Blog

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...

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...

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...

Looking for a budget holiday away? Whether it’s taking a trip with the whole family, a romantic retreat for two or a group holiday with friends, it’s helpful to know the best tips and tricks to ensure you’re not forking out. That’s why canal boating on a budget is the perfect way to create a unique holiday for all to enjoy while keeping costs low. Find out more about how budget canal boat holiday...

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...

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...

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...

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...