Canal boat hire – Bath by boat

Hire a canal boat on the Kennet and Avon Canal and cruise to Bath on a traditional narrowboat, a relaxing break ideal for novices. Select your favourite narrowboat from either Bradford on Avon, Hilperton or Bath and explore the historical city of Bath including the iconic architecture, Roman Bath Spa’s and shopping facilities.

An ideal short break to Bath City Centre on a boating holiday

Hire a canal boat from Bradford on Avon or Hilperton and cruise to Bath City Centre on a traditional narrowboat holiday.

Day 1:

Upon arriving at the marina in the afternoon, you will be greeted by the marina staff and once you’ve hopped on board you will receive full tuition.  Once you’ve been shown the ropes and are feeling confident to cruise independently you can get used to the steering for an hour or two before stopping at one of the many waterfront pubs for the afternoon.

Passing through the Cotswolds town of Bradford on Avon you weave over the River Avon on the Avoncliff Aqueduct, your first encounter of the River that follows your journey to Bath. As you journey away from the River, the canal starts to wind its way through woodland, leading you over the Dundas Aqueduct and Claverton village, which can be spotted on your guidebook as it appears hidden by the forest. Claverton Pumping Station is well worth a look if you are stopping off here.

Day 2:

Once you have explored the village at Claverton you continue your journey, approximately 6 miles from Bath City, passing Bathampton and Bathwick, there is a selection of waterfront pubs to moor outside for quick refreshment before arriving at Bath top lock. You can then choose to moor your canal boat at Bath top lock and walk into Bath city centre in about 25 minutes or continue through the deep locks and onto the River Avon to moor in the centre in one of the visitor moorings.

Having arrived at Bath City you can explore the sites for a couple of hours, relax in the hot springs, explore the stunning architecture and great shopping opportunities, before grabbing a quick refreshment and heading back to your hire boat.

Day 3:

On the last full day of your short break is the best time to start making your return journey. Allow a minimum of six hours cruising to return to the marina, the return journey will be spent mooring up outside that pub you spotted yesterday, and taking in what appears to be all new sights. You can enjoy your last supper aboard your cosy narrowboat or at a favourite pub near to the marina.

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