canal tow path cycling with family

So, the nights are drawing in, the clocks are about to change, and the summer boating season is sadly over! Here at Fox Boats we will be winterising our narrowboats, which involves a series of maintenance jobs that keep the boats at their best while they’re out of use.

Read: How Winter Threatens to Damage Your Narrowboat – 3 Ways to Protect Yourself

So here are our top three tips for enjoying the winter months

1) Exercise

We all know that exercise can help to boost our mental health, so if you live near to a canal, running, walking or cycling on the towpath can offer a workout in the sunlight. Being close to nature can also lift your mood; not just the water and plants, but the busy ducks, swans, moorhens and geese can cheer you up. When you’re on a narrowboat holiday interesting exercise options are included, such as, operating the locks, walking between the locks, and pulling ropes and hammering pegs when mooring the boat up.

canal tow path cycling

canal tow path cycling with family

2) Festivities

There are some happy occasions to look forward to in the winter. Halloween offers themed events, or paranormal investigations. This year Oliver Cromwell’s House offers some walking tours themed around ghosts and witches.

Oliver Cromwell House

Oliver Cromwell House. Photo by Gwendraith at English Wikipedia

This offers special events and house tours throughout the year, and you can visit by boat when travelling on the River Great Ouse. Ely is claimed to be one of England’s spookiest cities. (Read more in The Spooky Truth About Cruising to Ely.) The strange and compelling landscape of the Fens, with their huge skyscapes, reclaimed marshlands and scattered and isolated villages can be very eerie at this time of year. Peterborough Museum, claims to have eight resident ghosts. They include a First World War soldier and a ghostly kitchen maid. This museum can also be visited by boat if you are taking the March to Peterborough cruise. This 12 hour return trip is ideal for a short break.

Fens Wetland

Fens Wetland. Photo by Sam Forson

It wouldn’t be winter in England without Christmas, including festive markets and a trip to church. The ancient architecture, candlelight, holly and ivy, and special services such as carols, advent, christingles and nativities can brighten up a dark day. If you’re planning a narrowboat holiday for next year check out Four Churches to Visit When it’s Not Even Christmas. Even Christmas shopping can be fun if your friends and family are into boating: Read Thoughtful Christmas Gifts for the Narrowboater in Your Life. Our local attractions usually host special Christmas events: Father Christmas will be at Wicken Fen Nature Reserve, and the Winter Lights at Anglesey Abbey offer a beautiful, sensory after-dark journey.

3) Plan Ahead

Nothing beats the winter blues like planning your next holiday though. A narrowboat holiday can be particularly good for boosting a low mood, as you can travel slowly through stunning scenery, under our spectacular Fenland skies, away from the noise of modern life. On a waterways holiday you may find that you are outside more than you would be on some other types of British holiday, getting that all important dose of daylight and vitamin D.

outwell fox narrow boat moored by the shops

Outwell Fox narrow boat moored by the shops

You may also like: Feeling Stressed? 5 Ways This Unknown Village Can Soothe Your Soul

We are in no doubt that our narrowboat holidays can chase away the blues because of the great feedback we get from our customers. Check out the kind words we’ve received in our customer reviews.

So, if you want to go narrowboating next year, choose your favourite narrowboat and plan your ideal cruise. Fox Boats are ideally situated on the uncrowded east Anglian waterways, near Cambridge, Ely and Peterborough.

For more articles to boost your mood this winter, sign up for digital updates from this blog. (We never share or sell email addresses – your details are safe with us.) Just look for ‘Follow Blog’ in the sidebar on the right and sign up today!

Tags: , , ,

fox narrowboat hire on the fens waterways
fox narrow boat hire fens

fox narrowboat hire on the fens waterways

Question – What’s green and yellow with a flash of red, floats below sea level, but isn’t a submarine ?

Answer – the Fox narrowboat that could be part of your next holiday!

