Narrowboat Holidays Near London

Our narrowboat hire base is less than 100 miles from London, and is easy to get to by train from King’s Cross in about 90 minutes. For a mates’ holiday in south east England, choose from our four most popular, stunning canal routes, and a range of comfortable canal boats to hire.

little venice in paddington london

Narrowboat holidays in Cambridgeshire are ideal for beginners, because your trip begins with our in-house training, included in the price. Our boats can accommodate up to six people and have multiple berths and fully equipped galleys. Your route can include picturesque scenery, wide open Fenland skies, canal-side pubs, and charming, ancient market towns. Far less crowded than the Norfolk Broads, our local waterways have very few locks, which makes them faster and easier to navigate than most UK canals, although fast travel is not what narrowboaters are aiming for.

You may be surprised how easy it is to steer a narrowboat, so that handling the boat quickly becomes part of the pleasure. Imagine relaxed mornings on deck with a coffee, or stargazing and chatting together with a glass of wine in the evenings.

Tips for Friendship Groups

Each day, it’s a good idea to agree together on where you might want to stop, based on how many hours you want to travel that day. It’s best to enjoy a slow cruise rather than aim to get too far too soon. Plan ahead using the guidebook provided on board, CanalPlanAC, or our own interactive waterways map. It really is more about the journey than the destination. Make sure to plan your return journey back to the hire base too.

fenland waterways interactive map – fox

Everybody can take turns steering the boat and operating the locks, as this is all part of the fun, so make sure to pay attention during the boat handling training. Before you begin, you may like to plan a few meals and snacks that are easy to make on board in a small space.

narrow boat steering on holiday – fox

As you travel, make use of public toilets and toilets in pubs wherever you can, because the toilet tank on board may fill quickly with a larger group on the boat.

A typical day together as a group may include sharing the steering duties, operating locks, and mooring up. Stopping places may be a scenic rural picnic, a village fish and chip shop, or a day exploring a historic town like Ely or Peterborough. There should be something for everyone, if your group has various interests.

What to Bring

Bring soft bags rather than hard suitcases, as they will be easier to store on board, and don’t bring too many things. Space is limited. You can’t store anything on the roof of a boat because low bridges and branches may knock it off into the water.

Pack layers of clothing to prepare for varying temperatures, and be ready for rain or shine. You may like to bring some gloves for rainy days, because if you’re the one out on deck steering, that hand on the tiller can get cold. Hopefully a shipmate will bring you a warm cuppa.

Before you set off, get some basic grocery shopping on board. You won’t always be moored near a shop, and you may decide to moor somewhere scenic and remote for an unscheduled tea break. So make sure you have milk and biscuits on board, plus coffee, tea and bread. Keep some snacks on board too, and something easy to cook on the hob.

Fox Narrowboats can arrange a supermarket delivery to your boat at the marina in March before you set off. If you’re celebrating an occasion and fancy a treat, order an afternoon tea or a graze box from Glam Grazing. Although there is only a small freezer compartment on board, our boats come with fully equipped galleys, including crockery, cutlery, oven, hob, microwave and fridge.

Locks

There are no famous lock flights on the Fenland waterways. The Fens are reclaimed, drained marshland, which makes it a mostly flat landscape. For example, there are only two locks between March Marina and Peterborough.

Get some crew on the lock landing as you approach a lock gate, and ask them to open it before the steerer guides the boat into the lock. Don’t nudge the gate open with the bow of the boat. Get the skipper to watch the stern and keep it clear of the cill when travelling downhill. If a boat gets caught on the cill, it can sink.

When passing through a lock, or mooring up, dogs should be kept inside the boat or on a lead. Let us know at the time of booking if you want to bring a dog.

Fox Boats

Our flexible cabin layouts with six berths are ideal for group getaways, university reunions and celebrating milestones and special occasions. With a spacious saloon and a practical layout for eating and socialising, our larger boats, Platinum Fox and Cape Fox allow everyone to travel together in comfort.

group on board boat making tea – fox dayboat

Splitting a large group onto two boats can increase the price of your holiday hire, so instead we recommend hiring a six berth boat for a group of friends together. A short break of three nights starts from around £180 per person.

A canal holiday offers quirky accommodation combined with a fun activity, making good memories together. It’s a chance to slow down and enjoy nature while cruising, yet also offers the option for a night out on the town, depending on where you decide to moor.

And Finally: Enjoy Life in the Slow Lane

Going slow is what boating is all about, so if you can walk faster than your boat, you’re doing it right. Unplug from 21st-century living and look out for daffodils and primroses along the riverbanks. At this time of year you may see blossom on the trees, windmills in the fields, and ducklings and cygnets bobbing along on the water.

If you’re on board at Eastertime, stock up on chocolate eggs and hot cross buns. Visit local markets and Easter events by narrowboat, and enjoy St George’s Fayre in March Town Centre, or check out the world eel throwing competition at Ely Eel Festival in May. Getting together with a group of your closest friends to slow down and enjoy nature is one of the best ways to make lasting memories.

