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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Amazing things to do, Canal Blog, Narrowboaters knowledge

Do you know what’s so great about travelling at three miles an hour? Life slows down. The stress of to-do lists and notifications melt away, replaced by the gentle chug of the engine, the sound of the birds, and the wide skies stretching endlessly across the Fens. It’s no wonder so many narrowboaters find themselves reaching for a camera, or a phone, to capture the moment.

cambridge fens sky photography

cambridge fens sky

Boating through Cambridgeshire is ideal for anyone who enjoys photography, whether you’re a talented professional, or just someone who can’t resist sharing beautiful moments on Instagram. From flora and fauna, to ancient architecture, here are some ideas to help you savour the scenery and take home more than just memories from your holiday.

What Makes the Fens So Photogenic?

The Fenland waterways have a special kind of beauty. Think endless skies reflecting in still waters, sunrise mist over quiet fields, and flocks of birds skimming the reeds. The landscape is flat, which means big skies and long, golden sunsets. Plus, the ever-changing light creates a moody atmosphere that you’ll want to photograph.

ely cathedral fens

ely cathedral fens

Add to that the historic charm of riverside towns and villages, like Ely’s medieval cathedral or St Ives’ stunning chapel bridge, and you’ve got a pretty cool backdrop for every kind of shot.

st ives bridge across river

st ives bridge

Photography Tips From the Towpath

You don’t even need an expensive camera to get good photos these days. Most smartphones can capture something pretty decent, and you can always tweak things in an app later.

fenland waterways ely mooring places

fenland waterways

Golden Hour magic: Early mornings and late afternoons – known to photographers as the golden hour, offer soft, warm lighting that’s flattering for landscapes, and people.

Tell a story: Try capturing more than just the view. A candid photo of a family member making tea in the galley, or your dog watching ducks float by, make meaningful holiday memories. Get some pics of your crew operating a lock, or the skipper, steering the boat.

Snap with respect: The canals are home to colourful liveaboard boats, often beautifully painted. Feel free to photograph the boats, but avoid taking photos of people without asking first.

Keep it steady: On a moving boat, things can get a bit wobbly. Depending on the shot you want, you may need to moor up for a bit.

Use reflections: The calm surface of the waterways make brilliant mirrors. Look for moments when the water is still for stunning symmetrical shots.

Picture-Perfect Stops along the Way

There are some places along the Fenland waterways that are practically begging to be photographed. We like to think of them as the wonders of the waterways:

cambridge university bridge of sighs

cambridge university bridge of sighs

St Ives Chapel Bridge: One of the last remaining bridges with a chapel, it looks like something from a fairy tale, especially at sunset. The chapel is still used as a place of worship today.

Ely Cathedral: Towering above the town, the “Ship of the Fens” can be seen for miles. Moor nearby and take a stroll through the charming ancient streets, to find your perfect angle.

Cambridge’s Bridge of Sighs: This covered bridge with a romantic name and beautiful details wouldn’t look out of place in a Harry Potter movie. Best viewed from the water, so you may like to hire a punt; a small boat propelled by pushing a pole against the river bed.

The Middle Level Navigation: Remote, peaceful, and full of wildlife. Perfect for capturing that feeling of being far away from it all. Our marina is located on the Middle Level.

Capturing the Local Wildlife

Obviously, photographing animals requires some patience, but the Fens are full of good opportunities:

Look out for swans gliding past your boat, or herons lurking in the shallows. If you’re lucky, you might spot a kingfisher; a rare flash of blue darting over the water.

whooping swan taking off cambridgeshire fens

In the fields and skies, hares, kestrels, and owls all make appearances, especially if you’re travelling quietly.

fenland barn owl

fenland barn owl

Keeping the Memories Alive

Once you’re home, those photos will become some of your favourite souvenirs. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

  • Make a travel photo book with your favourite shots.
  • Print and frame a standout picture from the trip.
  • Share your best snaps on social media, and tag us @FoxNarrowboats! (Links to our socials are at the bottom of this page.)

