If you’re considering a holiday on the English canal system it may be worth having a day out at the Waterways Festival on 29th, 30th and 31st of July 2011. This colourful and very entertaining event for all the family takes place at Shrobnall Fields, Burton on Trent, East Staffordshire.
Waterway festivals are a good way to get the feel of, and speak to, people who, not only holiday on the waterways, but live and work on them. You can view narrowboats and other watercraft, get advice on handling, what routes to take, which hire company, etc. – all very useful when considering this type of holiday, especially if you are new to boating.
For over 20 years our family has enjoyed canal holidays and in my opinion it is simply the best way to see our countryside. When I was introduced to narrowboat holidays by my in-laws, it reminded me of a giant log flume you find at theme parks, which have displays of various aspects of life in the UK.
Drifting through open farmland, small quaint villages, woodland, long tunnels, lochs, remote countryside and city centres. Past lots of real ale public houses and eating places. Over impressive aqueducts and under huge railway bridges… the canals have it all. Well, they would, they have been with us for over 200 years. That fact alone makes this type of holiday fascinating and relaxing, and an adventure for all the family, including the dog.
People come from all over the globe to holiday on our waterways, some every year. Modern boats are not cold and draughty like many people think. Central heating, microwaves, CD players – all the things you would expect to find in a house – are there for your comfort.
But do not think for a minute that waterway festivals only cater for those looking at boats. There is something there for all the family, so click on the link above and consider exploring the UK and seeing it from another angle.
Paul Ost is Creator of the Save Our Canals & Waterways Facebook group.
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Useful links:
Canals in England
Other tourist attractions in England
