Ferry Meadows sitting on narrowboat

Question – Where along the river Nene can visiting family combine a boat trip with a steam train outing ?

Question – Which future King of England was born in 1452 at Fotheringhay Castle on the River Nene ? – Clue – His body was identified 527 years after his death under a Leicester ca-park.

Question – Which Queen was executed in 1587 at Fotheringhay Castle on the River Nene ? One summer morning in 2023 I was looking for a mooring in the lovely riverside City of Ely. There were no available spaces, but there was a Fox hire boat moored. Generally hire boats don’t stop in any one place for too long, and often leave by midmorning.

I ‘hovered’ close to the boat and gently inquired if they might be moving on before too long, and if they would mind me mooring alongside until they left – when I could take over the spot they had vacated.

They were lovely, friendly, people, and readily agreed. I asked them if they were enjoying their narrowboat holiday. They replied that they were “loving it”, at which point they recognised my boat from the cover of the river guide ‘Great Ouse and its tributaries’. “How did you wangle getting your Fox boat on the cover ?” they asked. “By writing the guide !” I replied.

They made me a cup of coffee and I regaled them with a few of those anecdotes which didn’t quite make it into the guide.  Just before they set off, they explained “this has been our first narrowboat holiday and we’ve definitely got the bug”. They asked “We’ve got the whole Country to choose from, where would you recommend we go next year?”

I didn’t even need to think before I replied “Go West ! When you leave Fox’s marina turn right toward the River Nene not left towards the River Great Ouse (like you did this year). The River Nene is one of the loveliest navigable rivers in all England !”

During my life I have lived in two towns (Bedford and St Neots), and one City (Ely), all on the Great Ouse, but I must sing the praises of the River Nene. On a cautionary note I must also warn you that “Nene’ is pronounced “Neen” downstream of Thrapston, and “Nen” upstream of Thrapston. As the farthest you are likely to get on a week’s hire is Oundle (leaving yourself sufficient time to get back to the hire base), or at the very most Thrapston, we can settle on calling the river ‘Neen’.

Leaving Fox’s marina you will travel first through the Middle Level towards Peterborough. On the Middle Level you could spend your first night afloat on the new visitor moorings in Ramsey.

Alternatively many boaters choose to use the new rural moorings on Whittlesey Dyke at either Burnthouse Bridge or Angle Corner (https://middlelevel.gov.uk/navigation/maps/). The popular third option is go through Ashline Lock and moor at the back of the Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey. The rural moorings will require you to cook on board, whereas both Ramsey and Whittlesey moorings offer a range of ‘eat out’ opportunities, restaurant or takeaway.

You need to book yourself in advance through Stanground Lock with the lock keeper, Tina,  on 07824 600470 (this is the only non ‘do-it-yourself’ lock you will encounter on your trip).

Stanground is approximately 6 hours from Ramsey,  3 hours from the Burnthouse rural mooring, 21/2 from the Angle Corner rural mooring, and 1 1/4 from the Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey. Lock Warning !  In the mid 17th Century a campaign was launched to make the River Nene navigable between Peterborough and Northampton. It was anticipated that 33 locks would be required to bypass the water mills. By the 18th Century, when the work was undertaken, 38 locks were required ! But don’t worry there are only 11 locks between Peterborough and Oundle. With a willing and helpful crew these shouldn’t be too much bother. And remember – locking is a vital part of the ‘narrowboat experience’!

Stanground Lock

Shortly after you have passed through Stanground lock you will find yourself in the historic cathedral city of Peterborough. There are ample moorings on Peterborough Embankment but these can get a bit noisy in the evening. There is a floating Chinese restaurant called the Grain Barge moored on the embankment. My wife and I often dine there on their ‘eat as much as you can for a fixed price’ menu when returning to home waters after visiting the canals.

Peterborough Town Bridge 1909

Often we choose to travel out of Peterborough for another 1 1/4  hours and moor instead at the lovely Ferry Meadows Park. These peaceful floating moorings are on a lake and you quite often get a good sunset, followed by a spectacular sunrise the next mooring. There is (car) parking at Ferry Meadows Park, and before now we’ve rendezvoused there with family. They’ve joined us on board for a pleasant river trip upstream as far as Wansford Station, where they’ve disembarked and caught a steam train on the Nene Valley Railway back to their car. A perfect family outing !

wansford station

Go West young man !

