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Discover British canals and waterways

Explore the River Thames

Photo by: VisitBritain/MarkThomasson

Night view of London from height. Glittering landscape

Sightseeing tours

Choose a sightseeing tour boat to hear stories and uncover fascinating facts from the capital city’s most famous river.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Secret Adventures

Two people kayaking on the Thames towards the London Eye

Popular attractions

From the London Eye and SEA LIFE London Aquarium to Tower Bridge and The Shard, there are plenty of popular attractions to visit along the River Thames.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Thames Rockets

Passengers cheering on a red speed boat on river Thames in front of sky scrapers at Canary Wharf

High speed boat ride

Thrill seekers will love a high speed boat ride to enjoy the river at full pace. Try the Thames Rockets Break the Barrier or Ultimate London Adventure for a speedy trip on the water.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Secret Adventures

People kayaking on river Thames going past Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

Hire your own boat

For competent sailors, there are lots of opportunities to hire a private boat on the River Thames, from canoes and kayaks to luxury motor yachts.

Photo by: VisitBritain/Ann-Katrin Engels

Wooden table under a glass dome with view of London skyline

Nightlife and riverside dining

Enjoy a traditional British meal or try something a little different for dinner. There are countless places to enjoy a meal or a few evening drinks with a view of the Thames.

Britain’s waterway experiences

Enjoy an hour-long cruise of the River Avon, with a gin tasting session included.

Raise a glass on board the gin cruise

Photo by: VisitBritain/Nemorin

VB34184826
Shakespeare Distillery Gin Cruise

Join this small-group kayaking tour on the River Thames and see London from a whole new perspective.

Learn more about Secret Adventures

Photo by: VisitBritain/Secret Adventures

People kayaking in Thames against a red sunset sky and the buildings of London in the background
Secret Adventures - Kayak

These guided paddleboarding trips reveal the beauty of Glasgow’s waterways and wildlife.

More about Glasgow Paddleboarders Co.

Photo by: Glasgow Paddleboarders Co

Paddleboarders laying down and forming a shape in the River Clyde in Glasgow
Glasgow Paddleboarders Co.

Take to the controls of your own boat for a self-guided adventure across Cardiff Bay, up the River Taff and out into the city centre.

Power up with Berry Boats

Photo by: cardiffjet

Power up at the Speedway
Berry Boats

No trip to Cambridge is complete without a punting trip on the River Cam – so hop aboard with the Traditional Punting Company!

Take a punting trip on the River Cam

Photo by: Traditional Punting Company

A punting tour passing a historic university building in Cambridge
Punting on the River Cam

On a paddleboard, you’ll witness the nature, beauty and relaxed pace of life on Bristol’s waterways.

More about SUP Bristol

Photo by: SUP Bristol

A person paddleboarding in the middle of Bristol's harbourside
SUP Bristol

Take your pick from sightseeing trips, sunset voyages, and gourmet sailings on the River Thames.

Discover Oxford River Cruises

Photo by: Photos by John Cairns

A group of people on a river boat in Oxford
Oxford River Cruises

Dip your paddle into the River Cherwell, to discover pristine countryside and wildlife-rich waters.

More about Oxford Kayak Tours

Photo by: Oxford Kayak Tours

A man steering a kayak down a river in Oxford
Oxford Kayak Tours

Try a SUP yoga retreat, learn how to paddleboard for the first time, or book a sunset paddleboard adventure.

Try paddleboarding with Norwich Paddleboard Hire

Photo by: Visit Norwich/Norwich Paddleboarding

Location: Norwich, England

A group of people paddleboarding on the River Wensum
Norwich Paddleboard Hire

Hire a narrowboat and enjoy a leisurely day out on the water as you navigate through Foxton's 10 locks.

Spend a day on the water at Foxton Locks

Photo by: Visit Leicester

Location: Leicester, England

A barge sailing through Foxton Locks in Leicestershire
Foxton Locks

Kayak, canoe, cruise or wild swim? With its watersports and boat trips, Loch Lomond is a refreshing place to unwind.