Ready to start cruising? Get in touch with Fox Narrowboats today and start planning your trip! See 2026 special offers

Are you new here? For our best tips about canal boating holidays enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in-box. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

Peggy Melmoth is a writer who shares her memoir-style writing and poetry at Life, Locks and Literature.

Photo credits: Little Venice London Deposit Photos, Fox Narrowboats

The post The Best Narrowboat Holiday for a Group of Friends appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

This year, we decided to do something different.

Instead of telling you why we think canal boating is romantic, we’re letting our guests do the talking. Over the years, we’ve received messages, reviews and emails that read less like feedback and more like love letters. Not just to Fox Narrowboats, but to the boats themselves, the waterways, and the feeling of a slower pace of life.

Fox day boat hire – explorer

So this Valentine’s Day, here are a few love letters from the water.

Love Letters to the Boat

Some guests write about the boat as if it were a trusted friend. A place where everything finally feels simple.

fox canal boat day – explorer

For many couples, stepping aboard a Fox narrowboat is the moment they truly switch off. The kettle goes on, the engine hums into life with a gentle vibration, and suddenly the outside world feels very far away.

“Just had the best week on the Rural Fox. Would recommend this to everyone. Great Staff, Great boat, Great countryside. We will be back one day.” – Kellee and Kris

Moments like this are exactly what many guests remember long after they step back onto dry land.

Whether it’s a short break or a leisurely cruise, our boats are designed to feel welcoming, calm and easy to enjoy together.

“We thoroughly enjoyed our day trip for my daughter’s 30th birthday. Excellent communication from Fox Narrowboats. Plenty of crockery and cutlery on board, milk, tea, coffee and biscuits provided and even a birthday card. We did the 7.5 hour round trip to Outwell so that we could pass through the lock.” – Christina

It’s often the thoughtful details that turn a good trip into a memorable one.

Some guests are surprised by just how much they enjoy the experience.

“Although I’ll never do this again, it was brilliant. This boat was a year old and kitted out beautifully. Two bedrooms, each with a private bathroom. Fully loaded kitchen… the meals we were able to cook…mwah!

The people at Fox Narrowboats were lovely smiling people. Their happiness was contagious. They even let you pre-order to have a Tesco delivery loaded on board.

It’s a very lovely setup for beginners and experienced narrowboaters. I am ex-navy, familiar intimately with water, but this is something completely different.” – Joh L.R

For many first-time narrowboaters, it’s an experience that exceeds expectations in ways they didn’t anticipate.

Love Letters to Each Other

Then there are the messages that are really about togetherness.

Canal boating has a lovely way of encouraging teamwork. One steers, one works the lock. One cooks, one pours the wine. There’s time to talk, time to laugh, and time to simply sit side by side watching the world drift past.

fox narrowboat – red wine & cheese anyone?

“We had a wonderful day out in Adventurer. This was a 70th birthday present for my dad and the whole family, including our skipper, would highly recommend this fun activity. The boat was clean and had everything we needed. As beginners we took a simpler route and were well instructed both before our booking and on the day. We are hoping to make this an annual family day.” – Kerstin

Shared experiences like these often become traditions that families return to year after year.

“Absolutely amazing adult (and doggos) family day out with Fox Narrowboat’s day hire. Brilliant organisation and communication. Helpful and knowledgeable staff. Cannot recommend enough!” – Joanne

Time spent together on the water often creates memories that last far beyond the day itself.

Without packed itineraries or constant distractions, couples often tell us they rediscover the pleasure of time to notice things together. Long breakfasts. Lazy walks. Conversations that don’t have to fit around anything else.

“We had a lovely family trip on one of the guided tours. The chap who took us was very welcoming, friendly and very informative. Thank you.” – Lynda

Sometimes it’s the simplest days that stay with us the longest.

Love Letters to the Waterways

And of course, some love letters are written to the landscape itself.

Morning narrowboat mooring Chris Howes

The Fen waterways offer wide skies, peaceful moorings and the kind of quiet that’s hard to find elsewhere. Days unfold gently, punctuated by birdsong, the creak of ropes, and the promise of a cosy pub lunch just around the bend.

“Just come off a week’s trip re-exploring the Nene! Travelled up from March and got as far to just beyond Wadenhoe. Already booked two weeks for next year…. just see where that will take us.

Regarding Fox Narrowboats, I cannot recommend them highly enough. The service and boats they offer are second to none! If you want to get out on the water, try them!” – Southbourne Bowling Club

For many guests, the waterways themselves become part of the story they want to return to.

Cruising near Ely and Cambridge offers the perfect balance of rural calm and historic charm. Hand in hand walks along the towpath, cobbled streets, riverside cafés, and sunsets that seem to last just a little longer when you’re on the water.