The Fox narrowboat hire fleet is based on the Middle Level in March, in Cambridgeshire. The Middle Level is a largely man made group of rivers lying between the River Nene and the River Great Ouse. They were formed in the 17th century by the draining of marshy fens. As the land dried out it shrank resulting in (not a lot of people know this) most of the Middle Level being below mean sea level.

Fox boats give you unique luxury access to this beautiful and historic world, rife with wildlife, big sunsets and nearly forgotten history. Those of us who live or regularly boat here have kept this a well guarded secret, but I’m going to ‘spill the beans’ and let you in on it.

march waterways by local artist Adrian Veater

march waterways by local artist Adrian Veater Peterborough

Three out of four of the Fenland Market Towns offer visitor moorings. Although the big Tesco near the Fox hire base in March provides a good opportunity to stock up before your departure, the town centre moorings in March offer shopping opportunities, pubs and takeaways.

Ramsey

ramsey 40ft mooring

ramsey 40ft mooring

The extensive new visitor moorings in Ramsey finally offer the opportunity to explore this fascinating and rewarding town (also with a close by Tesco superstore).

ramsey dock 2017

ramsey dock 2017

An interesting feature is the Great Whyte, the main shopping street which had previously been the port until the river was built over in the 1850s. The river still flows below and is visible from the morning’s (https://ramseytunnels.co.uk)

Ramsey Basin

ramsey basin

Whittlesey

Whittlesey offers limited moorings at the back of a leisure centre and only a short walk from the historic market place. The highlight of Whittlesey’s year is the annual Straw Bear Festival in January when residents disguise themselves as bears by wrapping up in straw. (https://strawbear.org.uk)

Fenland History

Fenland has had many nicknames over the years and each one sheds a different light on the various aspects of its history.

Medieval

In Medieval times the area had a number of major ecclesiastical establishments, including Crowland, Ramsey, Chatteris and Thorney Abbeys, as well as Ely and Peterborough Cathedrals. Reflecting this ample provision for the spiritual, the name The Holy Land of the English was applied.

17th Century

Prior to the draining of the Fens in the 17th Century by a Dutchman, Cornelius Vermuyden, the area was often referred to as The Great Eastern Swamp, or The Old Drowned Lands.

The first drainage scheme was intended to provide relief from flooding during summer months and gave rise to the description The Summer Lands.

World War II

During WWII the productive rich black soil of the Fens was put to use feeding the country, which was in danger of going hungry as the German blockade of shipping tightened. The area then acquired the deserved nickname The Breadbasket of Britain.

The flat countryside, devoid of hills to disturb its great panoramic landscapes, has given rise to the name The Land of the Three-quarter Sky.

But we prefer to think of it as Fox Narrow Boat country!

In the Middle Ages Fenland enjoyed so many religious institutions that it attracted the description the ‘Holy Land of the English’. Not all have survived, but the March church of St Wendreda boasts a double hammer beam roof featuring 118 carved angels.

roof church st wendreda

roof church st wendreda

The founder of the Victorian Society, and former Poet Laureate, Sir John Betjeman wrote that the angel roof of St Wendreda’s church was ‘worth cycling forty miles into a head wind’ to see.

Those who have braved a fierce Fenland wind blowing from the Urals, uninterrupted by hills or trees, will appreciate quite how much effort is required to cycle so far in these conditions. And those who have visited St Wendreda’s will also appreciate quite how well that effort is rewarded – though the roof remains just as spectacular, even if less strenuous means of transport are used when visiting!

In the 19th century the only way agricultural workers in remote Fenland villages went anywhere was by walking. In 1896 the Vicar of Stretham resolved that if people couldn’t easily get to church, he would take the church to the people.

floating church fenland uk

floating church fenland uk

In 1896 a floating church was commissioned to serve the Fenland parish of Holme. At the time Holme had 42 houses spread over a distance of between two and four miles from the parish church by road, whereas they were all within one mile of the river, and 26 of them practically bankside.

