Top 5 Narrowboat Destinations in Leicestershire
At Union Wharf Narrowboats, we’re proud to operate across some of England’s most popular canals. Whether you’re after vibrant cities, award-winning markets, historic locks, or miles of stunning English countryside, we’ve got the perfect narrowboat destination for you.
We’ve curated our Top 5 narrowboat destinations in Leicestershire:
Market Harborough
Home sweet home. The perfect place to bookend your Union Wharf Narrowboats holiday.
Market Harborough is a charming market town with 800 years of history, consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK – for good reason. It’s renowned for its boutique shopping, excellent cuisine, and rich cultural experiences.
Browse Britain’s Best Small Indoor Market for artisan gifts and street food, wander a 200-year-old leather workshop, enjoy afternoon tea at one of the many independent cafes, or visit the quaint Cultural Quarter for the town’s museum, theatre, and iconic stilted Old Grammar School.
All Union Wharf Narrowboat holidays begin and end at Union Wharf, a short walk from the centre of Market Harborough.
Foxton Locks
This is one of the most popular narrowboat destinations in the entire country. When you experience it for yourself, you’ll understand why it’s so high on every narrowboater’s bucket list.
Foxton Locks is home to the longest staircase flight of locks in Britain! It’s the perfect experience for beginners, as volunteer lockkeepers are on hand to guide you through all ten locks.
There’s plenty to do and see beyond the locks themselves. If you’re interested in its history, explore the Canal Museum and the Inclined Boat Lift. Grab a coffee and a pre-loved book at the old lockkeeper’s cottage or settle in for a delicious pub lunch at the Foxton Locks Inn or Bridge 61.
The best part? Foxton Locks is only a short stretch down the canal from Union Wharf Narrowboats. There’s no easier way to experience Foxton Locks for yourself than with a Union Wharf Narrowboats holiday.
Enjoy Foxton Locks on any of our hugely popular routes.
Wistow
The perfect stop for anyone seeking a bit of rural peace and quiet.
Here you’ll find Leicestershire countryside at its best. With its scenic walking paths, wildlife-rich landscapes, and friendly community feel, Wistow is where you moor when you want to stretch your legs! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of ordinary life and unwind with a ramble in Wistow.
Don’t miss the renowned Wistow Rural Centre. Grab homemade treats or boutique gifts at a range of independent shops selling everything from ceramics and floral arrangements to baklava and scones. Wander the impressive garden centre or get lost in one of England’s largest maize mazes!
Experience Wistow on our 4-night Foxton, Wistow and Return route.
Braunston
The Heart of England’s Waterways. This junction of the Oxford and Grand Union Canals is a haven of canalside pubs, towpath walks, and narrowboating history.
Spot historic boats in the Braunston Marina or visit the mighty Cathedral of the Canals, famous for all the boaters that have been married or laid to rest here.
If you’re peckish, stop by the renowned local butchers, grab quality fish and chips at Braunston Fryer, or treat yourself to a pub lunch at The Boat House or The Wheatsheaf. If you’re looking for something unique, try out the floating café, Gongoozler’s Rest.
This quintessential English village is technically in Northamptonshire, but it was far too special to leave off our list!
Experience Braunston on our 7-night Rugby and Return route.
Leicester
Cruise right into the centre of this vibrant, cultural hub with Union Wharf Narrowboats.
Leicester has something for absolutely everyone. Moor up beside the quiet greenery of the Castle Gardens or historic Friar’s Mill and set off on foot to explore all that Leicester has to offer.
Uncover Leicester’s history at the King Richard III Visitor Centre or the grand Cathedral, or sample the dazzling wares sold on the Golden Mile. Enjoy museums, galleries, a diverse food scene, and one of Britain’s oldest covered markets. On your way out, visit its wildlife reserve, Aylestone Meadows, for the chance to spot rare Longhorn cattle and otters!
Experience Leicester on our 7-night Leicester and Return route.
There are so many incredible places to visit on a Union Wharf Narrowboats holiday, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Unlike with a hotel, you’re never tied to one place. Check out our route guides and choose your own adventure.
Can’t find a route that suits? Give our friendly team a call, and we’ll be happy to help you design your perfect narrowboat holiday.