Why Love Letters Matter

Reading through these messages, a pattern emerges. They’re rarely about grand gestures or extravagant plans. They’re about time. Space. And the freedom to slow down, together.

Houghton Mill – CC SA 3.0 Cmglee

A narrowboat holiday doesn’t try to impress. It simply creates the conditions for connection. And perhaps that’s why so many of our guests find themselves writing to us afterwards, trying to capture a feeling they didn’t quite expect.

Write Your Own Love Letter

If you’re looking for a Valentine’s idea that’s thoughtful, memorable and a little different, a canal boat holiday might be the perfect place to start. Whether it’s a romantic short break for two, or a relaxed day hire with people you love, Fox Narrowboats offer the space to slow down and enjoy the moment.

Even when the weather isn’t perfect, time on the water has its own charm.

“Fab day out on the Cambridgeshire Fens on a narrow boat. Not even the rain could put a damper on the day!” – David

This Valentine’s Day, you don’t have to say it with roses. You can say it with time.

And maybe write your own love letter from the water.

Check out our short breaks or day hire deals near Ely and Cambridge.

Hey! New here? Click ‘Blog’ (top right) and select ‘Follow Blog’ in the sidebar to receive more articles about the Fenland waterways and local history. We never share email addresses. Just local knowledge, every two weeks.

Peggy Melmoth is a writer who shares her memoir-style writing and poetry at Life, Locks and Literature.

Photo credits: Fox Narrowboats, Chris Howes, Houghton Mill – CC SA 3.0 Cmglee

The post Love Letters from the Water: A Valentine’s Day Special appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

1. Planning a Narrowboat Holiday

If you’re thinking about your next trip, these posts are full of tips and ideas to help you plan with confidence, whether it’s your first holiday or your fiftieth.

collage spring 2025 – april narrowboat holiday is the perfect spring get away

• Don’t Book a Narrowboat Holiday – Before Trying this One-Minute Hack
  Smart narrowboaters subscribe to this blog before booking; find out why and get insider tips to make your holiday stress-free.
• First-Time Narrowboat Holiday? Here’s What the Internet Wants You to Know
  From managing locks to keeping dogs safe on board, discover the advice seasoned boaters wish they had before their first cruise.
• Buying a Slice of Heaven – My Experience of Buying a Narrowboat
  If you’re planning to go boat shopping but are a novice, it is always a good idea to enlist an “in-the-know” friend to accompany you.
• Why an April Narrowboat Holiday is the Perfect Spring Getaway
  Spot wildlife, enjoy cosy waterside pubs, and cruise through peaceful Fenland landscapes in the best season for a trip.

2. Family Life and Shared Adventures

Narrowboating is full of moments big and small that bring families closer together; from learning to steer to tending a rooftop garden, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy.

milla & daughter narrowboat alice elgie

• Boating Adventures with Four-Legged Friends
  With endless towpaths for walks, relaxing cruising time, and cosy evenings on deck, boating is perfect for pets as well as people.
• Narrowboat Roof Gardening (with or without children!)
  Gardening from the boat teaches patience and wonder, perfect for little hands and curious minds alike.
• Why Your Kids Will Love a Narrowboat Summer Holiday
  From spotting ducks to steering the boat, discover how a narrowboat holiday offers adventure, relaxation, and family bonding without leaving the UK.
• A Writer’s Experience of a Family Narrowboat Adventure
  In an increasingly busy world, an escape to life on the cut gives families the chance to slow down and reconnect.

3. Romance, Rest and Reconnection

Sometimes a canal boat holiday is just about slowing down, spending time together, or finding a little magic in everyday moments.

• Narrowboating Through Winter
  There is a quiet romance to basic meals cooked on the fire, giving you permission to hunker down and switch off from the world.
• The Lovers Guide To The Fen Waterways
  Scenic views, cosy pub lunches, and strolling hand in hand along cobbled streets make the Fenland waterways a perfect romantic getaway.

4. Living a Slower, Greener Life

Life on the cut encourages a gentler rhythm and a closer connection to the world around you; mindfulness, seasonal awareness, and simple eco-friendly choices can make every trip feel special.

greener living on a narrowboat

• Mindfulness on the Waterways
  Mindfulness is a way of being within the community, both human and animal, and it helps keep canals peaceful for everyone.
• A Simpler Greener Freer Lifestyle On Board A Narrowboat
  Use your move afloat or narrowboat holiday to slow down, reconnect with nature, and consider the impact of technology and your environmental footprint.
• Autumnal Foraging on the Towpath
  Enjoy seasonal treats while treading lightly, and discover the beauty and bounty of the hedgerows.

5. Places, Nature and Inspiration

From wildlife to seasonal scenery, waterways maps to historic destinations, there is always something to inspire you on the canals.

