Page 13 - Flipbook

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Go WItH tHE FLoW: 1. Narrow boats long and short in Shropshire. 2. The adventure begins, leaving worcester. 3. You will have the chance to meet plenty of like minded travellers at popular destinations. 4. You can be a social butterfly or embrace the solitude on more isolated routes. 5. Knaresborough Bridge. The U.K.’s canal systems offer a unique view on many of the regions most historic attractions.
Leicester
In the old days, a steam engine would be used to winch boats up the famous hill to the village of Foxton. Nowadays, there’s a famous flight of locks to navigate up and down. Be sure to detour via the gorgeous old town of Market Harborough for a cream tea or refreshing pint.
Derbyshire
Derbyshire is one of the prettiest counties in England and a lazy waterways holiday is the perfect way to explore the quaint villages that dot the countryside. The Peak District is famed for its rolling hills, market towns, meadows and atmospheric
woodland. En route, make a point of stopping at one of the many farmers’ markets that take place around the towns of Glossop, Chesterfield and Knutsford.
Shropshire
Shropshire to the west is a glorious county. The Union Canal here travels through the stunning grounds of Shugborough Hall and past the lovely village of Brewood. This stretch of waterway is marked by its deep wooded cuttings, and there’s also adventure to be found in the almost three-kilometre- long Harecastle Tunnel, which is reputedly haunted.
From Blackwater meadow there’s a beautiful 32-km stretch of waterway that’s lock-free and which takes in the dramatic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.
Birmingham&Shaakkeessppeeaarerecocuonutnrtyry Birmingham was a booming city during
the Industrial Age, and it’s still a bustling metropolis with art galleries, great shopping centres and several world-class museums. The Grand Union Canal leads through the city and there are several routes to explore
- either north into rural Worcestershire or into Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace and site of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s theatre EV
STAY
RCi affiliated resorts in England, East midland include:
Canaltime at Sawley marina, nottingham 6073
Cruise along England’s scenic Nottingham waterways in your own canal boat journeying on the trent and Mersey canals, and wandering through the stunning derbyshire countryside.
Member review: “we thought that Sawley Marina was exactly what we wanted for our break. the staff were absolutely fantastic and helped to make our holiday so enjoyable.”
Canaltime at union Wharf, Leicestershire 5535
Canaltime at union wharf is based on the Market Harborough arm of the Grand union Canal.
Member review: “this was our second narrow boat trip and we enjoyed it very much. the boat was comfortable and well- equipped, and chugging along through the beautiful English countryside is about the most relaxing and pleasant vacation imaginable. the small city of Market Harborough (where the wharf is located) is charming, too.”
RCi affiliated resorts in England, West midland include:
Canalboat At Worcester marina, Worcester A849
Based in the southern end of worcester, Birmingham Canal is the ideal base for all routes into Shakespeare country via the river Severn and avon, or trips north into rural worcestershire.
Member review: “we purchased a map type booklet called Canal Companion Stourport ring. we found it very useful, it added information about the area that enhanced the trip. outstanding experience. one of our very best.”
Canalboat Club at Blackwater meadow, Shropshire 6985
the marina is situated within walking distance of Ellesmere, a picturesque market town. Some of the attractions include a weekly market held at the Market Hall, several traditional pubs and restaurants and a good choice of shops and local amenities.
Member review: “Memorable Holiday, great experience on our first canal boat. Scenery, bridges, especially the tunnels and aqueducts were remarkable.”
ENDLESS VACATION 13