Blog

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it’s time to get your romantic thinking-cap on and start planning a surprise getaway for your loved one. But where to take them? Perhaps you’ve exhausted the “nice meal and a bunch of flowers” in previous years – for something a little different, read our detailed guide on the five most fun things to do for Valentine’s Day this year. Valentine’s Day tr...

Struggling for half term ideas? Whether it’s February, May or October half term, taking some time out from the monotony of daily life is essential. Let the kids wind down from their studies and book off some annual leave for family time, or time with a loved one. So, what are some of the best ideas for half term breaks? What to do in half term Looking for half term short break ideas, or perhaps...

Looking for birthday break ideas? Whether you’re planning for yourself or surprising the other half, our ultimate guide on the best birthday getaways for any age has you covered! So, if you’re looking for birthday break ideas, from celebrating your birthday on a canal boat holiday to celebrating in adventurous style with an activity holiday, we can help. Birthday trip ideas Instead of simply goi...

Looking to book a canal boat holiday? Whether you already reside in Leicestershire or you’re travelling from different parts of the UK, a Leicestershire holiday from ABC Boat Hire is the perfect way to relax and unwind on the waters. From exploring bustling city centres to rural quaint countryside towns, find out the best places to visit from Union Wharf now. Holidays from Union Wharf When you b...

Looking to get away on a midweek city break? Visiting canal cities is top of many boaters’ bucket lists when it comes to exploring – especially through Europe. But what are the best canal cities to visit? Whether you’re visiting by narrowboat with ABC Boat Hire’s help or you’re flying overseas, find our list of the best canal cities in Europe to explore this year. Best canal cities 1. Venice Wo...

Whether it’s taking to the waters on a romantic canal boat holiday with your loved one; relaxing in a luxury spa; or exploring London’s world-renowned West End theatres, find the perfect ideas for midweek breaks for couples from our handy guide. Short midweek romantic breaks 1. Romantic spa breaks Fancy a midweek romantic break with your partner? The perfect option to relax and unwind, take to...

Whether it’s one of the half terms, the never-ending summer holidays or the Christmas festivities are upon us, ensuring the kids are entertained is essential. And what better way to keep their attention than with a midweek getaway for the whole family to enjoy? From canal boat adventures to camping under the stars, find our top five short midweek breaks. 5 best midweek family breaks 1. Theme par...

Are you looking for your next canal boat holiday? Perhaps you already have one planned, and want to make sure you know how to drive a narrowboat beforehand? Our helpful guide will give you advice on steering a narrowboat as well as top safety tips to remember when you’re out on the waters. How to steer a narrowboat The prospect of steering a narrowboat is relatively simple – however, there are a...

Back on our screens for the fifth season, Peaky Blinders is a national sensation and iconic series which has captured not only the hearts of the Brummies, but the entire country. This hit television show is also now recognised internationally in some countries, putting Birmingham and the Black Country right on the map. So, when visiting Birmingham, where are the best places to see Peaky Blinders...

Ever questioned what the 7 wonders of the Waterway are? On your next canal boat holiday, you can experience them all from our marinas with help from ABC Boat Hire. Whether you want to explore ‘The Cathedral of Canals’, discover the most impressive set of canal locks in the country or witness the longest, highest and deepest tunnel in the canal system, it’s all there waiting for you. Find out more...