• Spring On The Cut
  Nature through a narrowboat window draws you in like nothing else, offering an immersive, ever-changing view of the world outside.
• Autumn On The Water – Diary of Living On A Narrowboat
  Reeds sway and leaves twirl across the water, a reminder of the beauty of seasonal change.
• Exploring Cambridgeshire’s Wildlife: Spotting Flora and Fauna with Fox Narrowboats
  Swans, kingfishers, and more, there is always something new to spot around every river bend.
• The Seven Wonders of the Fenland Waterways
  From medieval bridges to breath-taking scenery, take a canal journey through hidden Fenland wonders.
• A Canal-Themed Christmas, Dreaming of Your 2026 Waterways Escape
  While our boats rest for winter, imagine frosty towpaths, festive days out, and the timeless beauty of Ely Cathedral.
• Puss in Boats: Can Cats Live Afloat On A Narrowboat?
  From towpath adventures to roof-top sunbathing, discover how boat cats enjoy life on the cut.

We hope these highlights inspire your own adventures on the waterways this year. There is always something new to discover.

Love canal boating? Make 2026 your year on the waterways! For inspiring tips, seasonal ideas, and surprising insights for your next Fenland adventure, enter your email in the ‘Follow Blog’ box on the right-hand side, and we’ll send new articles straight to your inbox.

Peggy Melmoth is a writer who spent thirteen years living on canal boats with her family. She writes about narrowboat holidays, life on the waterways, and finding adventure in everyday moments at www.narrowboatwife.com

The post Fox Narrowboats: Highlights from Our Blog in 2025 appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

All our boats are winterised and tucked up to sleep until spring-time, while we retreat indoors with mince pies and hot drinks.

cape fox narrowboat

But while our narrowboats are resting and the towpaths sparkle with morning frost, this season can be the perfect moment to dream ahead, to map out next year’s adventures, imagine warm spring mornings on the waterways, and maybe even drop a festive hint (or three) about the holiday you’d love in 2026.

Because even though Fox Narrowboats doesn’t offer winter cruising, there’s still a touch of Christmas magic to be found along the East Anglian waterways… and a boat hire holiday to look forward to when our season begins again in April.

Festive Magic at Wicken Fen

One of the loveliest winter destinations in our region is the National Trust’s Wicken Fen, which sparkles with seasonal activities this time of year, from nature trails and cosy café treats to family-friendly festive events.

wicken fen mooring windmill – phil hearing

And while you can’t cruise there right now, it’s fun to picture yourself moored at the GOBA moorings on Wicken Lode, ready to stretch your legs on a crisp morning. From the mooring, it’s just a short stroll to the Wicken Fen Visitor Centre and Café, where you can warm up with light refreshments and soak up the winter wildlife. Venture a little further into the village and you’ll find The Maid’s Head, a traditional 13^th century thatched pub, ready to offer hearty food and a comfortable seat by the fire. It’s the kind of simple winter pleasure that boaters love: nature, community, and an excuse for a hot drink you definitely earned by walking at least 200 metres.

A Cathedral at Christmas

We’re lucky to be within cruising distance of Ely; well known for its antique centres, ancient narrow streets, timbered houses and medieval gateways. This cruise is a four day short break at 4.5 hours cruising per day, or a relaxed one-week holiday, cruising only 2.5 hours per day.

Read: Four Churches to Visit When it’s Not Even Christmas

inside ely cathedral –

Ely Cathedral always hosts a variety of Christmas services and events throughout November and December, including the annual Christmas Gift and Food Fair, carol services, and special concerts. But it’s stunning to visit at any time of year; highlights include tours of the medieval Octagon Tower, and a visit to the Stained Glass Museum.

Check out the highlights of Fox Route 1.

Imagining a Christmas on the Water

If Santa can circumnavigate the globe in one night (with no stoppages, no mooring restrictions, and apparently no weed-hatch issues), it’s fair to say the man knows a good transport system when he sees one.

Some say he even pops over the Fens now and then during a test flight. The stillness of the winter waterways is perfect for fine-tuning reindeer-navigation, after all. And if he happened to glance down at March Marina and spot our fleet taking their winter rest… well, we imagine he’d approve.

fox narrowboats marina

We might not cruise in December, but the thought of future adventures makes winter feel warmer. The slow, thoughtful pace of canal boating pairs wonderfully with the cosy, reflective mood of the season. Christmas, in a way, is the boater’s natural habitat: hot drinks, twinkly lights, and a good excuse to plan next year’s routes with a notebook and a biscuit tin.

The Perfect Christmas Gift for a Future Boater

If you’ve been particularly good this year, you could always drop a few gentle hints about how nice it would be to spend a week aboard Platinum Fox or Silver Fox in the spring sunshine…

fox narrowboat gift vouchers 2026 – call reception

Our 2026 season opens in April, and Christmas is a popular time for families to book their summer holiday or plan a slow, scenic break later in the year. A narrowboat holiday isn’t just another present, it’s a chance to unwind, reconnect, explore hidden waterways, and see the world at three miles per hour.

And if someone in your life prefers clear instructions over hints, feel free to forward them this blog post. Santa likes girls and boys that know what they want for Christmas!