Unable to ring bells from a conventional spire (which wouldn’t have fitted under the low fenland bridges), the Floating Church (or ‘Ark’ as it came to be known) flew two flags, those of St Andrew & St George, to announce that services were about to start. Between its launch and October 1904, a choir was formed, needlework and bible classes held, and 74 baptisms are recorded as having taken place on board.

In 1907 the barge was abandoned near Ramsey St Mary before being sold off to a group of young men who renamed it ‘Saint’s Rest’, converted it into a houseboat.

I’m the author of the Imray boating guide “Fenland Waters” – available from Foxs. If you’d like to know more of the history of our ‘secret’ world I invite you to buy a copy. Chris Howes.

See our interactive fenland waterways map for historic sights, moorings, pubs, restaurants & things to see and do on the middle level.

If you are interested in exploring the Fenland Waterways Foxs have day hire narrowboats and holiday boats available.

Hey! Are you new here? Subscribe on the right to receive more secrets of the undiscovered Fenland waterways, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.)

Image Credit: Chris Howes (except: Fox Narrowboats; top image & church roof St. Wendreda)

Tags: , , , , , ,

river wissey hilgay - wiki martin pearman
river wissey hilgay wiki Martin Pearman

river wissey hilgay

Is there anymore a relaxing and restorative holiday than on a narrowboat?

Is there any better way to immerse yourself in the natural world?

I’m that person with the lifestyle many of you envy. I’m semi-retired and live on a Fox narrowboat! So what does the person whose life can appear ‘one long holiday’ do for a holiday? I often stock up on provisions and cruise the tributaries of the River Great Ouse, the rivers Lark, Little Ouse and Wissey.

quiet east anglian waterways

quiet waterways

The days of traffic jams, congestion charging, ‘held up by roadworks’ and road rage are but a distant memory to me ! I never go anywhere fast in my boat, and occasionally marvel at the small minority of hirers who appear to feel the need to go as fast as possible, seemingly in an attempt to achieve the maximum possible mileage. My mantra is “if I was in a hurry I shouldn’t have bought a boat”. My formula for stress free living – relax and drink in the narrowboat experience.

prickwillow engine museum pumping station wheel

prickwillow engine museum

On the river Lark visit the brilliant Prickwillow Drainage Museum Open mainly Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays, April through September.

And explore upstream as far as Judes Ferry and reward yourself with good pub grub in the hostelry! It is a long standing boating tradition that you can’t turn around outside a pub without first sampling its wares. (Perhaps a less well known tradition, but one I strive to try and keep alive!)

The entrance to the Little Ouse is marked by The Ship at Brandon Creek PH. With both pub and EA visitor moorings the Ship also has a long tradition of feeding and watering the hungry boater.

Little Ouse narrowboat approach lock sluice gate

little ouse narrowboat approach lock sluice gate

The river Little Ouse features the breathtaking lovely Hockwold Fen part of an RSPB nature reserve. One evening my wife and I moored there on the GOBA mooring and were entertained all evening by nightingale song. Priceless!

Little Ouse GOBA Mooring

Little Ouse GOBA Mooring

Another star of the Little Ouse is the eye catching remains of the long abandoned Waterman’s Arms. How the ruins of this former pub defy gravity and remain standing defies belief!

derelict watermans arms

derelict watermans arms

The last of these three tributaries is the River Wissey. The lower reaches feel so remote as you squeeze through its tight reeds that it often reminds me of the film classic, the ‘African Queen’. My wife plays Katherine Hepburn to my Humphrey Bogart !

Marvel at the alien landscape as you briefly pass next to the country’s largest beet factory at Wissington. Both the Wissey and the Little Ouse feature strange water management feature.

