Our Canal Routes

ABC Boat Hire unlocks a whole new perspective on places you know well. See the countryside from the water, whilst stopping at enchanting villages and pubs along the way.

Choose your perfect canal route

ABC Boat Hire has a variety of routes to offer, from short breaks to family-friendly ones. Escape the everyday and unwind on the water with a route perfect for you.

Envision your ideal cruise based on duration, atmosphere, pace, and companions. Choose a convenient starting point near an airport, train station, or home, using our interactive map to assist. Tailor your route to your crew's preferences, considering whether they enjoy lock-cruising or prefer a more relaxed journey.

Our Popular Routes

Browse our selection of routes and start planning your narrowboat holiday, whether you are going solo, with family, or friends, we have a route for every taste, experience and expectation.

Most Popular Routes

Take a relaxing trip around the canals of England, Scotland and Wales with ABC Boat Hire. From scenic stretches perfect for relaxation to journeys packed with historical sites, find the ideal waterway for your canal boat escape.

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Featured Routes

The canals and rivers of England, Scotland and Wales stretch for over 2000 miles through some of the finest countryside imaginable. At ABC Boat Hire we have 16 start locations throughout the waterway network, from Falkirk in Scotland to Hilperton in Wiltshire, offering the widest choice of self-drive boat hire and narrowboat holidays.

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Short Breaks

We have short break boats available from all start bases, each with a number of splendid routes to choose from. Take a two or three night weekend break starting on Friday, or a four night midweek break starting on Monday for the same price.

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Budget Friendly Routes

Explore the Canals on Your Terms: Enjoy a relaxing escape that fits your budget. Choose from our selection of affordable routes and create a memorable canal adventure.

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Wildlife Hotspot Routes

Explore a world of wildlife on these hotspot routes. Cruise through picturesque landscapes and keep your eyes peeled for everything, from beautiful birds of prey to playful little water voles.

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Dog-Friendly Routes

No one likes the idea of leaving their furry friends behind, which is why we have some great dog-friendly canal routes your four-legged friend will love. Explore dog-welcoming pubs, scenic walks, and even some designated doggy paddle spots along some of our dog-friendly routes.

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Boating Routes For Older Couples

Looking for a relaxing escape on the canals? Our specially curated routes are ideal for those couples seeking a more relaxed and scenic cruise. With fewer locks to navigate and breathtaking landscapes to enjoy, you can unwind and reconnect on the water at a leisurely pace.

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Family Friendly Routes

Create lasting memories on our exciting family-friendly routes. These adventures offer stunning scenery, gentle challenges, and plenty of opportunities for family fun along the way.

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