The best bits...

A barge hire trip with us can be a simple and relaxing break in serene surroundings. But if you fancy seeing something a little more unusual than just delightful British countryside, have a look at the highlights below.

Stoke Bruerne

The most picturesque canal village in the book. If you want to see the traditional folk art and culture of the canals then this is the place for you. Book your barge hire from Union Wharf Marina

Tardebigge Locks

Old ´biggey´ lives up to its name... with 36 locks in a row, this staircase is the ultimate feat in narrow boating. You will probably need to sleep for a week at the end, but at least you can say that you've conquered the biggest flight of locks in the UK! Tardebigge is on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, and can be reached from Alvecote Marina

Foxton Locks

Not as ridiculous as Tardebigge, but a serious challenge all the same- Foxton has a staircase of 10 locks in a row and is located on the Grand Union. Book your barge hire from Union Wharf Marina

Standedge Tunnel

The biggest of Britain's canal tunnels. Standedge is a massive 3.5 miles long and burrows through the Pennines at an altitude of 196 metres. It's big, it's impressive and it can be reached on a longer barge hire trip from Alvecote Marina or Union Wharf Marina

Harecastle Tunnel

Harecastle is only half the size of Standedge Tunnel but it will still take your breath away as you make the long and slow trip through this dark and eerie passage. What's more, Harecastle tunnel is commonly believed to be haunted. If you dare make the journey, book your barge hire from Alvecote Marina

Anderton Boat Lift

Got to be seen to be believed, this wonder on the Trent and Mersey Canal hauls narrow boats some 15 metres into the air using hydraulics. To reach Anderton, book a longer barge hire holiday from Alvecote Marina

Hatton 21

A flight of how many locks??? That's right, 21 locks are the challenge at Hatton on the Grand Union Canal. That's a whole lot of cranking paddles, pushing heavy lock gates and working as a team. And a whole lot of celebration when you reach the end. Book your barge hire from Union Wharf Marina

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

A bridge that carries the canal (and your boat) over a spectacular Welsh ravine. A glorious experience that you won't forget. Ever. Book your barge hire from Blackwater Meadow Marina