprise and provide private hire and trips on our boats, the Lochrin Belle , Waterwitch and Kingfisher . All our profits go to supporting local community activities and supporting the aims of the organisation – making our local area a better place to live, work, do business and visit.

We are now taking online bookings for trips!

For answers to general questions about Re-Union and the Lochrin Belle please click on the FAQ button below

Re-Union supports and encourages communities to engage positively with the canal, to promote its heritage, environment and amenity, with a view to encouraging more local people to use the canal to their benefit. We have been operating since 2004 working with canal-side communities near the Union Canal, originally from a base in Edinburgh. In 2012 we established a second base in Falkirk, extending our work to communities living beside the Forth and Clyde Canal, now a separate organisation – Go Forth and Clyde.

We have delivered a range of projects around volunteering, employability and lock-keeping as well as a number of community projects such as a community orchard, events including the Edinburgh Canal Festival, together with environmental improvement and health & well-being programmes. Projects and initiatives generally are instigated in partnership with our volunteers and stakeholders, and all projects aim to invest in our volunteers and trainees as well as developing links with canal-side communities.

Re-Union Canal Boats is a trading name of the Fountainbridge Canalside Community Trust a charity registered in scotland: SC035342 and a registered company, number: 265866

Registered address: c/o Scottish Canals Office 23 Lower Gilmore Place Edinburgh EH3 9NY

Privacy Policy

07716 745978 | [email protected]

Orange crush: Boats packed with revelers tour Amsterdam canals to celebrate the king’s birthday

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Decked in the national orange color, dancing to music, and eating orange-glazed pastries, many in the Netherlands Saturday are marking King’s Day , celebrating the birthday of their monarch who is enjoying a very slight rise in popularity as per a national poll.

As King Willem-Alexander celebrated his 57th birthday with his family in the northeastern city of Emmen, people across the country engaged in the traditional “free markets” held on that day, selling second-hand toys, books and other items. Others toured through the historic canals of the capital, Amsterdam as orange smoke from flares held aloft one boat drifted over vessels of all shapes and sizes jostling for space on a busy canal.

“Celebrating your birthday with your own family is the most beautiful thing you can experience. I’m very happy everybody is back,” Willem-Alexander told Dutch broadcaster NOS during a walkabout in Emmen, 190 kilometers (120 miles) northeast of the Dutch capital.

An annual poll published by the NOS for King’s Day showed Willem-Alexander’s popularity edging up very slightly since last year to 6.6 out of 10. His Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, scored 7.1 out of 10 in the poll of 1,015 people, conducted earlier this month.

The royals’ popularity took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic after Willem-Alexander and his family went on vacation in Greece during a partial lockdown. The royals cut short their break amid national uproar and Willem-Alexander took the unusual step of issuing a video message to express his regret and contrition for the trip.

The king’s three daughters, Amalia, Alexia and Ariane have all spent time out of the country recently — Ariane has been studying in Italy while Alexia has taken a gap year to travel. The eldest and heir to the Dutch throne, Amalia, also returned ahead of the king’s birthday after being forced to leave her student accommodation in Amsterdam and move to Madrid following threats from the criminal underworld.

Amalia, 20, who is studying politics, psychology, law and economics at Amsterdam University, told NOS she was “extremely grateful to everybody who made it possible” for her to live in Spain, where she said she was able to enjoy more freedom than in the Netherlands.

But, she added: “I’m glad to be back.”