The Head of Navigation on the Wissey is a charming flint built Suffolk town called Brandon. 5 miles north east of Brandon is Grime’s Graves, the only Neolithic flint mine open to visitors in Britain. Both worth visiting !

grimes graves

grimes graves map

In this blog I’ve only scratched the surface of the many interesting features and quirks of these rivers. In my printed 260 page guide “The Great Ouse and its Tributaries’ published by Imray. I describe, for example, both how the river Lark demonstrates all the different historical stages in pumping the Fens dry, and how the same river was used for mass, total immersion baptism, right up until the 1970s, only stopping after complaints that the recently ‘dunked’ were too smelly! And many, many other strange and little known facts. The guide is available from Fox’s. Chris Howes.

View this Fox Route 1 & points of interest on the Fox Narrowboats Interactive Google Map

If you are interested in exploring the Fenland Waterways, Fox have day hire narrowboats and holiday boats available.

Hey! Are you new here? Subscribe on the right to receive more secrets of the undiscovered Fenland waterways, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks)

Image credit: river wissey hilgay (top) – wiki martin pearman, grimes graves map – public domain (bottom), all inline photos – chris howes

Tags: , , , , ,

glass wine cambridge narrowboat holiday

wine and cheese onboard a fox narrowboat

When it comes to canal boating, is there anything more relaxing than sipping your favourite drink as you cruise the waterways? Whether you’re a fan of tea, coffee, real ale, or a glass of fine wine, here are seven tips for the best drinking experience aboard a narrowboat.

  1. Safety First: Choose a designated driver if you are planning a particularly boozy cruise. If you are the skipper make sure your alcohol free as well as your working crew whilst traveling; there are some great no alcohol versions available. Those helping with the locks should also keep their wits about them, as locks can be deeply dangerous!
  2. Local Flavours: One of the joys of travelling England by narrowboat is discovering local flavours along the way. So sample the local brews when visiting waterside pubs. Try these suggestions:

5 Places to Stop for a Drink When Cruising on the Cam

Our Top 3 Pubs for Your Fenland Narrowboat Holiday

Cambridgeshire Wine School’s Wine Tasting events are held in a beautiful Cambridge College and each day includes a demonstration of sabrage – opening a bottle of Champagne with a sabre! Alternatively, try visiting The Cambridge Gin Laboratory, with classroom, shop and tasting lounge, or The Ely Gin Company for local craft spirit gift sets.

  1. Picnic Perfect: Pack a picnic basket with your favourite snacks to complement your drink. Savour the moment by creating a perfect pairing with cheeses, crackers, and some fresh fruits while taking in the views. Stock up on groceries at a supermarket in March before you leave, or pre-book an afternoon tea or grazing box from Glam Grazing by Gem. If you want to plan a picnic without any traffic troubles or tantrums, follow these three simple steps to the perfect waterside picnic.How to Use Your Canal Boat Holiday to Plan the Perfect Picnic
  2. Sundown Delights: Sunsets on the water are breathtaking, and nowhere is that more true than in the Fenlands, with its wide open skies and flat landscapes. Get comfortable on deck, raise a glass, and toast to another beautiful day on the canals, as the sun dips below the horizon.
  3. Theme Nights: Spice up your evenings with themed drink nights. Whether it’s a cocktail party, wine tasting, or a local beer showcase, themed nights can add an extra layer of fun to your narrowboat adventure.
  4. Stay Hydrated: A holiday may not always be about the alcoholic drinks! During the day if the weather is warm, and the boating demands physical work, such as operating locks, then remember to stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day.
  5. Respect the Environment: Responsible boaters dispose of empty bottles and cans properly, keeping the waterways tidy for everyone to enjoy. Boater’s waste disposal points are marked in the guidebook supplied with the boat, or you can search for Boat Marina Services on our interactive map. See: Fascinating New Interactive Fens Waterways Map for Narrowboaters

Remember, the real pleasure of narrowboating lies in the slow-paced, peaceful journey. Enjoying a drink on your narrowboat can enhance the experience, but always do so responsibly, appreciating the beauty of the waterways and the serenity of your surroundings. Cheers to a relaxing and enjoyable narrowboat adventure!

Don’t miss more articles about what to see and do when narrowboating in the Fens: Sign up to follow this blog in the sidebar on the right.

