2.5 hours cruising

After your comprehensive boat handling training at the picturesque Union Wharf marina, set off on your narrowboat adventure! Cruise along the Market Harborough Arm of the Grand Union Canal, a peaceful 5-mile stretch of wandering countryside, right in the heart of the East Midlands. Along the way, you’ll need to open Swing Bridge to proceed.

Moor up for the night shortly after the swing bridge. There’s a pretty towpath where you can alight and walk a few short minutes to the Black Horse, Foxton. They have a charming outdoor space and a great menu. Alternatively, head further into Foxton to the Shoulder of Mutton. Enjoy some drinks and a meal before a cosy night aboard your holiday boat.

6 hours cruising

Wander up to the Top Lock Café for a bacon roll and a coffee, admiring the greenery and the world-famous Foxton Locks. Find a volunteer lockkeeper to book your ascent, and they’ll give you an approximate time. Climb up the longest staircase flight of locks in Britain!

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the stunning waterways and through the 1,000 metre Husbands Bosworth Tunnel. Turn left onto the Welford Arm and take the sleepy route via one tiny lock into the basin, where you’ll be able to turn your holiday boat around. Moor up to enjoy a drink or bite to eat at the traditional canal-side pub, The Wharf Inn, Welford. Navigate back through the locks and choose a spot to spend the night.

7 hours cruising

Set off for the day, keeping right at the junction, and head through Husbands Bosworth Tunnel up to the top of Foxton Locks. Find the lockkeeper to book your descent down the world-famous staircase locks. Once clear, head back to Market Harborough via two swing bridges.

Moor up in the Union Wharf marina, and enjoy an evening meal at The Waterfront, or head into town, where you’ll find a wonderful variety of eateries, as well as plenty of boutique shops.