As you travel upstream you will pass through Water Newton Lock. The adjoining former mill has been converted into desirable apartments (though I don’t know if I’d make it right through the night with the ever present sound of running water without regular nocturnal visits to the ‘smallest room’). The scene just above the lock is as idyllic a river view as you could ever find. Have your cameras at the ready !

Wansford Station b

water newton

Water Newton b

The old bridge at Wansford carries the old Great North road (a.k.a. the A1) past the Haycock Inn dates from 1600 and is a scheduled ancient monument. The Haycock Inn is named from the story of an unfortunate traveller who, wary of sleeping in any Inn because of plague, spent the night in a hayrick. The river rose in the night and the traveller woke to find himself floating down the Nene. Disorientated, he asked someone on the riverbank where he was, and upon hearing the reply “Wansford”, asked, “Wansford in England?”. The name stuck, and Wansford is officially described as “in England”. The local Inns are now on the whole believed to be plague free !

Above Wansford you come to floating moorings from which you can access Wansford Station

(actually in Sibson). This is the headquarters of the Nene Valley Railway. An absolute must to visit ! The home of Thomas the Tank Engine and a host of historic steam engines, you can ride to as far as Peterborough enjoying a line that has, over the years,  been used for filming, amongst many others, Secret Army, a Queen rock video, Middlemarch, Goldeneye, and Murder on the Orient Express.

Next to Elton Lock stands a glorious abandoned mill (grade ll listed). There are moorings immediately above the lock. I’ve twice walked into the village and dined outside The Crown ph under a great spreading Horse Chestnut tree, where I’ve enjoyed as good a pub meal as ever I happen chanced upon!

Soon the English Perpendicular style octagonal tower of the great St Mary’s church of Fotheringhay appears on the horizon. St Mary’s has strong connections to the Yorkist cause in the Wars of the Roses.  The Dukes of York had a family mausoleum in the church.  Richard III was born at Fotheringhay Castle (demolished 1630) and Mary Queen of Scotts was executed there in 1587. There are private visitor moorings here. They are not expensive (£5/overnight) and the farmer collects your money shortly after you arrive. The village pub, The Falcon, is well spoken of for its food. Although (for some  inexplicable reason) I’ve not checked out the pub, I regularly moor at Fotheringhay.

Ashton Lock is near the village of Ashton which is a privately owned village, long associated with the Rothschild family. This private ownership is evidenced by all the front doors of the houses being painted the same colour. Ashton was the home every October of that important sporting competition – the National Conker Championship – until they moved 4 miles to Southwick near Oundle. There is a large colony of Red Kite around here, and I’ve witnessed 5 or 6 in one go, apparently following me up the river.

Oundle is a market town with a population of around 6,000, constructed in soft Northamptonshire Stone. Sadly Oundle appears to ‘turn its back’ on the river. But it’s worth crossing the adjoining flood meadow and visiting. There are often slightly fierce looking cattle grazing in the meadow, and I choose to cross it at the other end from them.

You will soon need to think about turning your bows downstream and returning the boat. If you’ve got sufficient time, the bridge at Lilford is as pretty a bridge as you’ll find anywhere.

It was said of the famous dancers Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers  “Fred was great, but don’t forget that Ginger did everything he did, backwards …. and in high heels !” Now you’ve got to Fotheringey, or Oundle or wherever the time left on your boat hire requires you to turn back and retrace your steps – just remember that the “Nene is just as beautiful backwards” (particularly if you’re wearing high heels ?). And like we do, you can always treat yourself to a Chinese meal on the way home, on the Grain Barge in Peterborough. Don’t forget to book yourself back through Stanground Lock.

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nene park peterborough

Are you yearning for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience that combines the charm of waterways with the tranquillity of nature? Look no further than Fox Narrowboats, a renowned narrowboat holiday provider in the Cambridgeshire Fens. Nestled in the picturesque town of March, Fox Narrowboats offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore the beautiful Nene Park Ferry Meadows and its heartwarming family-friendly facilities. Join us as we embark on a delightful long weekend journey, sailing the waters and exploring the wonders of Nene Park, Peterborough.

