UK Canal Boat Vacations from USA

If you’re planning your next vacation to Europe and want a truly authentic experience? Why not charter a canal boat vacation with ABC Boat Hire and experience the best the UK has to offer?    

Why choose a canal boat vacation?

Booking a canal boat vacation is the perfect way to experience the great British countryside in a truly unique way. Don’t just take our word for it – read our gold trusted feefo reviews. 

Fairytale scenery

The UK’s canal network, rivers and waterways offer picturesque landscapes. Cruise through charming chocolate box villages, and historic city centers as well as our incredible wildlife.  

Rest and relaxation

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life? Well, chartering a canal boat allows you to experience the UK at a slower pace. Enjoy the calm waters of the UK’s water network.   

Experience the UK’s rich history

The UK is jam packed with historical sights. From stately homes, castles as well as industrial history and museums, many of our routes played a significant role in the country’s cultural and industrial development. Learn more about the history of the canal boat families and recreate history on your canal boat vacation.  

Local culture and cuisine

 Immerse yourself in the local culture on your canal boat vacations. Try Fish and Chips on the river, grab a Sunday Roast or a pint of real ale in an authentic pub.  

What is there to see and do?

There’s a wealth of activities, historical sites and picturesque landscapes on the waterways, including the 7 wonders of the waterway. Some of our top picks include: 

• Edinburgh: Edinburgh castle, the Royal Mile and the Palace of Holyrood House are all unmissable sights to visit in Edinburgh. The magical city that inspired JK Rowling to write Harry Potter. 

Edinburgh Routes: Edinburgh and Glasgow return from Falkirk.      

• Bath: Cruise down the Kennet and Avon Canal to the historic city of Bath, home of Jane Austen. Don’t miss the Royal Crescent and the Roman Baths.  

Bath Routes: Bath and Return from Aldermaston Wharf, Bristol and return from Hilperton Marina.  

• Stratford Upon Avon: The Tudor town where William Shakespeare was born and lived has a wealth of history and culture to offer. Including the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. 

Stratford Routes: Stratford and Return from Alvechurch Marina, Stratford and Return from Worcester Marina.   

• Pontcysyllte Aqueduct: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pontcysllte Aqueduct is the highest and longest aqueduct in Britain and is one of the 7 wonders of the waterway.  

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Routes: Llangollen and return from Wrenbury Mill. 

Getting here

A number of US airports fly directly to the UK, meaning getting here can be relatively simple. The UK’s rail network is also well-connected, making it easy to travel from the airport to your chosen marina.  

Most direct flights from major US airports such as JFK, LAX and Boston arrive at London Gatwick, London Heathrow or Edinburgh. For routes in England and Wales you should choose to fly into London, and for Scotland – Edinburgh. Then arrange onward travel via rail and local transport links to your chosen marina. 

Another option is to travel from your closest airport to a large European transport hub such as Amsterdam Schiphol, Brussels or Frankfurt and from there take a short haul flight to the closest airport to your marina such as Birmingham, Bristol or Manchester. 

Planning your journey

We’ve listed all of our marinas below along with the closest airport and train station to help you plan your journey.   

Need more help?

There are a number of tools that can help you plan your journey, for flights, check Skyscanner and Google Flights and for rail times and journey planning use the trainline app. For more inspiration on where to go on your canal boat vacation see our featured routes, or to find out more contact our helpful team today.