Canal wildlife hotspots

Canal wildlife 

With plenty of holiday destinations around the UK, as is the stunning wildlife on offer right on your doorstep. For the nature lovers, the explorers or simply just the curious – we have narrowed down the top canal locations to spot majestic wildlife on your next waterway adventure.  

What wildlife is there to see? 

There is an array of wildlife to see when cruising the waterways. Depending on the route, you should be able to spot otters, bats, grass snakes and even canal birds such as Kingfishers or barn owls. Take a look here, to find out more about the wildlife you can expect to see on your canal boat holiday.  

Canal wildlife hotspots 

The Four Counties Ring from Blackwater Meadow Marina 

This scenic route takes you along the rural Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal to Great Haywood Junction, where you are sure to spot an otter or two. This is a great route for families, as it offers endless countryside with plenty of other wildlife to see – such as dragon flies, peregrines, and water birds. You can also find a roving bridge, infamous potteries and the Peak District.  

Snarestone & Return from Springwood Haven 

This route offers wildlife, rich history and peaceful lock-free cruising. As you pass by the beautiful countryside, look out for the glorious and majestic Kingfisher on the Ashby canal – known to have been spotted on this waterway trail. This route also passes through a landscape of open farmland, so there are other animals to see as you bask in all the nature that’s on offer.  

Great Haywood & Return from Gailey Marina 

Picturesque landscape, idyllic countryside, red-brick bridges and wildlife is what you can expect from this short three-night cruise. If you’re lucky enough to be gliding along at the right time, you’ll be able to spot bats, as well as terrapins and water birds flying across the water. Along this route you’ll approach a Tixall Wide – home to a meadow that is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. Here, you’ll find a variety of nesting birds that really are to be admired.  

Wiltshire Boating Holidays 

Our Wiltshire boating holidays set off from our southerly base, Hilperton Marina – located on the Kennet and Avon Canal. This canal is renowned for its discovery of wildlife and natural beauty in England. If you look closely, you may be able to spot a water vole, now considered one of UK’s most endangered species - nestling around a burrow.  

For more information on the routes we offer, or to book your next canal boat holiday – simply browse our brochure or contact a member of our helpful team today!