Tags: , , ,

nene park children train ride

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.

For more ideas about 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 inbox. (We never share or sell email addresses, this is just to send you our latest blog posts.)

Image credit: ferry meadows shutterstock (top) 

Tags: , , , ,

fens waterways google map

If you have ever wondered…

Where’s the nearest pub?

Is there a shop near here?

And where can I moor?

Our new interactive waterways map has the answer. It shows where you are on the navigation and what useful things you might find nearby. So for example, if you are moored in March on the Old River Nene, by the park; the map will show you that you are near to a Sainsbury’s store, the museum, and the Oliver Cromwell restaurant. Icons make it really easy to see nearby shops, restaurants, pubs and places of interest. You can use the map on your smart phone, tablet or laptop, to find your next mooring and plan your route. (All of our boat have WiFi.) Or when you arrive you can just moor up and then check out what happens to be nearby.

waterways google map march

Business icons may have a link to more details. So for example, The Oliver Cromwell restaurant link takes you straight to the hotel website, where you can check the menu and book a table. Tapping the March Museum icon displays a photo of the museum, and a summary of what you can see there, plus a link to the website to find out the entry costs and more. (Spoiler alert: Admission is free!) March museum is in the heart of the town centre and offers a fascinating insight into our local social history through a number of displays and collections, with interactive elements.

iphone waterways map

iphone waterways map

Our hire boat marina is based in March, but you’ll soon want to head off exploring the waterways with your boat, and this is where the map comes into its own. You can easily zoom in and out of the map using your fingers on a hand-held device. The map is based on Google maps, so it has all the same functionality; such as viewing areas in map view, satellite view and street view. If you search for your intended destination, for example, “Outwell”, the map will display the general area, so you can look at your mooring options before you arrive. Food options in Outwell include Stotts Fish and Chip shop, or the Crown Lodge Hotel. A local place of interest on the map is St Clements Church. Clicking the icon brings up the address, a brief description and a photo of the church.

Navigation information such as turning points, locks and moorings are included; and boating services such as pump-out and water, rubbish, recycling, and elsan emptying. There are also navigation notes, such as warnings of underwater obstructions, staunches or fast flowing water.

search and filter map POI’s

You can filter the results displayed on the map, for example to show only historic sites, nature reserves, only railways stations or only locks. Select what you are looking for, and then zoom out to see all of our local waterways, and view how many options there are. Zooming out you can really see how much waterways there are to explore in the Fens. The River Nene will take you west to Wadenhoe, the Cam will take you south to Cambridge, and the Little Ouse River will take you east to Brandon, a pretty Suffolk market town. Explore the ‘Things to See’ filter to discover historically significant churches and unusual local attractions like Stretham Old Engine Museum.

You don’t have to wait until your narrowboat holiday to use this map though. Check it out now, and have a play around. You can plan your ideal route and think about the things you want to see and do on your next boat trip.

See the map now: Fox Narrowboats Fenland Waterways Map

For free walking and cycling maps check out: Exploring the Fens on Foot with Minimal Effort

Don’t miss more articles about what to see and do when narrowboating in the Fens: Sign up to follow this blog in the sidebar on the right.

Tags: , , , , , ,

steering on a family narrowboat holiday

steering a fox narrowboat

What should you bring?

Can the kids steer a canal boat?

How can your family prepare for the trip?

A Fox Narrowboat trip is more than a holiday; it’s an opportunity to create lifelong memories with your family. Embrace every moment of this unique experience and make the most of your time together with these four holiday tips.

1) Bring Your Own Entertainment

On a narrowboat holiday there will be plenty of time for the children to relax. So to keep them entertained, bring along a selection of games and activities and suggest that they bring a few favourite books on holiday. You could also bring games that include the whole family, such as Trivial Pursuit, or Scrabble. If you bring tablets and other handheld devices they can be recharged on board. Just load them with the games and movies that you know the children would enjoy. Then balance that screen-time with exploring the natural world, off the boat with the rest of the family.