Final Thoughts

A boating holiday is more than just a getaway, it’s a chance to really slow down and see things. To notice the curve of a bridge, the ripple of water, and the way light falls through the trees. Mindfully taking photos helps you to be in the moment, and appreciate the beauty of your journey.

So pack your camera (or just your phone), get on board, and discover just how photogenic a Fox Narrowboats holiday can be. Because the best views in Cambridgeshire are just waiting to be seen (and snapped) from the water.

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 posts straight to your inbox. (We never share your email address, it’s just for the blog.)

Image credits: All – Deposit photos

 

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Canal boaters & writers, Featured articles, Narrowboaters knowledge
melody narrowboat alice elgie

The sound of geese wake me up and I groggily open my eyes to look at the clock, whose hands are pointing firmly at an unearthly hour for a Saturday morning…but how can I be upset when I’m gently rocking beneath a canopy of green and, upon giving in and sitting up, look out of my window to spy a gaggle of goslings—yellow and fluffy, small and endearing—being fiercely protected by mum and dad from passing runners? I can’t be angry, of course, so instead I sink back into my cosy bed and feel thankful that I’m back on the water for spring.

melody narrowboat alice elgie fenland waterways

melody narrowboat alice elgie

This season is my favourite, and for me, on the canals of England is the only place to be when it begins to take hold. Blackthorn blossom floating like confetti, hawthorn leaves, shiny and green, bursting their buds in quick succession, and goslings, ducklings, baby moorhens (which I like to affectionally call ‘pom poms’!)…there is a sense of life in the air and in my opinion, there really is nowhere like it anywhere else on earth.

goslings alice elgie spring on the cut

goslings – alice elgie

If you’re looking to experience wildlife and nature at its best whilst on your narrowboat holiday on the fens, try Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve which can be accessed from the canal:

Fox Blog – Wicken Fen

wicken fen visitors centre

wicken fen visitors centre – credit: fox narrowboats

I moved onto my very first narrowboat in the spring of 2010. See more about buying my first narrowboat on this blog. Those weeks spent watching the wintry world come to life through numerous windows, have stayed with me. I thought I’d hit the jackpot to be sharing my daily life with such an abundance of wildlife and as the season unfurled in all her glory, I also found myself spending far more time outside than usual.

Wicken Mill

There’s something about narrowboats being nestled so within nature that you can’t help but be drawn outside. In a house, you never know what the weather is doing and it’s easy to get complacent and comfortable, staying glued to a favourite TV show, or endlessly scrolling on a screen. But nature through a narrowboat window sucks you in—and ultimately out!—like no YouTube show ever can.

Do you long to make time for more walking?

Being on the canals also encourages us to exercise more, with a plethora of opportunities to don your walking boots and go out exploring on relatively flat and easy ground. Even BBC are extolling the benefits of walking (article on BBC website) and if you’re on a narrowboat holiday, you can take the opportunity to let inspiration lead you.

holme fen cc wiki wehh

holme fen credit wiki wehh

Whether the sun is shining, or there’s a shower on the horizon, stepping outside never fails to lift the mood, as well as give us a boost of vitamin D. With a number of picturesque places to visit on the Fens—including pubs, restaurants, or perhaps even a gentle stroll to the local shop—there’s no excuse to not indulge.

Looking for Inspiration? Then check out this interactive Fens Waterways Map for Narrowboaters: 

So if you’re looking for a boost and need to be reminded of the simple joys in life, or you’re perhaps just craving respite from the busyness, spring on the waterways might be just the ticket—even with those noisy geese!

What is the cut?