Order Gift Voucher

Give Fox reception a call to get yours! 01354 652770

Until Spring…

While the boats slumber through the colder months, we’re here preparing them for another year of adventures, polishing, repairing, repainting, and ensuring every vessel is ready for you when cruising begins again.

So this Christmas, whether you’re curled up at home or out exploring winter nature reserves, take a moment to imagine your future self, gliding through sunlit reeds, mooring near a riverside pub, or making a detour down Wicken Lode for a slice of cake.

Spring will be here before you know it.

Book a 2026 Fox Narrowboat

From all of us at Fox Narrowboats:

Wishing you a peaceful, magical Christmas, and happy planning for your 2026 waterways holiday.

1. PS. For more tips and inspiration for your next boating holiday, pop your email in the box on the right-hand side of this page (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send our latest articles straight to your inbox. (We never share your email address, and we won’t overwhelm your inbox. We’re not naughty – we’re nice!)

Photo credits: Wicken Fen Phil Hearing on Unsplash , Ely Cathedral deposit photos,

The post A Canal-Themed Christmas: Dreaming of Your 2026 Waterways Escape appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

spring 2025 narrowboat holiday

Why Go Boating in April?

April is when nature bursts back into life. Picture the blossom on the trees, and the plants and towpath-grass lining the waterways, making your journey as scenic as it is peaceful. It’s also the perfect time for spotting wildlife. Who doesn’t love to see a mother duck bobbing past their boat with a row of her ducklings in tow? The swans will be nesting, and if you’re lucky you could also glimpse a flash of a kingfisher, or a heron.

fox narrowboats heron

For families, an Easter holiday on the water is a unique and fun experience. You may like to bring some chocolate eggs for a boat-based Easter hunt. When my kids were young we lived on a narrowboat, and hid Easter eggs in a field near the towpath for our children to discover. Many of our local towns host Easter events and markets, perfect for a family outing. If you enjoy exploring history, you can moor up and visit iconic sites like Ely Cathedral, Ramsey Abbey, or even our charming home town of March, before the summer crowds arrive. Other local events in spring include St Georges Fayre in March, and Ely Eel Festival, home to the world eel throwing competition!

st georges fayre march april 2025 poster credit fenland gov

Spring’s mild temperatures and longer daylight hours make it a great time for walking and cycling along the towpaths. If you want to bring your dog on a boat trip, just let us know at the time of booking. And of course, no boating holiday is complete without stopping at a cosy waterside pub or café. Enjoy a drink or a classic cream tea as you take in the view. You might also want to browse local markets in Ely or St Ives, picking up fresh veg to cook up a delicious meal in the galley on-board.

Why Book Your Holiday Early?

Booking your holiday in advance means you get the best pick of boats and travel dates, so you won’t miss out on your ideal trip. Spring cruises are sometimes better value than peak summer breaks, making them a budget-friendly option.

spring 2025 holiday booking fox narrowboat st ives river

The weather in April and May is pretty mild, with crisp mornings and sunny afternoons—ideal for comfortable cruising. You’ll also find the waterways much quieter than in summer, meaning less waiting at locks and more choice when it comes to available moorings. If you’re new to narrowboating, this is the perfect time to give it a go. With fewer boats on the cut, you can take your time and enjoy a relaxed introduction to life on the water. (Our staff will show you what to do, if you’re new to this.)

Plan Your Spring Boating Break

A narrowboat holiday in April is the perfect way to slow down, enjoy the beauty of nature, and make lasting memories. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a get-together with a group of your closest friends, Fox Narrowboats has a boat to suit your needs. Book early to make sure you don’t miss out—your springtime adventure in Cambridgeshire awaits!

collage spring 2025 lily flower credit fox

Ready to start cruising? Get in touch with Fox Narrowboats today and start planning your trip!

Are you new here? For our best tips about canal boating holidays enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in-box. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

Image Credits: St Georges Fayre Fenland.Gov Easter Eggs Jasmine Waheed on Unsplash. Fox Narrowboats Facebook photos

The post Why an April Narrowboat Holiday is the Perfect Spring Getaway appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

fox narrowboat – adventurer

With over 70 years’ experience of loving our work on the Fenland waterways, we can confidently say that we know our way around the Middle Level, River Nene and River Ouse.  We know the history, the sights, the hidden gems and where to go for the most romantic photos. We look forward to sharing our holiday boats and day-hire boats with couples and families every spring, and until then, we share some of our local, insider knowledge about this unique boating landscape on this blog.

The Canals of the Fens: a History

Any decent guide of our east Anglian waterways should start with a brief history. Once a wetland landscape, the Fens were drained to create a flat, dry region for agriculture. The first attempts to drain the Fens began in Roman times, but the drainage was finally successful in the 1820s, when powerful coal-fired steam engines were brought in to replace the failing wind pumps. A great place to learn more about the history of these waterways is Stretham Old Drainage Engine, built in 1831. It can be visited when boating on the Great River Ouse, and is a great place to wander hand in hand, absorbing the history.