Find your adventure at Loch Lomond

Photo by: VisitScotland

Bluebells in springtime on Inchcailloch - an island on Loch Lomond just a short distance from Balmaha.
Loch Lomond

Enjoy a voyage on the beautiful Loch Ness, and look out for its famous monster too…

Discover Cruise Loch Ness
visitscotland_48743853616
Cruise Loch Ness

Explore a fresh side of the city’s historic docks on a kayaking, canoeing or wild-swimming adventure.

Visit Liverpool Watersports Centre

Photo by: Liverpool Watersports Centre

People sliding down a slide into the water at Liverpool Watersports Centre
Liverpool Watersports Centre

Boating, hiking, cycling and wildlife-spotting: this tranquil waterway has it all.

Discover the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

Photo by: Visit Wales

Location: Brecon Beacon

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

Uncover a secret walking route passing through the heart of the city.

Discover London's secrets along Regent's Canal

Photo by: visitlondon.com

A canal boat moving down Regent's Canal in north London.
Regent's Canal

Cruise through underground tunnels to discover fossils, wildlife and relics of the Industrial Revolution.

Tour Dudley Canal and Caverns

Photo by: Dudley Canal and Caverns

A tour group being guided through a tunnel underneath Dudley Canal
Dudley Canal and Caverns

For sightseeing tours, dinner cruises and private waterway charters, you’ve come to the right place.

Discover Sherborne Wharf Canal Tours

Photo by: Sherborne Wharf

A barge sailing down a canal in Birmingham, near Sherborne Wharf
Sherborne Wharf canal tours

Glide down the River Wear on a boat trip that passes the sights of Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle and iconic bridges.

Set sail with a river cruise

Photo by: Ioan Said Photography

Two people stood on a bridge overlooking a tour boat sailing down a river in Durham
The Prince Bishop River Cruiser

Glide down the River Wear in a traditional hand-built rowing boat and spot the sights of Durham from the water.

Hire a Browns Rowing Boat

Photo by: Getty Images/E+/SolStock

A male couple sitting in a rowboat, rowing together
Browns Rowing Boats

A narrowboat break on the Kennet and Avon Canal is the ideal way to connect with nature.

Discover Bath Narrowboats

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Bath

Bath Narrowboats, Kennett and Avon Canal
Bath Narrowboats

Did you know that Birmingham has more canals than Venice? Take a closer look on this adventure…

Discover this Bustling Birmingham Kayak Tour

Photo by: VisitBritain/Storyman

Location: Birmingham

Two men kayaking on canal through central Birmingham
Bustling Birmingham Kayak Tour – Roundhouse

Take to the Exeter Ship Canal with a paddle in hand as you see the city from the water aboard a paddleboard.

Travel down Exeter Ship Canal

Photo by: Matt Round

A child and a man stood on paddleboards in the River Exe in Exeter
Paddleboard with AS Watersports

Explore on a guided tour, or hire a canoe, paddleboard or kayak for an independent adventure.

Discover Canoe and Kayak Adventures

Photo by: Canoe and Kayak Tours

Location: Windsor, England

Two people on a kayak posing for a photo on the River Thames
Canoe and Kayak Adventures

One of the best ways to see the South Downs is on the water, as you paddle the Ouse, Cuckmere or Arun with The Kayak Coach.

Paddle your way into the South Downs with The Kayak Coach

Photo by: The Kayak Coach

Location: South Downs

The Kayak Coach
Paddle the South Downs with The Kayak Coach

See York from a fresh perspective on a 45-minute sightseeing cruise along the peaceful River Ouse.

Enjoy a River Ouse Cruise

Photo by: Sergii Figurnyi / Alamy Stock Photo

Location: York

A cruise ship travelling down the River Ouse in York
River Ouse Cruise

Take to the helm of your very own boat to explore this glorious waterway.

