WHERE TO CRUISE
THE UK'S BEST SELF DRIVE CANAL HOLIDAYS AND DAYS OUT ABOARD SUPERB NARROWBOATS
Narrowboat Day Boats at Lower Heyford
FROM LOWER HEYFORD
NORTH: THE HEYFORDS and SOMERTON DEEP LOCK
(OXFORDSHIRE)
Discover pretty Cotswold villages, superb water meadows and experience one of the deepest locks in the area! You'll circumnavigate Lower Heyford before reaching the first lift bridge (most are left open for you to pass unhindered but this one you'll need to operate).
Shortly after you'll see the magnificent tithe barn and manorial farm at Upper Heyford. Your progress is peaceful as you work through 3 locks, Allens Lock, close to sleepy Upper Heyford rising up the hill from the lock. Rolling pastures accompany your route to Heyford Common Lock and Somerton Meadows, a superb area at which to tie up and laze the day away. Turn above Somerton Deep Lock for your return journey (please turn before stoping at Somerton Meadows).
Total cruising time 6 to 7 hours.
Family days on the canal, day hire from Heyford
FROM LOWER HEYFORD
SOUTH: KIRTLINGTON QUARRY
(OXFORDSHIRE)
Gently glide through rolling countryside as you follow the pretty Cherwell Valley; the canal winding its way through copses and pastures. The first lock, Dashwood Lock, is characterised by a Cotswold stone bridge. Only a mile further and you will reach the sylvan Northbrook Lock, close to a tiny farming hamlet and historic drover’s bridge over the adjacent River Cherwell. For those with sharp eyes keep a look out for Kingfishers as they are a common sight along this stretch. Another mile brings you to the fascinating old Kirtlington Quarry (now a country park) - well worth visiting for its open space, history and fossils. This makes an ideal day with plenty of time for a picnic or barbecue at lunchtime... or a stroll to Kirtlington and the Oxford Arms for a swift pint!
Total cruising time 5hrs.
Day hire from Bradford on Avon
FROM BRADFORD ON AVON
WEST: THE AVON VALLEY TO DUNDAS AQUADUCT
(WILTSHIRE)
We will help you through your first and only lock at the the wharf and then you can start your journey through the beautiful tree lined Avon Valley. You will pass the ancient Tithe Barn and the cruise alongside Barton Country Park as far as the secluded hamlet of Avoncliff, which is also where you cross the first of two magnificent aqueducts across the River Avon. At Avoncliff look out for the pair of old watermills, and the quaint railway halt which is still working! There is also a pub here should you wish to have lunch ashore. Cruising along the other side of the valley you'll reach the second aqueduct at Dundas and the entrance to Somerset Coal Canal with the Visitor Centre and Cafe. Do spend time at each aqueduct; walk around and under them.
Total cruising time 5 hours.
For the more adventurous and a continuos cruise, you can reach Claverton with its popular Weir Pool and the Old Pumping Station.
Total cruising time for this extended journey 7hrs.
If you need help with the lock back at the wharf just ask!
Days out on the canal from Bradford on Avon
FROM BRADFORD ON AVON
EAST: SEMINGTON DOCKYARD
(WILTSHIRE)
Cruise through open countryside to the bottom of the locks at Semmington dockyard. Passing through Widbrook woods and Semmington swingbridge before turning at the site of the former Wilts and Berks canal junction.
Travelling east is the perfect excuse for a traditional british picnic, on your return journey why not stop at Widbrook Woods, also a great place for the children and dogs to let off steam.
Total cruising time 4 -5 hours