Also, Prickwillow Museum contains a nearly identical Mirrlees diesel engine that has been preserved and restored to working order.  This museum tells the story of the changing face of the Fens and its network of drainage systems and pumping stations. The museum is housed in the old pumping station in Prickwillow, just four miles east of the romantic, ancient, city of Ely.

The Most Romantic Fenland Canal Cruises

Our day-hire boats and holiday narrowboats are designed for the most romantic, and comfortable couples’ experience. Whether you are planning a day trip, or a longer romantic break, we can offer stunning scenery and convenient options to eat out, or eat on board the boat.

Popular Cruises for Lovers

• March to Upwell and Outwell; a charming, rural day trip.
• March to Peterborough; a holiday that crosses the Meridian date line.
• March to Ely; visit the cathedral, antique shops and Oliver Cromwell’s house.

Attractions to Visit along the Fenland Canals

There are many villages, markets and towns to visit along the way, with convenient moorings where you can stop. On a short trip you could grab fish and chips for two, or a country pub lunch. On a longer narrowboat break together you may like to see impressive historical buildings, and the unusual museums found here in Cambridgeshire. The curiously flat landscape, (created by the draining of the Fens,) offers easy navigation, with photogenic, huge skyscapes.

The Perfect Photo Portrait

When you visit us, you may be surprised that the waterways are so much less crowded than the Norfolk broads, and the scenery is remarkably flat. Quirky photo opportunities may include wind farms, Ely Cathedral, or Cambridge’s Bridge of Sighs. Don’t hesitate to ask someone to take some spontaneous couples’ photos, of you two at the tiller, or sitting together in the bow. For a special occasion, such as a relationship milestone, or your engagement, try staging some classic romantic photos, such as embracing on a picturesque bridge, or strolling hand in hand along the towpath. Early mornings with the mist rising from the canal can be very photogenic, so take the opportunity to create the perfect Instagram moment. Tell your love story with serious passion, or alternatively opt for comedy and recreate that iconic Titanic movie moment, of Jack and Rose on the bow, (making sure you do not take any safety risks when doing so!)

Would your true love enjoy canal boating? Or maybe you’re both already seasoned narrowboaters? This Valentine’s Day, consider gifting a boating experience. A Fox Narrowboats gift voucher offers the opportunity to create treasured memories together this year.

Read: A Fox Narrowboats Gift Voucher: The Present That Promises Adventure

A Valentines Gift for You Both

February doesn’t always offer the best weather for narrowboating, but you can book a Fox Narrowboat from 31st March onwards this year. Consider surprising your partner with a boating break; a memorable gift that you can both enjoy.

Fox Narrowboats Day Boat Hire Gift Voucher

You may also like: 5 Reasons Why Canal Boats are the Most Romantic Holiday

Love canal boating? For more surprising tips and ideas for days out on the Fenland Waterways, enter your email address in the box in the right side-bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your in box.

The post The Lover’s Guide to the Fen Waterways appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

fens waterways | credit: see posts

Are you thinking of booking a romantic boat trip in February? Or perhaps you want to surprise your mum with an idyllic Mother’s Day outing? Are you curious about a day in the life of a liveaboard boater? Last year on our blog we covered all of these topics, and we also enjoyed watching ‘Narrow Escapes’, learning the cost of living aboard, and we published a mini-guide to our must-see local attractions. Here are some of the best parts of 2024 on the Cambridgeshire waterways.

The third Monday in January is “Blue Monday”; the most depressing day of the year. But this was only created in 2005 by a travel firm, so the “science” is of dubious credibility! However, the media now use the idea of the January blues to promote self-care and mental health awareness. So, if you are feeling a little bit gloomy this month, we hope that daydreaming about narrowboating will cheer you up!

Historic waterside pubs and quiet rural moorings make narrowboat day hire the perfect romantic getaway. If you hire a boat for one day you can enjoy a peaceful cruise getting close to nature under the wide Fenland skies. If you’re celebrating a relationship milestone, or even planning a marriage proposal, we can arrange for some fancy food platters to be available on board.

From last February, read: This Valentines Offer is a Romantic Idea for Couples

Planning a family day out boating on Cambridgeshire’s peaceful inland waterways can be a lovely way to say ‘thank you’ this Mothers’ Day (30th March 2025). If your family are new to canal boating, our experienced instructors will show you how to steer the boat, moor up and work the locks. You can stop at a waterside pub for refreshments, or visit a fish and chip shop for dinner.

From last March, read: Hire a Canal Boat for Mothers Day

In 2024 we began offering skippered boat trips along the Middle Level waterways. Setting off from our marina in March, allow our qualified skipper to take the tiller, and point out the many interesting things that can only be seen from the river. Each boat trip is 90 minutes aboard our newest day-hire narrowboat.