Discover the beautiful Broads by boat

Photo by: Norfolk Broads Direct

A family riding on a boat in the Norfolk Broads
Boat hire in the Broads

See Stratford from the water on a stand-up paddleboard tour of the River Avon.

Take a tour with SUP Stratford

Photo by: SUP Stratford

Location: Stratford-Upon-Avon

A group of people paddleboarding down the river Avon near Stratford-upon-Avon
Stand-up Paddleboard River Avon Tour

Enjoy a cruise down the River Avon in one of the best ways to see Stratford-upon-Avon.

Take a boat trip with Avon Boating

Photo by: Gullachsen

Location: Stratford-Upon-Avon

A boat sailing down the river Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon
Boating on the River Avon

This five-star cruise company offers picnics, champagne and afternoon tea on its sightseeing trips.

Take to the water with Cruze Luxury Boat Services

Photo by: Cruze

Location: Windsor, England

A woman sitting on a boat travelling down the River Thames in Windsor
Cruze Luxury Boat Services

This is no ordinary watersports trip: the Pontcysyllte is one of the tallest navigable aqueducts in the world.

Go aqueduct canoeing in Llangollen

Photo by: Bearded Men Adventures

A group paddling kayaks across a viaduct with scenic views of Snowdonia/Eryri National Park
Aqueduct canoeing in Llangollen

Float along the River Dee on the Chester Town Kayak Tour, or opt for the pacey White Water sessions to take on the rushing weir.

Paddle away with Dee River Kayaking

Photo by: Marketing Cheshire

People smiling and laughing while kayaking down a river in Chester
Dee River Kayaking

A fun way to try white water rafting, whether you’re dipping in for the first time or are a seasoned rafter.

Visit the National White Water Rafting Centre

Photo by: Crown copyright (2011) Visit Wales, all rights reserved

People wearing wetsuits and helmets paddling down a rapid
National White Water Rafting Centre

Meander along the meanders on a paddleboard tour of the Cuckmere river, in the Seven Sisters Country Park.

Pack your swimsuit and head to Buzz Active Cuckmere

Photo by: Eastbourne Borough Council

Location: South Downs

Buzz Cuckmere
Cuckmere River Paddleboarding

Hop on board a floating hot tub or barbecue boat, for a tour of Canary Wharf you’ll never forget.

Explore with Skuna Boats

Photo by: Skuna Boats

Views during the Hot Tub on the Thames trip with Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats

The tranquil waters of this water park are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventures, whether you’re a beginner or pro.

Discover SUP at Cotswolds Water Park

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

SUP at Cotswolds Water Park
SUP at Cotswold Water Park

Sea eagles are known to nest here – and look out for otters, herons and pine martens too.

Try canoeing on Loch Torridon

Photo by: VisitScotland

The Torridon Hills and Upper Loch Torridon
Canoeing on Loch Torridon

This picture-perfect loch is surrounded by dramatic peaks and home to diverse wildlife.

Discover Loch Shiel

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Location: Loch Shiel, Scotland

Glenfinnan Monument at the head of Loch Shiel, Lochaber.
Loch Shiel

This tranquil natural waterway is a haven for kayaking, hiking, fishing and paddleboarding.

Learn a sustainable skill at Llangorse Lake

Photo by: Visit Wales

Location: Brecon Beacon

Llangorse Lake
Llangorse Lake

All aboard a grand steamer for a scenic trip around Lake Windermere.

Sail away with Windermere Lake Cruises

Photo by: Visit Lake District/Paul Mitchell

A man and a woman on a boat driven by a skipper on a lake
Windermere Lake Cruises

The River Derwent beckons for a relaxing trip through Derby’s green landscapes aboard the eco-friendly Outram boat.

Sail away with Derby Riverboat Trips

Photo by: Visit Derby

A group of people riding in a riverboat
Derby Riverboat Trips

Before your voyage, enjoy a drink at the River Lodge, with its front-row views of the water.