Setting Sail with Fox Narrowboats:

March welcomes you with its quaint atmosphere and the promise of an unforgettable adventure. Fox Narrowboats boasts a fleet of meticulously maintained narrowboats, ensuring comfort and convenience during your journey.

Exploring Nene Park:

nene park waterways

Our long weekend adventure takes us to Nene Park, a true gem in the heart of Peterborough. (journey time approx 13 hours return and 6 locks) The park is a haven of natural beauty, offering a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The crown jewel of the park is Ferry Meadows, a sprawling landscape boasting meadows, woodlands, and lakes.

Ferry Meadows: A Family-Friendly Oasis:

Ferry Meadows welcomes you with open arms, offering an array of activities that cater to families and individuals alike. The park’s well-maintained trails invite leisurely strolls, energizing bike rides, and pleasant picnics amidst the lush greenery. The idyllic lakes are perfect for fishing, birdwatching, and even kayaking, allowing you to connect with nature in unique ways.

For families, the park provides an abundance of options to create cherished memories. The adventure playgrounds will delight children as they climb, swing, and slide to their heart’s content. The miniature railway adds a touch of magic, offering rides that are sure to enchant the young and young at heart. And if you’re a wildlife enthusiast, the park’s numerous bird species and resident animals will surely capture your attention.

Comfort and Relaxation on Board:

meal prep is easy in the well equipped galley

After a day of exploring the park’s natural wonders, your Fox Boat becomes a sanctuary of comfort and relaxation. Equipped with modern amenities, your narrowboat offers all the conveniences of home while allowing you to unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the water. Prepare a delicious meal in the well-appointed galley, or simply sit back and enjoy the sunset from the cozy living area.

Creating Lasting Memories:

As your long weekend journey comes to an end, you’ll find that the memories created aboard your Fox Narrowboat and amidst the beauty of Nene Park are truly unforgettable. From the serenity of the waterways to the laughter-filled moments in the park, this holiday experience is a tapestry woven with joy, connection, and nature’s beauty.

In conclusion, a long weekend narrowboat holiday with Fox Narrowboats in March, exploring Nene Park and Ferry Meadows in Peterborough, promises an enchanting experience for families and individuals seeking both adventure and relaxation. The park’s family-friendly facilities, coupled with the comfort and charm of a narrowboat, create the perfect recipe for an idyllic getaway. Whether you’re sailing along the waterways, exploring the park’s treasures, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones, this unique holiday will leave you with cherished memories that last a lifetime. So, why wait? Embark on this journey of a lifetime and let the magic of Fox Narrowboats and Nene Park captivate your heart and soul.

Start planning your narrowboat cruise today! Check availability now for your next family adventure.

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Image credit: ferry meadows shutterstock (top) 

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Following the festive season the month of January can feel like a real downer, as it creeps in with the cold weather and dismally short, dark days. Yet the New Year can also put us in the mood for planning ahead, so why not brighten up your January by organising this year’s holiday?

British holidaymakers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of booking early, according to research done by ABTA, the UK’s largest travel association. Better deals and cheaper prices are some of the main reasons for booking early, according to ABTA research, with 62 per cent of people naming this as their motivation.

It can be fun to make a spur of the moment holiday decision, and hope to get a last minute deal, but early booking, particularly in January and February has many advantages.

Booking in advance can mean better availability, and with Fox Narrowboats you’re more likely to get the boat of your choice. It’s also easier to get time off work on your desired dates if you plan well ahead.

Remember it’s not just British tourists who are looking forward to their summer holiday, but hundreds of tourists from other countries too. We have a limited number of available boats and dates.

Even if you’re not quite ready to book your 2018 cruise, January is a great time to start plotting your narrowboat escape. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the top three destinations you should visit in the Fens this year – which are sure to whet your appetite for a boating holiday.

1) Cambridge University

The University of Cambridge, with its impressive college buildings, some dating back to the 13th century, is a charming place to explore and will provide endless enjoyment for your visit. You may also like punting, cycling, shopping and eating out in Cambridge.