Alice Elgie is a writer who splits time between a narrowboat on the waterways of England, a cottage in France, and a camper on the open road. She shares words about this life on her blog: slowintotheseasons.substack.com

Credits: Narrowboat – Alice Elgie, Goslings, Wicken Fen Visitors Centre – Fox Wicken Mill, Holme Fen – wiki wehh

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Narrowboaters knowledge, Owning & living on a narrowboat
greener living on a narrowboat
solar panels on narrowboat greener living

greener living on a narrowboat

Being in the shower when everything went dark was quite the experience, but luckily it wasn’t a power cut and no, it’s not an everyday occurrence on water. Instead, I was on my first ever family narrowboat holiday and the appointed skipper had decided on an early-morning journey through Braunston Tunnel…

Life on a narrowboat is different to a house however, and familiarising yourself with those differences might save you from being up the canal without a paddle.

Conserving Energy

For me, as a (mostly) continuously cruising liveaboard, I always have a solar panel on the roof to keep my power topped up but still it’s important to be mindful—unless you want your entire roof to be covered in panels with little space left for spring flowers.

For instance, charging whilst the boat is moving and therefore the engine is on and boosting your batteries is always useful, and device battery time can be prolonged by occasionally switching off. When it comes to using items such as hair straighteners and hairdryers, why not avoid sending sparks flying due to power overload by embracing narrowboat life with a sense of simplicity and carefreeness? I like to let my hair dry naturally in the (hopefully) sunny summer weather, or perched in front of a toasty wood stove!

Need to be tempted to leave the hairdryer at home? Then check out this post:

10 Great things about living on a narrowboat – Fox Blog

Using Less

When it comes to water, you’re bound by what you can carry on board and if there’s more than one of you and you’re all indulging in daily Hollywood showers, then it’s not going to last too long. But here’s the thing: are we not all meant to be thinking about our environmental impact?

There are of course plentiful stations along the canals and rivers where you can top up your tank, but being resourceful first is always a plus. If you’re on a boat just for a holiday, then it might also encourage you to question longer term, if you really need to leave that tap running whilst brushing your teeth…

Caring for your Community

From grey water that goes back out into the canal to then be enjoyed by our beautiful wildlife, to the amount of rubbish we produce that then gets sent to landfill, life on a narrowboat certainly makes you think carefully about waste.

When it comes to shower and washing-up water choosing natural products is always best, for us and also for the feathered and gilled friends we share the waterways with. As for rubbish, when you have to store it on your boat and take it yourself to a disposal point slimming down on packaging is always at the forefront of my mind.

Black water can be disposed of at a pumpout facility as shown in the Imray guides.

The Fun Factor

Perhaps it doesn’t sound like fun to always be thinking about these things but actually, it can be very relaxing. The less you have, the less you have to worry about so why not use your move afloat—or narrowboat holiday—as an opportunity to get back to basics, considering not only the environment, but also the impact that ‘always on’ technology might be having on you and your family. Pulling out a battered copy of Monopoly or Scrabble might be just the bonding experience you’ve been waiting for.

Freedom of the Open Road Canal

Of course, it’s the sense of independence that’s the big selling point for narrowboat life. Imagine: everything you need is on board with you, so why not switch off the Smartphone, pack some books, leave the hairdryer at home and experience ultimate freedom, even in the sense of a shower on the move—with or without light!

If you would like to find out a little more about what you can expect on board

Narrowboat holidays all you need to know – Fox blog

Alice Elgie is a writer who splits time between a narrowboat on the waterways of England, a cottage in France, and a camper on the open road. She shares words about this life on her blog: slowintotheseasons.substack.com

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Amazing things to see, Canal Blog, Ely & Cambridge
bridge of sighs cambridge

The original ‘Seven Wonders of the Waterways’ was a list compiled by the writer Robert Aickman: Canal geeks will know him as co-founder of the Inland Waterways Association. At a time when the canals had all but crumbled into a state of disrepair, IWA campaigned to save the waterways for leisure use. Aickman’s list included iconic structures like the Pontycsyllte Aquaduct in Wales, the Anderton Boat Lift, and the Bingley Five Rise locks.