A narrowboat holiday offers the opportunity to see wildlife and birds, which can be a chance to learn about different species and plants: Bring binoculars if you have them. The children may like to take photos or bring their sketchpads. Your family can explore footpaths, towpaths, trails, woodlands and meadows as part of your holiday.

2) Learn About Navigation

Although training in boat handling will be given when you arrive at our hire base, you may also like to familiarise yourself with some basic boating terminology and skills by reading our blog: Is it Difficult to Drive a Narrowboat? Older children can learn boating skills with you, and get involved with steering, operating locks and mooring up. The Canal and River Trust have a series of animated films designed to help boaters navigate the UK’s inland waterways safely. Developed jointly by CRT and the Environment Agency, the animations are designed to complement the Boater’s Handbook. Teach your children about lock safety and involve them in the process, allowing them to participate under supervision.

The children can also help you to plan your trip, both by using a guidebook, and using our interactive waterways map. The map will help you plan your navigation, and what useful things you might find nearby.

Read: Fascinating New Interactive Waterways Map for Narrowboaters

You can plan the places you would like to visit and calculate how long your journey will take you. You can filter the results displayed on the map, to show shops, places to eat, historic sites, nature reserves, navigational information and much more.

3) Be Prepared

The UK weather can be a bit unpredictable, so be prepared for all conditions. Pack clothing suitable for both warm and cold weather, as well as waterproofs in case of rain. Keep an eye on weather forecasts and plan your activities and stopping points accordingly.

We also advise booking your holiday hire boat well in advance if you can. Consider the size and layout of the boat to ensure it meets the needs of your family. All bed linen, towels, and kitchen utensils are provided. Our ‘Rural Fox’ narrowboat sleeps up to four people, and our other boats sleep up to six people.

4) Savour the Moment

A narrowboat holiday allows you to disconnect from the distractions of everyday life and spend quality time with your family. Enjoy each other’s company and create lasting memories. Take lots of pictures to capture these moments together, and encourage your children to take their own photos. You will explore charming towns and villages along the Fenland waterways, each with its own character and history. Stop off at quaint pubs, visit local markets, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Some popular boating destinations include Peterborough, Ely and Cambridge.

Start Planning Your Narrowboat Adventure Today!

Begin your journey of discovery and relaxation by planning a narrowboat holiday in Cambridgeshire. With its stunning waterways, charming towns, and endless opportunities for family fun, a narrowboat holiday is the perfect escape from the ordinary. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Fenland waterways, create lasting memories, and embark on an adventure that your family will cherish forever.

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

You may also like: The Top 5 Tips for a Family Narrowboat Break

For more essential tips about family 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 credit: Fox Narrowboats

Tags: , , , ,

cape fox narrowboat galley saloon
cape fox narrowboat interior kitchen living area

cape fox narrowboat galley saloon

Last summer the Met Office put an extreme heat warning in place, and so we published Five Cool Ideas for Narrowboating in a Heatwave. Some areas of the UK were even affected by drought, and so people were asked to limit what water they used. This wet July has been a different story, with the Met Office explaining that although a southern shift of the jet stream has caused high pressure and record high temperatures in Europe, low-pressure systems have caused this cooler weather here in Britain.

However, even in the pouring rain, most narrowboaters still know how to have a good time! The UK canal boating season is from spring until autumn, and British boaters know that they must expect the unexpected when it comes to the weather. So here are four ways to enjoy your narrowboat holiday, even if it rains.

On the Cut

If you’re planning a holiday in England you will need to pack clothes that suit both summer sunshine and rainy days – just in case. So be prepared to bring a light raincoat and a warm jumper. When the boat is underway, encourage a sense of team spirit and camaraderie among your crew by all pitching in with the locks, whatever the weather. If you have younger children, or vulnerable crew members on board, just make them aware that the deck and gunwales can get slippery in the rain. The steerer (dressed in waterproofs) can enjoy the rural views as you travel, and those below deck can supply the steerer with hot drinks and biscuits. If the steerer is you, be proud of your tenacity! Then, after you’ve moored up at your planned destination, enjoy a dry change of clothes and a sense of smug satisfaction.

