Kings Lock

Kings Lock going north to Leicester

If you are taking a boat from Market Harborough for seven days, and you choose to travel north towards Leicester, you will come to a point at which the Grand Union Canal meets the River Soar. This is Lock 38 known as Kings Lock.

There is nothing unusual about this lock in terms of its operation but you will need to pay attention to the water levels here. The River Soar has water levels which vary to a much greater extent than the canal, and if the water is running high then there is a danger that you will get into trouble beyond this lock.

The Canal and River trust issue flood warnings if necessary and if you are travelling on this route you will need to regularly check the stoppages page.

When you arrive at Kings Lock, moor up on the left-hand side and walk down to the northern side of the lock itself.

Kings lock going north

There is an Indicator Board on this side where you will clearly see the level of risk depending on how high the water is.

If a deluge of rain means that water rises as you are travelling along the canal through Leicester and you are at all worried, then call your Union Wharf engineer/emergency number so that we can advise.

We are delighted that more and more narrowboat novices are enjoying the canals around Market Harborough. We are putting together a series of Beginner Guides to help you prepare for your holiday and find a few solutions to common problems en route.

It is also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the Canal and River Trust’s Boaters’ Handbook before you arrive.

We offer all kinds of narrowboats, from Day Boats to Boutique Narrowboats and boats suitable for families. All our hires involve full training and we welcome complete beginners.