But what about the Fenland Waterways? The flat landscape here doesn’t really lend itself to towering aqueducts, but our peaceful waterways still offer plenty of history, wildlife, and fascinating structures. Here are our suggestions for the ‘Seven Wonders of the Fenland Waterways’, each offering something special for any hire boaters visiting the area.

  1. St Ives Medieval Chapel Bridge

fens day st ives riverside

st ives medieval chapel bridge

This impressive 15th-century bridge is one of only four remaining chapel bridges in England. The picturesque stone arches and historic chapel across the Great River Ouse, make it one of the most beautiful sights on the Fenland waterways. This is still a place of worship, and it also hosts various arts events. Can you imagine all the traders, monks, and travellers who crossed this bridge in times gone by? There are public moorings at St Ives Quay (with a water point) and The Waites. Moorings are also available for customers at The Dolphin Hotel.

  1. Ely Cathedral

ely cathedral licenced image

ely cathedral

Ely Cathedral, is sometimes known as the “Ship of the Fens,” and can be seen for miles across the flat Fenland landscape. This stunning medieval masterpiece dates back to 1083 and is known for its breath-taking octagonal lantern tower. Boaters can moor up in Ely and take a short walk from the moorings, to explore its magnificent architecture and history. Don’t miss the stained glass museum while you are there!

  1. Cambridge’s Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs Cambridge

bridge of sighs cambridge

While Venice may have the original, Cambridge’s Bridge of Sighs is a beauty in its own right. Built in 1831, this elegant covered bridge at St John’s College crosses the River Cam and can be visited on foot. In Cambridge, the furthest you can travel by narrowboat in the summer is to Jesus Green Lock, because the Cambridge Backs are busy with small unpowered craft, called punts. Hiring a punt on the Backs is a Cambridge tradition, but you’ll see more of the River Cam by hiring a narrowboat.

  1. St German’s Pumping Station

st germans pumping station

st germans pumping station – bob evens

The Fenlands are a landscape shaped by water, and St German’s Pumping Station plays a crucial role in keeping them navigable. The modern station, completed in 2010, replaced a Victorian-era pumping system and is one of the largest pumping stations in Europe. It helps prevent flooding in over 700 square kilometres of land, showcasing the engineering marvels that keep the Fenlands afloat. The Middle Level Main Drain leading to the station is not part of the navigable waterways and cannot be accessed by boat. Instead, you may like to visit Stretham drainage engine, a steam-powered engine built in 1831. Or even better, Prickwillow Museum, just east of Ely, tells the story of the changing face of the Fens and its network of drainage systems and pumping stations. This museum contains a collection of large diesel pumping engines which have all been restored to working order.

  1. The Middle Level Navigation

benwick river nene middle level cc kevin banks

This complex network of rivers, drains, and channels connects the Fenland waterways with the River Nene and the Great Ouse. Dating back to drainage schemes of the 17th century, the Middle Level provides boaters with a fascinating route through remote landscapes, historic villages, and abundant wildlife. It’s a true hidden gem for adventurous cruisers. Fox Boats marina is on the Middle Level.

  1. Buckden Great Tower

Bukden Great Tower St Hugh's Church wiki

Bukden Great Tower St Hugh’s Church – Richard Kelly

Standing on the banks of the River Great Ouse, Buckden Towers has a fascinating royal history. This striking medieval tower was once a residence of the Bishops of Lincoln and, most famously, served as a place of imprisonment for Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII, after their divorce. A visit here offers a glimpse into Tudor intrigue and the fate of a wronged queen. There are public moorings on the River Great Ouse at Huntingdon and the 66 bus runs every 30 minutes. Buckden Towers is now a conference and retreat centre. The grounds, but not the buildings, are open to visitors, and dogs are not allowed.