On the Boat

However, you don’t have to be cruising for the whole holiday; travelling is only a part of it. If you get caught in the rain simply check your guidebook (supplied with the boat) for your nearest suitable mooring, and moor up for a while. Make snacks in the galley, and get comfortable using the TV and Wi-Fi. You could even turn on the central heating if necessary! Make yourself at home and perhaps persuade your group or family to play board games or card games until the rain eases off.

In a Book

Can you imagine curling up with a good book while the rain patters down on the narrowboat roof?

Steve Haywood has written several good travelogues about cruising the canals. ‘Narrowdog to Carcassonne’ by Terry Darlington is an autobiographical account of taking a narrowboat through France. For historical fiction about boating women, try ‘Water Gypsies’ by Annie Murray, or for real-life women’s experiences I recommend ‘Ramlin Rose’ by Sheila Stewart. Being far from digital distractions can be a welcome reprieve from modern life.

On the Bank

And finally, you will of course spend a good part of your holiday off the boat, exploring villages, towns, shops and tourist attractions. Take shelter in one of these Three Waterside Pubs to Visit on Holiday. Our blog is full of some great suggestions of places to go, from Ely Cathedral to the colleges of Cambridge University; museums, and art galleries can all be explored on a rainy day. Click ‘Blog’ (top right) and look for ‘Follow Blog’ in the right sidebar to receive more helpful holiday tips about the Fenland Waterways. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.)

Whatever the weather, the scenery here on the Fenland waterways in Cambridgeshire is second to none. Just take a look at where you could go exploring, by seeing our suggested Fox Boats routes.

Tags: , , , ,

children on narrowboat break

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life?

Need a break that will suit your whole family?

Want to enjoy quality time together and learn new skills?

A narrowboat holiday offers a unique and unforgettable experience for families, allowing you to travel at your own pace. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Fenland countryside, explore charming towns and villages, and create lasting memories. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect family holiday in Cambridgeshire.

Is a Narrowboat Holiday Right for Your Family?

Are you looking for a different kind of family adventure? Look no further than a Fox Narrowboats holiday. Picture yourself and your loved ones cruising along our unusual waterways, surrounded by breath-taking scenery and big skies. A Cambridgeshire narrowboat holiday offers a unique blend of relaxation, exploration, and quality time with your family. The flat, reclaimed land of the Fens has a very different vibe to the rest of the English canal network.

Narrowboats, (also known as canal boats,) provide a cosy and comfortable home away from home. Our traditional Fox boats are designed to navigate our local canals and rivers, offering a peaceful and slow-paced way to travel. With all the necessary amenities on board, including comfy beds, a kitchen, saloon and bathroom, you’ll have everything you need for an enjoyable holiday.

What Safety Tips Do Families Need to Know?

While children of all ages can enjoy a boating holiday, it’s important to assess their safety and ability to follow instructions. Younger children may require constant supervision to ensure their safety, and yet older children can actively participate in becoming valued members of the “crew” helping with steering, mooring and operating the locks. Just a few simple precautions will keep everyone safe. Life jackets supplied on board will provide peace of mind, especially if you have young children. Choose sensible, flat, comfortable shoes for everyone when the boat is underway, and save your fancy shoes for when you’re heading ashore for an evening meal! Prepare for the unpredictable UK weather by packing comfortable clothes, shorts, fleeces and waterproofs for everyone.

You may need to remind the children of the importance of staying away from the water’s edge while on board the narrowboat. Running on the towpath is to be avoided, and so teach everyone to keep a safe distance from the edge. Make sure children are supervised on board and explain how to stay safe during the journey. Be aware that locks have tall, slippery sides and fast-moving water: Children should never operate a lock without adult supervision.