2) Ely Cathedral

The cathedral’s famous lantern tower can be seen for miles around, and the cathedral is also recognised for its other 14th century addition, the Lady Chapel with its delicate carved stonework. The Stained Glass Window Museum is a hidden gem within the cathedral with a display of over 100 original stained glass panels. Ely is also known for its antique centres, ancient narrow streets, timbered houses and medieval gateways.

3) Ferry Meadows Park

This 250 acres of parkland is a great place to moor up for a day and offers entertainment for all the family. There is a huge watersports centre, lakes for boating and sailing, and the Nene Valley Railway, offering trips on a heritage steam or diesel train.

Something to Look Forward to

One of the best ways to beat the winter blues is to browse our blog and website, to research and book your narrowboat holiday. The beginning of the year will be a lot more tolerable when you’re counting down the days to your narrowboat escape! Don’t forget our 10% off London Boat Show holiday booking offer expires January 31st 2018

No time for browsing right now? Subscribe to our blog in the right sidebar; look for ‘Follow Blog’. We’ll send you two articles a month full of narrowboat holiday ideas in the Fens. (We don’t send spam or salesy type stuff – just interesting articles about boats and waterways!)

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How do you keep everybody happy, when you’re planning a narrowboat holiday?

Mum wants to browse the shops in a pretty market town, the kids want to run wild through the meadows and woodland, and Dad just wants a quiet real ale in a country pub somewhere.

But what if you could do all of these things and include a trip aboard a heritage steam or diesel train? Imagine relaxing in a restored wooden panelled coach or compartment and being taken back in time to the golden age of steam!

The Nene Valley steam railway is based near Peterborough, so you can easily include it in your narrowboat holiday. Foxboats Route 3 – March to Ferry Meadows Country Park is a 12 hours return trip and ideal for a short break.

If you want to plan a narrowboat holiday that keeps everybody happy, and includes something a little different, you could consider a steam train trip in your holiday plans.

The Nene Valley Railway line travels through a tunnel, (built in 1845,) to a country station at Yarwell on the Northamptonshire border. Visitors can use the train as a base to explore the stations at Wansford, Ferry Meadows with its country park, Orton Mere and its riverside walks and lakes, and the station in Peterborough.

The Narrowboat Journey

Setting off from our hire boat base in March, Cambridgeshire, you’ll pass Floods Ferry and the Greenwich Meridian, before heading on to Ashline Lock at the historic market town of Whittlesey. After leaving Whittlesey you’ll pass a couple of pubs and then head into more open countryside, travelling beside a deep brick pit. On the approach to Peterborough you will see the cathedral across the flat fields that lead to Stanground Lock. Peterborough Cathedral is the resting place of Katherine of Aragon and former resting place of Mary Queen of Scots, dating back to 654 AD.

A short branch of the River Nene leads from this lock, with Stanground Village on the left and a nature reserve on the right, before the river goes under the railway bridge and onto the wide waters of the Nene. Turn left here to find visitor moorings along the length of the park; which are really convenient for the city centre.

Carrying on up the river from the centre of Peterborough you will see a series of open spaces and wild areas on the right that are part of Nene Park: acres of meadows, lakes and woods running alongside the River Nene.

Further up river from Peterborough Bridge, after some guillotine locks and the moorings of Peterborough Yacht Club, you will come to the entrance of Ferry Meadows Country Park on the left. Then, a short connecting channel will take you into Orton Lake. Head towards the left-hand side of the lake and you will see some pontoons provided for visitor moorings.

Ferry Meadows is great for families, offering cycle hire, a visitor centre, shop, play areas, a miniature railway, walking, kite-flying, pony riding, nature-spotting and fishing as well as facilities for various water sports at the water sports centre and on its associated ponds and lakes.

So perhaps you could moor here and then join the steam train at Ferry Meadows Country Park. There is a regular steam train service and occasional diesel hauled services.

The NVR has just celebrated 40 years with a week of special anniversary events, with a number of special trains and attractions. You may like to visit the NVR website to find out about more upcoming special events and experiences.

For more surprising and unusual tips and ideas for your narrowboat holiday, 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.

Image Attribution
By PeterSkuce – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

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