  1. The River Great Ouse

March Mole River Ouse

March Mole River Ouse

As the fourth-longest river in the UK, the River Great Ouse is the lifeblood of the Fenland waterways. Winding its way through stunning countryside, historic towns, and past centuries-old landmarks, it offers some of the most scenic and enjoyable boating routes in the region. Whether you’re mooring up in charming Ely, exploring St Ives, or simply enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the open water, the Great Ouse is a true wonder in itself.

Discover the Wonders for Yourself

The Fenland waterways may not have grand aqueducts or boat lifts, but they offer a unique charm, history, and beauty that make them a wonder to explore. From medieval bridges to royal intrigue, from engineering marvels to breath-taking scenery, these seven wonders showcase why a boating holiday in the Fens is an unforgettable experience.

Ready to explore the Seven Wonders of the Fenland Waterways? Book your narrowboat adventure with Fox Narrowboats and set off on a journey through history, nature, and hidden gems!

Are you new here? Click ‘Blog’ (top right) and look for ‘Follow Blog’ in the right sidebar to get the latest helpful holiday tips for this season. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll just be sending you selected articles from our blog.)

Image credits: St Ives Bridge – Fox, Ely Cathedral – istock, Bridge of Sighs – Deposit, St germans pumping station wiki CC SA-3.0 Bob1960evens, Bukden Great Tower St Hugh’s Church wiki CC BY-SA-4.0 Richard Kelly 

 

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by Paula SyredPosted on Posted in Foxes News, Uncategorized
Paula Syred and the Fox Family

Paula Syred and the Fox Family

Cruise Moor is delighted to announce three more independent family run marinas have joined its unique mooring scheme.

Lechlade, Shepperton and Fox Narrowboats are the latest trio of marinas to sign up to the scheme bringing the grand total of participating marinas to Cruise Moor to nine.

Officially launched in 2024 at Boatlife in Birmingham by Aqueduct (Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union), Dunchurch Pools (North Oxford Canal), Droitwich Spa (Droitwich Junction Canal), Overwater (Shropshire Union Canal) and White Mills (River Nene), the scheme which offers boaters one free weeks mooring at each participating marina has been set up to encourage more boaters to get out and about and explore the waterways network. Fenny Marina on the southern arm of the Oxford Canal became the sixth marina to join late last year.

Ian and Jules Lindsay spent four years looking for their own marina before buying 100 berth Lechlade Marina in 2018.  With its large slipway it is a popular launch point for Wilderness, Sea Otters and other trailable boats wanting to cruise the Thames. Ian said, “To join a scheme which actively promotes independent family run marinas is brilliant for us. We all care deeply and value our customers, so by joining Cruise Moor it is another way of showing our customers how much we appreciate them.”

Ian’s sentiments are echoed by Paula Syed who with her sister Tracey and daughter Emily operate their 200 berth marina Fox Narrowboats on the Middle Levels.  Founded by their father in 1980, Paula is a firm advocate of independent and family run businesses. “Everyone should be encouraging all boaters to use the entire waterways network, hopefully Cruise Moor will help do exactly that especially as more marinas sign up. We are very happy to be part of this exciting new initiative and look forward to welcoming boaters to our part of the waterways network.”

The third family run marina to join the scheme is the 400 berth Shepperton Marina located on the River Thames between Shepperton and Sunbury locks.

Marina Manager Lisa Harris added, “We were drawn to join Cruise Moor because of its strong commitment to supporting boaters and independent marinas alike. The initiative not only promotes responsible mooring practices but also provides well-maintained mooring spots.  By partnering with independent marinas, Cruise Moor helps boost independent businesses while making it easier for boaters to explore beautiful waterways. We believe this initiative will greatly benefit the boating community, fostering a sense of connection and sustainability for years to come.”