Read: New: Skippered Cambridgeshire River Trips on a Canal Boat

The TV documentary series, ‘Narrow Escapes’ was new to Channel 4 in April 2024. It features various roving canal traders, live-aboard characters, and boaters renovating their current boat. This series offers a lovely escape from the January blues. Who doesn’t love a bit of armchair canal-boating?!

Read: 8 Good Reasons to Watch Channel 4’s Narrow Escapes

From the tranquil morning mist lifting off the canal, to the vibrant sunset over the water, imagining a typical summer’s day aboard a narrowboat in the Fens, may also lift your spirits.

Read: A Day in the Life: Experience the Serenity of Fox Narrowboats’ Routes

If you’ve ever dreamed of living on a boat, then you could hire a narrowboat from us for one or two weeks, to see if you take to it, “like a duck to water”. You can find the answer to many of your questions about what the costs may be in last autumn’s article:

Read: The Costs Of Living On A Narrowboat

Making such a major lifestyle change can be scary, but… if you enjoy being scared, then snuggle up with some Fenland-inspired horror fiction from M R James, and consider visiting these eerie, reclaimed marshlands and isolated villages by boat. Laughing children, rattling chains, and a wandering nun are just some of the spectres you may encounter on a narrowboat holiday, in one of England’s most haunted areas!

Read: Halloween: Five Haunted Destinations for Your Narrowboat Holiday

If you have never been to the Fens, and want to visit charming English villages, as the skipper of your own canal boat, then we have the answer: Discover the hidden gems of Cambridgeshire’s waterways on a journey, where historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes await at every lock and bend.

Read: From Locks to Landmarks: A Guide to Cambridgeshire’s Must-See Attractions by Boat

Our canal boat hire base can be found on the Middle Level, between the River Ouse and the River Nene. Our friendly, family business has been here for generations, offering you a warm welcome, from the descendants of respected local boat builder, Charlie Fox.

If you enjoyed reading ‘A Year in the Life of Fox Narrowboats’, look for ‘Follow Blog’ in the sidebar on the right and enter your email address. We’ll send you occasional stories, tips and advice about narrowboating around the Fens. (We never share or sell email addresses – your details are safe with us.) If you want to beat the winter blues and book a canal holiday in 2025 check availability now.

Waterways Map

You may also like: Why January is the Best Time to Book Your Hire Boat Holiday

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All in the golden afternoon

Full leisurely we glide;

For both our oars, with little skill,

By little arms are plied,

While little hands make vain pretence

Our wanderings to guide.

This dreamy poem, at the beginning of the children’s novel, Alice in Wonderland, describes a real boat trip in Oxford, where three young girls once begged Lewis Carroll to tell them a story about “The dream-child moving through a land, Of wonders wild and new…” It describes perfectly the lazy feeling of drifting along a river, enjoying the serenity of nature, and the tranquillity of being on the water.

We don’t offer rowing boat hire at Fox Narrowboats, but better than that, we are now offering skippered boat trips along the tranquil waters of the Middle Level. We already offer day boat hire, and narrowboat holidays, but these new boat trips are for those visitors who don’t want to steer a boat. Departing from our marina in March, Cambridgeshire, just allow our qualified skipper to take the tiller, and point out the many interesting features that can only be seen from the river. Each boat trip is 90 minutes aboard the ‘March Explorer’. This is our newest day hire narrowboat with room for 10 passengers on board. There is a seating area undercover as well as toilet on board. There is also plenty of space to sit outside on a summers day and enjoy being close to nature.

From our hire boat marina you will leisurely glide along the old course of the River Nene, which is a quieter river, and part of the Fenland waterways network. The waterways that make up the Middle Level system are a mixture of natural rivers and man-made canals that were started in the early 17th century. An unexpected consequence of the draining of the Fens was the shrinking of the dried out land. Most of this area is now below sea-level, because the land has sunk, so the Middle Level rivers now have to be pumped up to sea-level to drain the land.

The town of March is a short train journey from Cambridge or London, and was once a small island community. It was developed as a Tudor Port, and later as a railway town in the 19th century. The River Nene flows through the town centre, so pretty cottages and buildings, open fields and parks can be seen from the river banks as you pass through. If you are already familiar with March, this is a chance to learn about our riverside history and see the town from a different perspective. Boat cruises begin and end at Fox Narrowboats marina. Look out for kingfishers, fish, heron and dragonflies, as “full leisurely we glide.”

We expect these trips to be popular, and availability is limited, so book your own “golden afternoon” now.

90 min boat trips – June 2024

Book Now: Skippered Boat Trips on March Explorer

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Why not make Mothering Sunday extra special this year by suggesting that her favourite family members get together for a memorable daytrip to March, in Cambridgeshire?

