If you think that pottering along a UK canal in a sedate narrow boat is boring, think again, this is one of the best ways to spend a British summer, writes Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey Once the best way to move cargo ranging from coal to fresh goods across the UK , there are some 8000km of canals and rivers that are navigable across the nation . Of those, 4345km are connected to form an inland waterways network flowing through cities and the inimitable English countryside. Cruising the canals makes for a tranquil and slow trip, with the general maximum speed on canals set at a relaxed 6km/h.
With boats ranging from two berths to larger ones that can carry 12 of your extended family and friends, there are many varied routes and difficulty levels on the various trips available. The following routes all offer a little something special along the way. READ MORE: Explore Paris and beyond on a premium canal barge.