More About Cruise Moor

cruise moor scheme memberJoin the Cruise Moor Scheme. Get 1 weeks free mooring. Choose from 9 or more independent marina’s. Learn more

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Booking budget tips, Canal Blog, Narrowboat holidays
collage spring 2025 narrowboat holiday

Spring always feels like an optimistic time, to me. The weather is getting better and the daffodils and primroses are out. It’s a beautiful time to take a relaxing narrowboat holiday. As the waterways wake up after winter, you’ll find that April and May are fantastic months to explore the Fenland waterways, and if you book early, you’ll enjoy some great benefits!

collage spring 2025 wildlife narrowboat holiday river cambridge lily flower ely mooring

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.

collage spring 2025 fox narrowboats 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

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 fox narrowboat holiday-st ives

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

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

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Canal boaters & writers
alice narrowboat purchase family photo canal cruising
alice narrowboat purchase family photo canal cruising

alice narrowboat purchase family photo canal cruising

The perfect blend of abundant wildlife, calming water, and space to take a deep breath away from the hubbub of the world up there, is what draws so many of us to the canals, myself included.

As a child I grew up in a city that has the Grand Union Canal running through its heart so in the summer holidays my mum would often pack a picnic and we’d stroll together along the towpath exploring the different species of trees and grasses, flowers and butterflies.

By the time I was in my late teens and working in offices throughout that same city, I would head off during my lunch hour to seek out the canal. Perhaps with a book in hand, or on a winter’s day, for a brisk stroll. For me, the canals have always provided solace from a busy world and throughout all the years spent travelling in other countries, it’s always the waterways of England I most long for.

If you’re looking to experience a pretty town in the Fenlands where a waterway runs straight through, you might check out March:

www.visitcambridgeshirefens.org/fenland-towns/march-14

After one such trip back in 2010 where, along with my little family, we had tired from 18 months travelling in a campervan and decided the time was right to put roots down, the waterways were presented as the perfect location.

alice narrowboat purchase wildlife

alice narrowboat at home with nature

My husband and I had long enjoyed trips out on a friend’s narrowboat and when he suggested that perhaps our budget could stretch to a canal boat to live on, our eyes were opened to a new way of living; a way that would enable us to have our own permanent home yet still with a sense of freedom, and allow our young daughter a natural environment within which to grow. We were sold!

Planning on going narrowboat shopping? 

If you’re planning to go narrowboat shopping but are a novice, it’s always a good idea to enlist an “in-the-know” friend to accompany you. When we first went looking for our perfect floating home such a friend was invaluable, advising us about key things to look out for such as checking the inspection hatch for water in the hull, whether pumps were all working properly and of course, offering all important advice on water tanks and loo systems. It was also reassuring to have an ally with a little more expertise when negotiating offers and surveys and generally. Having the benefit of someone else’s knowledge gave us confidence in a world that, at that time, was completely new to us.

I’m pleased to say we successfully bought and moved onto our first narrowboat in spring 2010 and having boater friends by our side along the way—as well as buying from a reputable marina—made the process fun and fuss-free. We’ve never looked back!

Being able to appreciate the jewel that is England’s waterways from the back deck whilst meandering on a spring day, or sitting out on the front deck listening to the buzz of insects on a summer’s evening, to every window being graced with the oranges, reds and yellows of an autumnal season, and laying in bed with the sound of ice cracking in winter…we never take our first tentative step into this watery world, for granted.

If you’re in the position to build your dream from scratch, then be sure to check out Fox Narrowboat Building Services:

www.foxboats.co.uk/marina/boat-building/

Or if you’ve found your dream boat and would like to find an equally dreamy mooring, then maybe pop your name on the waiting list for Fox Narrowboats modern boating marina situated in the heart of the Middle Level Navigation in March.

www.foxboats.co.uk/marina/moorings

Alice Elgie is a writer who splits time between a narrowboat on the waterways of England, a cottage in France, and a camper on the open road. She shares words about this life on her blog: slowintotheseasons.substack.com

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Canal boaters & writers

alice elgie a family narrowboat experience

Sitting on the roof of a narrowboat soaking up the sunset after a day of locks, camaraderie and laughter, felt like the perfect end to day one of a family holiday.