Get to know Princess River Cruises

Photo by: Princess River Cruises

Location: Notts

Princess River Cruises
Princess River Cruises

Enjoy an hour-long cruise of the River Avon, with a gin tasting session included.

Raise a glass on board the gin cruise

Photo by: VisitBritain/Nemorin

VB34184826
Shakespeare Distillery Gin Cruise

Join this small-group kayaking tour on the River Thames and see London from a whole new perspective.

Learn more about Secret Adventures

Photo by: VisitBritain/Secret Adventures

People kayaking in Thames against a red sunset sky and the buildings of London in the background
Secret Adventures - Kayak

These guided paddleboarding trips reveal the beauty of Glasgow’s waterways and wildlife.

More about Glasgow Paddleboarders Co.

Photo by: Glasgow Paddleboarders Co

Paddleboarders laying down and forming a shape in the River Clyde in Glasgow
Glasgow Paddleboarders Co.

Take to the controls of your own boat for a self-guided adventure across Cardiff Bay, up the River Taff and out into the city centre.

Power up with Berry Boats

Photo by: cardiffjet

Power up at the Speedway
Berry Boats

No trip to Cambridge is complete without a punting trip on the River Cam – so hop aboard with the Traditional Punting Company!

Take a punting trip on the River Cam

Photo by: Traditional Punting Company

A punting tour passing a historic university building in Cambridge
Punting on the River Cam

On a paddleboard, you’ll witness the nature, beauty and relaxed pace of life on Bristol’s waterways.

More about SUP Bristol

Photo by: SUP Bristol

A person paddleboarding in the middle of Bristol's harbourside
SUP Bristol

Take your pick from sightseeing trips, sunset voyages, and gourmet sailings on the River Thames.

Discover Oxford River Cruises

Photo by: Photos by John Cairns

A group of people on a river boat in Oxford
Oxford River Cruises

Dip your paddle into the River Cherwell, to discover pristine countryside and wildlife-rich waters.

More about Oxford Kayak Tours

Photo by: Oxford Kayak Tours

A man steering a kayak down a river in Oxford
Oxford Kayak Tours

Try a SUP yoga retreat, learn how to paddleboard for the first time, or book a sunset paddleboard adventure.

Try paddleboarding with Norwich Paddleboard Hire

Photo by: Visit Norwich/Norwich Paddleboarding

Location: Norwich, England

A group of people paddleboarding on the River Wensum
Norwich Paddleboard Hire

Hire a narrowboat and enjoy a leisurely day out on the water as you navigate through Foxton's 10 locks.

Spend a day on the water at Foxton Locks

Photo by: Visit Leicester

Location: Leicester, England

A barge sailing through Foxton Locks in Leicestershire
Foxton Locks

Kayak, canoe, cruise or wild swim? With its watersports and boat trips, Loch Lomond is a refreshing place to unwind.

Find your adventure at Loch Lomond

Photo by: VisitScotland

Bluebells in springtime on Inchcailloch - an island on Loch Lomond just a short distance from Balmaha.
Loch Lomond

Enjoy a voyage on the beautiful Loch Ness, and look out for its famous monster too…

Discover Cruise Loch Ness
visitscotland_48743853616
Cruise Loch Ness

Explore a fresh side of the city’s historic docks on a kayaking, canoeing or wild-swimming adventure.

Visit Liverpool Watersports Centre

Photo by: Liverpool Watersports Centre

People sliding down a slide into the water at Liverpool Watersports Centre
Liverpool Watersports Centre

Boating, hiking, cycling and wildlife-spotting: this tranquil waterway has it all.

Discover the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

Photo by: Visit Wales

Location: Brecon Beacon

Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal
Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal

Uncover a secret walking route passing through the heart of the city.

Discover London's secrets along Regent's Canal

Photo by: visitlondon.com

A canal boat moving down Regent's Canal in north London.
Regent's Canal

Cruise through underground tunnels to discover fossils, wildlife and relics of the Industrial Revolution.

