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

Begin your day by cruising through a narrow swing bridge into the basin at Foxton Locks and moor up. Wander up to the Top Lock Café for a bacon roll and a coffee, admiring the greenery and the world-famous locks. Head back to your holiday boat and set off, taking the right fork past Debdale Marina.

Continue through Saddington Tunnel. You then have 7 locks ahead of you before the turning point. Take your time and enjoy the stunning landscape as you cruise. Turn at Wain Bridge 81, go through 2 locks, and then moor up around Newton Bridge 80. Enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by nature.

5 hours cruising

Begin your day with a lovely walk across the fields to the renowned Wistow Rural Centre. Here you’ll find a bistro serving homemade treats and hearty meals, and you can browse the quaint independent shops selling everything from ceramics to baklava. There’s an impressive garden centre, and, in the summer months, one of England’s largest maize mazes!

When you’re finished, cruise back through the remaining locks and moor up after the tunnel, on the towpath before Smeeton Road Bridge 72. From here, venture into the little village of Saddington and The Queen’s Head pub. There is an incredible view of the Leicestershire landscape – take some coins for the telescope in the pub garden or pack your walking boots to enjoy it firsthand.

5 hours cruising

Cruise onto the basin at Foxton, keeping left toward Market Harborough. Moor up again at Foxton Locks and enjoy a delicious pub lunch at the Foxton Locks Inn – make sure to book in advance, as it can be very popular. Check out the Foxton Canal Museum and the famous Boat Lift.

Navigate back to Market Harborough via two swing bridges, then moor up for the night in the Union Wharf basin. Enjoy an evening meal at The Waterfront overlooking the marina, or walk 15 minutes into town, where you’ll find a wonderful variety of eateries, as well as plenty of boutique shops.