I was 16 years old and there were 7 of us on board. To be fair, when the idea of a family narrowboat holiday was floated I thought it sounded like it might be a rather torturous experience, but instead it ended up becoming one of the more memorable holidays of my life. 

Despite growing up alongside the canal and always having a fascination with the sense of calm it brought — along with endless opportunities for adventures in nature such as ‘going exploring’ with friends in the summer holidays, climbing trees and picnicking — I didn’t actually step aboard a narrowboat until that holiday but very quickly, I was hooked.

Leisurely mornings sharing breakfast whilst watching the ducks and swans gliding around outside the window, hiding out in our ‘bunk bedrooms’ playing cards and chatting, taking long walks along the towpath, the buzz of dragonflies and bees filling my ears; it felt like we had discovered a world within a world. Up above was the rush of traffic and busyness, but down on the water we had found a magical space stopped in time where we were able to relax and absorb the moment.

There was also a strong sense of teamwork as we all helped with the new and rather exciting experience of working our boat through locks and evenings were enjoyed all together, either eating at a pub we managed to moor up next to, or setting up the bbq and eating dinner in the middle of nature. I hadn’t experienced anything quite like it and despite being a teenager who might ordinarily have been seeking out bright lights and parties, I found the experience to be incredibly adventurous.

If you’ve got younger children read our blog 4 Things Every Parent Should Know About Narrowboat Holidays and alleviate your worries that they will be bored!

Even 30+ years ago this holiday provided me with an opportunity to step away from the routine and have my eyes opened to something different and in our increasingly always-on world, an escape to something different is perhaps more needed now than ever. Not to mention that on a narrowboat travelling at 4mph along the beautiful Fenland Waterways, parents won’t be able to do anything but slow down and hit the reset button.

All these years later I still reminisce fondly about the joy experienced on this family holiday that not only exposed a different way of life to me, but also nurtured a sense of camaraderie, encouraged quality time together, and strengthened bonds—the memories are firmly imprinted on my mind’s eyes. Plus these days I still enjoy sitting on the roof of my own narrowboat admiring the sunset after a long day of locks!

Are you ready to make some family memories? Then let Fox narrowboats take the strain and curate your perfect adventure: www.foxboats.co.uk/holidays

Not convinced by my memories alone, then enjoy this post: Why Narrowboating is the Perfect Family Holiday.

Alice Elgie is a writer who splits time between a narrowboat on the waterways of England and a cottage in France. She shares words about this life on her blog: slowintotheseasons.substack.com

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Amazing things to do, Booking budget tips, Canal Blog
romantic boat tripnarrowboat cambridgeshire

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

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.

 

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by Tim MarrowPosted on Posted in Canal Blog, Narrowboat building

What is a Narrowboat?

A narrowboat is a boat of a distinctive design, made to fit the narrow canals of England and Wales. They were used to transport goods around the UK during the industrial revolution circa 1750-1900. Today many boats have been converted to permanent living spaces, according to Wikipedia there are around 8,500 that have been registered.

industrial revolution narrowboat 1944 regents canal

industrial revolution narrowboat 1944 regents canal* | credit: public domain wiki

If your interested in getting a narrowboat built, we think its a good idea to research the process of building a narrowboat to understand the pros and cons of different boat layouts. Space if very important vs the comfort of piloting a narrowboat.

modern narrowboat hire or permanent living typical layout

modern narrowboat hire or permanent living typical layout | credit: fox narrowboats

Planning – Size restrictions

Width consideration

Narrow locks allow boats with a width under 7 feet (2.13m). so most narrowboats are made to a width of 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 m) wide.

