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 today.

What are the best scenic canal routes in the UK?

1. Monmouthshire & Brecon Canal from Goytre Wharf

Looking for a boating escape? Discover this hidden gem in the Brecon Beacons – Monmouthshire and Brecon canal. Surrounded by extraordinary beauty from the Brecon Beacons National Park, admire the Black Mountains as a spectacular backdrop while discovering water trails – all in the company of mountains, sheep and open spaces, with the taste of fresh air.

This beautiful canal route has colours that change with the season under an intimate tree-lined route. For captivating countryside paired with wonderous wildlife to explore, this route is the perfect choice for a lover of grand scenery and nature.

2. Kennet & Avon Canal from Hilperton Marina

Often considered one of the best for natural beauty and wildlife, the Kennet and Avon canal is a great place to start. This canal provides a series of routes which are perfect when you’re searching for scenic canal routes to explore on your next trip away.

Whether it’s travelling through the leafy landscape of Devizes, or exploring the ancient forest, Celtic mounds and mysterious crop circles of the Reading route, the Kennet and Avon canal offers something for everyone. All the routes from this canal offer a combination of character and countryside – providing the perfect blend for a holiday on the water.

3. Chester return from Gailey Wharf

Starting out in the Midlands, Gailey Wharf can lead you up to the beautiful countryside route in Chester, or you have the option to stay local exploring areas of the West Midlands, Staffordshire and Shropshire.

On the Chester return route, enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Cheshire Plains – perfect for taking long walks or even hiring bikes, this relatively flat lowland spans throughout Chester. Take in the views from your canal boat on your trip away, or moor up and get exploring for yourself!

4. Llangollen Canal from Whitchurch Marina

With wildlife and plant life teeming from the corners of the canal, to Britain’s third-largest lowland raised bog, (which is apparently large enough to be seen from space!), there’s plenty to see on this narrowboat route from Whitchurch Marina.

Upon entering Wales, you’re met with the distinct Welsh countryside scattered with mountains and nature that stretches as far as the eye can see. If you have enough time while you’re there, why not visit Horseshoe Falls? A weir on the River Dee which is the perfect place to take the family, admire the beauty of the falls or enjoy a mile and a half walk around the area exploring local landmarks and finding out about the surrounding wildlife.

5. Forth & Clyde Canal from Falkirk

Explore the beauty of the Forth and Clyde canal routes from Falkirk on your next narrowboat holiday. The Forth and Clyde canal is much wider than your average English canal – and holds host to beautiful Scottish scenery waiting to be explored. One of the most significant monuments to ensure you visit is the Falkirk Wheel – a huge structural wonder, this attraction connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.

And if you want to venture onto a specific route from Falkirk that really captures the Scottish scenery, the Glasgow and return route showcases the majestic Campsie Fells. This Scottish countryside area spans east to west from Denny Muir to Dumgoyne.

Now you’ve discovered our best canals in the UK to explore scenic views, it’s time to get going. Find out everything you need to know about boating from our ultimate canal boat guide. Alternatively, get in touch with a member of our helpful team for more information and advice on your next holiday on the water.