A guide to London Canals

London’s canals date back to the early 19^th century to bring goods into the city from other locations  like Birmingham and Manchester. The first waterways in London connected the River Lea, River Thames and connects to the Grand Union Canal. This canal network was the backbone of the industrial revolution. Nowadays, London’s canals offer an opportunity to explore the city at a more leisurely pace. Additionally, much of London’s canal side areas have been redeveloped in recent years and provide a fantastic opportunity to visit some of the quirky café’s, pubs and to take in the culture.

Top places to visit in London Via Canal

London’s canals offer a way to experience a mix of both historic and modern London. With over 2,000 miles of canals and rivers across London, there’s plenty to do for everyone, whether you’re enjoying the canals with family, friends or as a couple.

Visiting Limehouse

Situated in London’s East end, Limehouse used to be a historic docking area and the gateway to the rest of London’s rivers and canals. Now a modern marina, at Limehouse you’ll be able to spot luxury yachts amongst the narrowboats. From this location, you’ll also be able to see breath-taking views of London.

Limehouse Cut was the very first canal in London, built to bypass the busy traffic of the River Lea and River Thames. Today, the Limehouse cut is much more tranquil, surrounded by parkland, with much of the original architecture remaining including Georgian and Victorian buildings, locks and bridges.

Narrow Street, despite its name, isn’t a particularly narrow street. It is, however, a charming, cobbled road filled with historic buildings, pubs and restaurants. Including Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, Narrow Street runs parallel to the banks of the River Thames, providing brilliant views of Tower Bridge.

Visiting Camden Lock

Camden is one of London’s coolest districts, filled with independent shops and markets, tasty food and traditional boozers. If you visit just one market in London, Camden Market is one of the most eclectic.

Camden Lock was built in the early 1800s and has been an important cultural hub for over 200 years. The Lock is an important symbol of Camden and its rich cultural heritage.

The home of alternative culture, Camden Market was first established in the 1970s as a street market specialising in alternative fashion. The market has grown over the last 40 years, covering over 50 acres, with a broad offering including vintage clothing, street food, records, art and handmade jewellery.

Camden has a vibrant music scene, with a number of live music venues, the most famous of which is the Roundhouse, a former railway engine shed that has seen the likes of Fleetwood Mac, David Bowie and Bob Dylan perform.

Visiting London Zoo

Not far from Camden Lock, along the Regent’s Canal is London Zoo. One of the oldest Zoological gardens in the world. London Zoo opened in 1828 and is still running nearly 200 years later. The Zoo is home to a range of animals from lions and monkeys to butterflies and meerkats, and is a brilliant day out for both adults and children alike.

Limehouse and return from Aldermaston Wharf

The Limehouse and return from Aldermaston Wharf gives you the opportunity to explore London at a slower pace. The route travels sets out from Aldermaston Wharf in Berkshire, and heads along the river Thames to Windsor before joining the Grand Union Canal, taking you into the heart of London via Little Venice, London Zoo and Camden Market.

If you’re ready to explore the UK by canal, browse our selection of featured routes today. Or If you’re ready, book your holiday to Limehouse and Return and today.