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Orange crush: Boats packed with revelers tour Amsterdam canals to celebrate the king’s birthday

Thousands of people took to the canals of Amsterdam on Saturday to celebrate the Dutch king’s 57th birthday. Dressed in orange - the national color - they packed small boats and sailed down the historic waterways of the capital. (AP video by Ahmad Seir)

People dance on a boat during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

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An orange-clad man applauds for a girl playing violin as his orange-clad dog, bottom right corner, runs off during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Two girls sell orange pastries during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

Mud, a rain soaked blanket and wet items are being sold during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An orange-clad man and his orange-clad dog listen to a girl playing violin during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

An egg explodes on impact as a reveller takes part in a game during King’s Day celebrations in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Saturday, April 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Peter Dejong)

AMSTERDAM (AP) — Decked in the national orange color, dancing to music, and eating orange-glazed pastries, many in the Netherlands Saturday are marking King’s Day , celebrating the birthday of their monarch who is enjoying a very slight rise in popularity as per a national poll.

As King Willem-Alexander celebrated his 57th birthday with his family in the northeastern city of Emmen, people across the country engaged in the traditional “free markets” held on that day, selling second-hand toys, books and other items. Others toured through the historic canals of the capital, Amsterdam as orange smoke from flares held aloft one boat drifted over vessels of all shapes and sizes jostling for space on a busy canal.

“Celebrating your birthday with your own family is the most beautiful thing you can experience. I’m very happy everybody is back,” Willem-Alexander told Dutch broadcaster NOS during a walkabout in Emmen, 190 kilometers (120 miles) northeast of the Dutch capital.

An annual poll published by the NOS for King’s Day showed Willem-Alexander’s popularity edging up very slightly since last year to 6.6 out of 10. His Argentine-born wife, Queen Maxima, scored 7.1 out of 10 in the poll of 1,015 people, conducted earlier this month.

The royals’ popularity took a hit during the COVID-19 pandemic after Willem-Alexander and his family went on vacation in Greece during a partial lockdown. The royals cut short their break amid national uproar and Willem-Alexander took the unusual step of issuing a video message to express his regret and contrition for the trip.

The king’s three daughters, Amalia, Alexia and Ariane have all spent time out of the country recently — Ariane has been studying in Italy while Alexia has taken a gap year to travel. The eldest and heir to the Dutch throne, Amalia, also returned ahead of the king’s birthday after being forced to leave her student accommodation in Amsterdam and move to Madrid following threats from the criminal underworld.

Amalia, 20, who is studying politics, psychology, law and economics at Amsterdam University, told NOS she was “extremely grateful to everybody who made it possible” for her to live in Spain, where she said she was able to enjoy more freedom than in the Netherlands.

But, she added: “I’m glad to be back.”

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Canal holidays

The Falkirk Wheel

• Maintaining and developing the canals
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Visit the Forth & Clyde Canal

Keep up to date with all the latest canal works across the network.

Attractions on the Forth & Clyde Canal

Embark on a short journey from the canalside and uncover a world of wonders. Explore magnificent landmarks, get active in the range of parks, and embrace the vibrant energy of nearby bustling cities and towns.

The world's only rotating boat lift. A marvel of engineering and our flagship destination, The Falkirk Wheel connects the Forth & Clyde Canal and the Union Canal in a half-turn that takes only 5 minutes.

The Helix (including The Kelpies)

An eco-park featuring The Kelpies, a pair of 30-meter-tall horse head sculptures located in Falkirk, inspired by the working horses of Scotland's past.

BHive at Bowling harbour

The Bhive Activity Hub is a vibrant and dynamic space that offers a wide range of recreational activities and facilities for individuals and groups.

Take a tour on the Falkirk Wheel, paddle past the Kelpies or explore the canal on our towpaths. On the Forth & Clyde canal there is something for everyone. 

Falkirk Wheel boat tour

The glasgow to edinburgh canoe trail, kids activity zone.

History of the Forth and Clyde Canal

Follow the history of the canal that was designed to provide an important commercial route from the Forth estuary in the East to the Clyde in the West.

History & heritage

Nature and wildlife

Scotland's canals are not only a testament to human engineering but also serve as thriving habitats for diverse flora and fauna. With an abundance of natural beauty, these waterways offer a unique opportunity to witness wildlife in their element.

See all the options for holidaying on the canals.

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