Length consideration

A narrowboat’s maximum length is generally 72 feet (21.95 m). Some of the British Canal network has locks which are shorter, to access the entire network a maximum suggested length is 57 feet (17.37 m)

Planning – typical layouts for narrowboat length

47ft narrowboat layout plan 1 cabin

47ft narrowboat layout plan 1 cabin | credit: fox narrowboats

 

55ft narrowboat layout plan 2 cabin

55ft narrowboat layout plan 2 cabin | credit fox narrowboats

 

60ft narrowboat layout plan 2 cabin

60ft narrowboat layout plan 2 cabin | credit: fox narrowboats

Planning – stern types

There are a number of layouts a narrowboat can take. First look at the stern type which can be categorised as: traditional, semi-traditional or cruiser.

Traditional

Smallest steering area

narrowboat stern type illustration traditional

traditional – stern type | credit fox narrowboats

The stern or rear section of the boat contains the steering often in the form of a tiller. This area can be protected by a canopy so the boat can be driven in all weather. Steps lead up from the interior. The helmsman looks over the length of the boat in order to steer the boat. The engine is placed below the stern deck along with batteries, and essential mechanical systems. This design is ideal for live aboard purposes, due to the short back deck of 2 -3 feet in length, giving more room inside for living accommodation.

Traditional layout

A more linear layout, with the living area directly connected to the galley and sleeping quarters. Focuses on maximizing internal living space with a straightforward flow from one area to another.

Semi Traditional

Medium sized rear area

narrowboat stern type illustration semi-traditional

semi-traditional stern type | credit fox narrowboats

A mix between a traditional stern and a cruiser stern, with a larger partially enclosed area at the rear. A wheel steering system is sometimes fitted, is more comfortable suitable for longer journeys. The helm can be covered with a canopy, providing some protection from the elements while still allowing for good visibility. More sociable and can fit 2-6 people in this area.

Cruiser

Largest sized steering area

narrowboat stern type illustration cruiser

cruiser stern type | credit fox narrowboats

The deck is usually 2 metres or more long and is open planned, but it is surrounded with safety rails. The engine is usually found below the deck and is accessed by lifting a section of the decking. The stern can be rounded or square. A square stern boat gives more deck space but can be more difficult to manoeuvre, especially in reverse.

Layout

More flexible layouts, often featuring a larger living area or separate dining space. Can zone living, cooking, and sleeping areas providing more privacy and comfort.

Planning – traditional open plan design

Dining & living area

Comfortable seating arrangement, with a sofa or chairs, which often is designed to convert into a bed. There are specialist narrowboat furniture furnishers that can create pieces to order, check the Fox article Moving onto a narrowboat: storage & maintenance considerations. The dining area has space for a table and can be folding to utilise space. Traditional narrowboats have large windows to allow natural light and views of the riverside.

interior living space narrowboat

interior living space narrowboat | credit fox

Galley / Kitchen

The galley is usually placed 1 side of the boat near to the dining area. Appliances such as a stove, oven, refrigerator, and sink can be installed akin to a modern kitchen. Clever storage in the form of cabinets, drawers for food and cooking supplies much like a caravan is especially important for living.

interior galley kitchen narrowboat

interior galley kitchen narrowboat | credit fox

Bathroom (Wet Room)

Usually has a compact shower unit or a complete wet room choose a pump out or cassette toilet. Small sink with storage directly underneath.

interior bathroom narrowboat

interior bathroom narrowboat | credit fox

Bedroom (Cabins)

Have space for a fixed double bed or 2 single beds. Longer narrowboats have more cabins and therefore sleeping space. The living / dining space can also feature a foldout bed making another cabin during the night. Clever storage is cruicial if your going to live on the boat. Fitted wardrobes, wall shelving and under bed storage can all help keep the boat tidy. For privacy cabin doors or curtains can be fitted.

Bow area

First light in the morning can be beautiful and serene sitting at the bow (front) of a narrowboat. You can invest in a removabale canopy for when the elements are less favourable and you can get fresh air in the rain.

 

Image credits:

Industrial revolution narrowboat 1944 regents canal is in the public domain – wiki link

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