Mothers’ Day and Mothering Sunday are actually two separate things, although they are held on the same day in England. Mothering Sunday is traditionally the fourth Sunday in lent, when parishioners return to their ‘mother’ church. Mothers’ Day first started in the 1950’s, as a way to say thank you for all of the things that mothers do. Planning a family day out boating on Cambridgeshire’s peaceful inland waterways could be a lovely way to say ‘thank you’ this Mothers’ Day (10^th March 2024).

Hire a Narrowboat

If your family are new to canal boating, our experienced instructors will show you how to steer the boat, moor up and work the locks. Our day boats are equipped with cutlery, crockery, a hob, a fridge and a sink in the galley area, so you can make snacks and hot drinks on board, or bring a picnic. There is also a toilet, dinette, and a seating area. We can arrange to have groceries, or an afternoon tea waiting for you on board. Alternatively, you can stop at a waterside pub for refreshments, or visit a fish and chip shop for dinner.

Our annual boating season begins in April, so you can book a day trip in advance and surprise your mum with the news on Mothers’ Day. Boating appeals to all ages and is a great way to bring the family together.

Read: The Top 3 Mothers Day Ideas For The Narrowboat Mum

Day boats ‘March Adventurer’ and ‘March Explorer’ can carry up to ten people each.  Prices start from £260 and include fuel and insurance.

Find out more about our day boat hire.

Read All About It

Alternatively, if your mum, wife, or gran is a woman who enjoys narrowboating, or dreams of getting afloat, then you may also consider getting her a book revealing the pro’s and cons of parenting on board. When my children were young we lived on board a narrowboat, so I loved seeking out stories about mothers on canal boats; both biographical and fictional.

Read: Five Surprising Mothers Day Gifts for the Narrowboat Mum

Pushing the Boat Out

But perhaps you’re looking for more than a book, flowers or chocolates as a gift? Maybe you are looking for that elusive family holiday; the one that can please all of the people all of the time? Relaxing, yet adventurous, a change from everyday life, without the modern day hassle of traffic and airports? We’ve got the perfect family holiday for you. Enjoy the scenic countryside and quality time together, explore new places and learn to steer a boat and work a lock.

Read: Why Narrowboating is the Perfect Family Holiday

It’s more than a Mothers’ Day gift, but if you have been planning a multi-generational holiday this year, then boating has something for everyone. Fox Narrowboats in Cambridgeshire is a short distance from London, ideally located for everyone to get together. After all, what better day than Mothers’ Day to get together and appreciate one another’s company, and plan special treats for the year ahead?

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Save 10% on 2024 day hires

Quiet rural moorings and historic waterside pubs make narrowboat day hire the perfect romantic getaway. Fox Boats offer day boat hire near Ely and Cambridge for up to ten people, on the March Adventurer or the March Explorer. This gives couples the chance to escape on board their own private canal boat, or take family and friends along to celebrate an engagement, anniversary or another important relationship milestone. You can even bring your dog! There is plenty of seating both inside and outside the boat, and a see-through cover at the front protects passengers from any occasional rain showers.

If you hire a boat for the day you can enjoy a peaceful cruise along the east Anglian waterways, getting close to nature under the wide Fenland skies. Look out for kingfishers beside the river, and animals grazing in the fields while you’re getting away from the fast pace of modern life.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, or even planning a marriage proposal, we can arrange delicious food platters to be available on board, from Grazing by Gem. Choose from a traditional afternoon tea, a gentleman’s afternoon tea or a selection of graze boxes.

On board the narrowboat you will find the galley equipped with a hob, fridge and sink, so that you can enjoy snacks and hot drinks while you travel. There is a convenient Tesco and other shops in March, before you set off. There is a dinette and seating area inside the boat. There is also a toilet on board.

Romantic Destinations

Cruising east through the town of March you can pass the windfarm and visit the picturesque villages of Upwell and Outwell. Church Bridge moorings are a great place to stay for a lunch for two. There are also idyllic moorings at Outwell Basin, which is convenient for The Crown (pub) and The Crown Lodge Hotel. Treat your partner to an afternoon tea here, or an intimate meal in the award-winning restaurant.

Church Bridge moorings

Alternatively, travelling west towards Peterborough, past Floods Ferry Marina Park you can reach Ashline Lock and Whittlesey; an ancient market town with an interesting maze of streets. Whittlesey offers limited moorings at the back of a leisure centre and only a short walk from the historic market place. There are two beautiful churches to visit, and a range of restaurants and takeaways.

Our day boats are really popular at weekends so book early if that’s your preferred time to get away. But they are also available on weekdays. If this is your first time narrowboating we will show you the basics. We’re a friendly family-run business, so you can ask us any questions you like, before you set off.

So, create special memories together with the one you love and take lots of happy-couple photos on a day out on a narrowboat this year.

We are spreading the love for Valentine’s Day. From now until 16th February 2024 you can save 10% off our 2024 day hires.

For more surprising and unusual tips and ideas for days out in Cambridgeshire, enter your email address in the box in the right side bar (‘Follow blog’) and we’ll send you articles direct to your inbox. (We never share or sell email addresses; this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

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