Essential Planning

You can get the kids excited about the upcoming narrowboat holiday by involving them in the preparations and talking about the safety tips they will need to know. Explain the potential dangers, and that they may need to wear life jackets, depend on their age. It will be important to follow instructions and be mindful of their surroundings. Watching videos together can help to prepare your family before you go. Try YouTube for canal boat safety tips, and Robbie Cumming for boating inspiration.

Watch: Robbie Cumming Stars in Canal Boat Diaries

Younger children may enjoy the old ITV programme Rosie and Jim.

You may also like to plan your narrowboat holiday around family-friendly attractions and activities. Research destinations that offer playgrounds, nature reserves, and museums suitable for children. This will keep the children are entertained and engaged throughout the journey. There is also lots of inspiration for a family boating holiday on our blog.

Would boating suit your family? Check availability now for your next family adventure.

You may also like: The Top 5 Tips for a Family Narrowboat Break

For more essential tips about family 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.)

Tags: , , , , ,

fox narrowboat moored at denver sluice fens

With 70 years’ experience of running a hire boat business and marina, our family-run company, founded by renowned boat builder Charlie Fox, has a level of expertise that you can trust. But if you’ve never been on a narrowboat holiday before, you may have a few questions about getting afloat.

Where Can We Go?

We can offer you quieter holiday routes in the Cambridgeshire Fens and a choice of narrowboats, so you can select the perfect boat for you.  Our hire boat base is conveniently located in March, between Cambridge and Peterborough, and is a short travelling distance outside of London. Our marina is less than 100 miles from London, and is accessible by train from Kings Cross in about 90 minutes.

Read: The Narrowboat Holiday That Londoners Will Love

With so many waterways to choose from across the Fenlands the variety of routes is amazing. You will cruise through rivers, canals and open sections during your hire boat holiday.

Find the perfect route and plan your holiday here.

We can also offer you the choice of taking three or four night breaks as well as one week, ten day, two-week or even longer holidays.

Is it Difficult to Drive?

If you’re new to boating our RYA trained instructors will show you how to handle the boat and operate a lock. The boats are easy to control and surprisingly responsive; in fact it’s easier than learning to ride a bicycle! Are you wondering if it’s difficult to learn the ropes? Will you be nervous about turning the boat, or mooring? Remember, you’ll never be travelling faster than 4 mph and learning to steer a boat is fun for all the family. Even supervised children can steer, and they did so during the canal age, when whole families lived and worked on boats.

Read: What’s it Like to Actually Steer a Narrowboat?

What’s it Like on Board?

A narrowboat is the perfect way to enjoy being close to nature with all the modern conveniences of staying in a holiday cottage. Fox narrowboats all come equipped with radiator central heating, a microwave, hairdryer, WiFi, flatscreen TV with Freeview, full size oven, fridge, electric power points, and comfortable duvets and bed linen. It’s a cosy home from home, where you and your crew can comfortably relax after a day of boating, exploring, eating out, and sightseeing. Our competitive prices are fully inclusive of fuel, gas and VAT.

Find your perfect boat here.

Our boats are built right here at our marina and are unlike any others on “the cut”. But what exactly is so distinctive about a Charlie Fox Boat, and how many were built?

Read: Charlie Fox Narrowboats: Where are They Now?

A Fox Narrowboats holiday will introduce you to one of England’s best kept secrets, a network of waterways that meanders through some of the stunning Fenlands. You also cruise past pubs, cottages, windmills and wildlife. On these waterways you are the skipper; this is a holiday where you dictate the pace.

Freedom from Routine

Shopping and cooking are more like an adventure than a chore when you’re on a boating holiday, and every night you will be moored in a different place. Eat inside at a dinette table, or outside on the deck, enjoying the view. There are no “parking” charges – moorings are free!

Want to learn more about narrowboating? For surprising and unusual 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. (You will not receive any marketing emails, just two articles a month about boating info!)

 

Tags: , , ,