9 Best staycation locations in the English counties

Looking for inspiration on where to go on a staycation in the UK? You’re in the right place.

From historic cities to stunning countryside, discover the best staycations in England - all accessible by canal. Whether you're planning your first boat holiday or are a seasoned cruiser, this guide will help you pick the perfect county. 

Once you’ve found your ideal route, don’t miss our guide to planning your UK staycation, and our handy 'First Time Afloat' guide to make the most of your canal boat holiday. 

Why an English HOLIDAY is your perfect escape 

England offers incredible variety, from rural hideaways to iconic landmarks, all without the hassle of airports or international travel. A canal boat staycation adds something special: slow travel, stargazing from your deck, peaceful waterside mornings, and access to places you wouldn’t reach by car. 

Plus, you’ll be supporting local businesses, reducing your carbon footprint, and discovering hidden gems, all from the comfort of your floating home. 

Where to go on a staycation in the UK? 

Here are 9 of the best English counties to explore by canal boat - each with unique routes, marinas, and attractions. 

Berkshire 

Marinas: Aldermaston Wharf 

Routes: The Grand Ring, Bath & Return, Limehouse & Return, Oxford & Return, Pewsey & Return, Windsor & Return 

In the heart of the Royal County, the Kennet and Avon Canal flows through peaceful countryside and historic landmarks. Launch from Aldermaston Wharf for a trip that can be as relaxed or adventurous as you like. 

Visit Windsor Castle, wander the colleges of Oxford, or detour to Bletchley Park. Family trip? Add Legoland to your route. Longer holidays like The Grand Ring offer a full two-week loop, perfect for experienced boaters. 

Cambridgeshire 

Marinas: March 

Routes: Cambridge & Return, Huntingdon & Return 

Cruise the Fenland waterways from March Marina, with options to explore famous university cities or charming market towns. Take the Cambridge & Return route for historic colleges, punting scenes, and beautiful riverside views, or head toward Huntingdon - the birthplace of Oliver Cromwell - for a mix of history and heritage. 

Cheshire 

Marinas: Anderton Marina, Nantwich Canal Centre 

Routes: Chester or Ellesmere Return, Cheshire Ring, Four Counties Ring, Pennine Ring – Brewood & Return, Four Counties Ring, Llangollen & Return, Lymm & Return 

Cheshire is a top pick for waterway wonders and rural charm. Marvel at the famous Anderton Boat Lift, cross the UNESCO-listed Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, and explore the Roman walls of Chester. Visit quirky sites like the Hack Green Nuclear Bunker and sample the county’s namesake cheese - the oldest in England. 

Northamptonshire 

Marinas: Gayton Marina 

Routes: Aylesbury & Return, Banbury & Return, Coventry or Snarestone & Return, Leicester or East Midlands & Return, Market Harborough & Return, Oxford & Return, The Grand Ring, Warwickshire Ring, Warwick & Return 

Northamptonshire is perfectly placed for exploring central England, surrounded by eight neighbouring counties. With nine longer cruising routes from Gayton Marina, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned boaters. Enjoy canal villages, riverside pubs, and attractions like the Silverstone Interactive Museum or Althorp Estate. 

Shropshire 

Marinas: Blackwater Meadow Marina, Whitchurch Marina 

Routes: Chester or Ellesmere Port & Return, Llangollen & Return, Cheshire Ring, Four Counties Ring – Audlem & Return, Caldon Canal, Chester & Return, Four Counties Ring, Llangollen & Return, Cheshire Ring 

If you’re looking for a staycation filled with history and natural beauty, Shropshire is for you. Cruise the iconic Llangollen Canal, visit Ironbridge Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and wander the medieval market town of Ludlow.  Ideal for nature-lovers and history buffs alike. 

Staffordshire 

Marinas: Gailey Marina, Kings Orchard Marina 

Routes: Caldon Canal & Return, Chester or Ellesmere Port & Return, Nantwich & Return, Stourport & Return, Black Country Ring, Four Counties Ring, Stourport Ring – Coventry & Return, Market Drayton & Return, Birmingham Ring, East Midlands Ring, Four Counties & Black Country Ring, Warwick & Return 

Right in the heart of England, Staffordshire has it all - from canal-side countryside to vibrant cityscapes. Cruise through the industrial history of the Black Country and Birmingham canals, with filming locations from Peaky Blinders, or enjoy theme parks like Alton Towers and Drayton Manor along the way. 

Warwickshire 

Marinas: Springwood Haven Marina 

Routes: Banbury & Return, Birmingham & Return, Market Harborough & Return, Shardlow & Return, Stoke Bruerne & Return, East Midlands & Leicester Ring, Warwickshire Ring, Tixall Wide & Return 

Warwickshire feels like a storybook come to life. Explore Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon, walk in the footsteps of royalty at Warwick Castle, or visit Kenilworth Castle's romantic ruins. The Stairway to Heaven lock flight and Hawkesbury Junction’s canalside pub add extra charm to your journey. 

Wiltshire 

Marinas: Hilperton Marina 

Routes: Bristol & Return, Hungerford & Return, Newbury & Return, Reading & Return 

Wiltshire’s landscape is filled with timeless beauty and historical significance. Cruise past white horses carved into hillsides, visit prehistoric sites like Stonehenge and Avebury, and admire Georgian Bath’s elegant architecture. Stop off at Longleat Safari Park or Wilton House for even more adventure. 

Worcestershire 

Marinas: Alvechruch Marina, Worcester Marina  

Routes: Droitwich Canal, Stourport Ring, Stratford-upon-Avon & Return, Avon Ring, Black Country Ring, Warwickshire Ring – Birmingham & Return, Gloucester & Return, Sharpness & Return, Stourport Ring, Stratford & Return, Stratford-upon-Avon & Return, Avon Ring 

Worcestershire offers a flexible mix of city sights and rural escapes. Follow the Worcester and Birmingham Canal to explore cathedral cities and countryside moorings. Beyond the waterways, take in panoramic views from the Malvern Hills or discover hidden gems in historic market towns. 

What are the best staycations in England? 

Whether you're looking for literary landmarks, rolling countryside, or hands-on heritage, these nine counties are some of the best places in the UK for a staycation, especially by boat. A canal holiday lets you slow down, see more, and travel in comfort, with ABC Boat Hire making it all easy to plan. 

Your perfect English escape starts here. From countryside calm to cultural gems, explore England’s best staycation spots by canal. Fill out the form or speak to our friendly team on 0808 291 5269.