Blog

Header photo credit: Canal & River Trust

7 wonders of the waterway

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...

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Best teenage friendly holidays

If you’re wondering where to take teenagers on holiday, read on to find out the best ideas for teenage family holidays, and where’s going to captivate their attention while still being able to spend time as a family. Ideas for holidays with teenagers Sometimes choosing the best family holiday destination for teenagers can be challenging. It could be that their interests have changed and old fami...

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Top UK canal boat locations to visit

best canals in uk

Looking for the best location for your next canal boat holiday? Whether you want to embark on the waters to visit the scenic wonderland of the Welsh countryside, enjoy a family day out at Cadbury World with the kids, or experience culture in the heart of Edinburgh, our guide on the best locations to visit while on your narrowboat holiday has you covered. From the best canals in the UK to things to...

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Celebrity 5 go barging

celebrity 5 go barging

And they’re back! Returning to Channel 5, we can now enjoy a weekly watch of five national treasures (as referred to by Channel 5). Celebrity 5 Go Barging shows these celebrities navigating their way around a canal boat every Friday evening at 9pm. Season 2 kicked off on our screens on Friday 19th July – and the journey continues each week with more insight into the celebrities’ experiences of na...

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7 Best canal routes for pubs

You can’t beat enjoying a tipple or some famous pub grub by the waterside on a summer’s day. So, where are the best canalside pubs? Whether it’s exploring an array of cider flavours in Stratford upon Avon or simply a pit-stop on a long-distance walking route, discover the best pubs with a canalside location today. Best pubs by the canal Looking for pubs near canals? Find our top 7 best pubs by t...

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7 Group weekend away ideas UK

Whether it’s taking to the mountains on active walking holidays; relaxing in luxury on a weekend spa break with a loved one; or getting the whole family together for a long weekend break on the canals – we have you covered. Find out 7 of the best group weekend away ideas in the UK for you to embark on with friends, family, or both! Fun weekends away for adults and families 1. Canal boat weeken...

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5 best scenic canal routes UK

Whether you’re a serial boater or a canal boat holiday beginner looking for something new, finding out the most scenic canal routes to explore is a great way to ensure your trip will be perfect. From discovering the majestic sights of the Campsie Fells in Scotland to the picturesque Welsh countryside located near Llangollen, learn more about which scenic routes to explore on your narrowboat trip t...

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Best canal routes for kids

Looking for the best canals for kids to explore on your next boating holiday? Whether it’s discovering the aquatic wonderland of Birmingham’s Sea Life Centre, immersing yourself in the history of Chester Castle or zorbing your way around the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland, ABC Boat Hire offer a wide selection of canal routes that children will love. Top canal boat holidays for children and families E...

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The ultimate canal boat guide

Perhaps you’re considering trying something a little different for your next trip away with the family? Whether you’re a first-time boater or you’re simply interested in learning more about boating holidays, discover our helpful boaters guide – here to provide you with advice, recommendations and information about narrowboat holidays. Canal guide Preparing for your canal boat holiday is an excit...

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5 irresistible reasons to choose a canal boat holiday

Wondering where to go on holiday with the kids? The best family holidays can often take place closer to home. With a canal boat holiday, you can experience the beautiful English countryside; glide across the canal waters in your second home and spend quality time together either as a family, a couple or a group of friends. Learn why a canal boat holiday is the perfect choice for your next trip awa...

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