Route Guides

Where can you go on a Narrowboat?

With Union Wharf Narrowboats, you can choose your own adventure. Cruise through stunning East Midlands landscapes, climb the world-famous Foxton Locks, moor up in quaint English villages, visit award-winning market towns, embrace the bustle of city life, and so much more.

We’re proud to operate across some of England’s most popular canals, so we’ve curated some route guides for our favourite trips. Whether you’re after a weekend away, a midweek break, or a longer stay, we’ve got a route you’ll love. Browse our route guides below to find your perfect holiday.

Weekend Breaks

3 nights

Foxton, Kibworth and Return

A relaxed cruise through secluded countryside perfect for beginners. Only 10 locks at a gentle pace across 3 nights. Enjoy Foxton, traditional pubs, and Saddington Reservoir.

Foxton, Welford and Return

A gentle cruise at a relaxed pace across 3 nights, ideal for novices. Traverse the world-famous Foxton Locks, visit canal-side pubs and enjoy Husbands Bosworth Tunnel.

Midweek Breaks

4 nights

Foxton, Welford and Return

For those seeking a midweek waterside escape, with stunning scenery, a trip through the world-famous Foxton Locks, canal-side dining, and plenty of time for shopping in Market Harborough’s award-winning market.

Foxton, Wistow and Return

A rural midweek adventure across 4 nights for those seeking a quiet escape into the countryside. Expect sweeping landscapes, country walks, and a visit to the renowned Wistow Rural Centre.

Longer Stays

7+ nights

Braunston - the heart of england's waterways. Visit this popular canal boat destination with union wharf narrowboats.

Foxton, Watford, Braunston and Rugby

A wonderful week on the waterways at a gentle pace suitable for novices. Highlights include Braunston village, an afternoon in Rugby, and the stunning Watford and Foxton staircase locks.

Foxton, Leicester and Return

Seven days of narrowboating fun, with a perfect blend of rural and urban experiences. Moor up in Leicester city centre for its diverse culinary and cultural delights, before a peaceful cruise through the stunning East Midlands countryside.

Our Holiday Boats

Gosling - a 6-berth pet-friendly canal boat available for hire from union wharf narrowboats

Gosling

  • Up to 6 people

Shelduck - a 4-berth pet-friendly canal boat available for hire from union wharf narrowboats

Shelduck

  • Up to 4 people

Mallard - a 6-berth pet-friendly canal boat available for hire from union wharf narrowboats

Mallard

  • Up to 6 people