Tour Dudley Canal and Caverns

Photo by: Dudley Canal and Caverns

A tour group being guided through a tunnel underneath Dudley Canal
Dudley Canal and Caverns

For sightseeing tours, dinner cruises and private waterway charters, you’ve come to the right place.

Discover Sherborne Wharf Canal Tours

Photo by: Sherborne Wharf

A barge sailing down a canal in Birmingham, near Sherborne Wharf
Sherborne Wharf canal tours

Glide down the River Wear on a boat trip that passes the sights of Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle and iconic bridges.

Set sail with a river cruise

Photo by: Ioan Said Photography

Two people stood on a bridge overlooking a tour boat sailing down a river in Durham
The Prince Bishop River Cruiser

Glide down the River Wear in a traditional hand-built rowing boat and spot the sights of Durham from the water.

Hire a Browns Rowing Boat

Photo by: Getty Images/E+/SolStock

A male couple sitting in a rowboat, rowing together
Browns Rowing Boats

A narrowboat break on the Kennet and Avon Canal is the ideal way to connect with nature.

Discover Bath Narrowboats

Photo by: Getty Images

Location: Bath

Bath Narrowboats, Kennett and Avon Canal
Bath Narrowboats

Did you know that Birmingham has more canals than Venice? Take a closer look on this adventure…

Discover this Bustling Birmingham Kayak Tour

Photo by: VisitBritain/Storyman

Location: Birmingham

Two men kayaking on canal through central Birmingham
Bustling Birmingham Kayak Tour – Roundhouse

Take to the Exeter Ship Canal with a paddle in hand as you see the city from the water aboard a paddleboard.

Travel down Exeter Ship Canal

Photo by: Matt Round

A child and a man stood on paddleboards in the River Exe in Exeter
Paddleboard with AS Watersports

Explore on a guided tour, or hire a canoe, paddleboard or kayak for an independent adventure.

Discover Canoe and Kayak Adventures

Photo by: Canoe and Kayak Tours

Location: Windsor, England

Two people on a kayak posing for a photo on the River Thames
Canoe and Kayak Adventures

One of the best ways to see the South Downs is on the water, as you paddle the Ouse, Cuckmere or Arun with The Kayak Coach.

Paddle your way into the South Downs with The Kayak Coach

Photo by: The Kayak Coach

Location: South Downs

The Kayak Coach
Paddle the South Downs with The Kayak Coach

See York from a fresh perspective on a 45-minute sightseeing cruise along the peaceful River Ouse.

Enjoy a River Ouse Cruise

Photo by: Sergii Figurnyi / Alamy Stock Photo

Location: York

A cruise ship travelling down the River Ouse in York
River Ouse Cruise

Take to the helm of your very own boat to explore this glorious waterway.

Discover the beautiful Broads by boat

Photo by: Norfolk Broads Direct

A family riding on a boat in the Norfolk Broads
Boat hire in the Broads

See Stratford from the water on a stand-up paddleboard tour of the River Avon.

Take a tour with SUP Stratford

Photo by: SUP Stratford

Location: Stratford-Upon-Avon

A group of people paddleboarding down the river Avon near Stratford-upon-Avon
Stand-up Paddleboard River Avon Tour

Enjoy a cruise down the River Avon in one of the best ways to see Stratford-upon-Avon.

Take a boat trip with Avon Boating

Photo by: Gullachsen

Location: Stratford-Upon-Avon

A boat sailing down the river Avon in Stratford-upon-Avon
Boating on the River Avon

This five-star cruise company offers picnics, champagne and afternoon tea on its sightseeing trips.

Take to the water with Cruze Luxury Boat Services

Photo by: Cruze

Location: Windsor, England

A woman sitting on a boat travelling down the River Thames in Windsor
Cruze Luxury Boat Services

This is no ordinary watersports trip: the Pontcysyllte is one of the tallest navigable aqueducts in the world.

Go aqueduct canoeing in Llangollen

Photo by: Bearded Men Adventures

A group paddling kayaks across a viaduct with scenic views of Snowdonia/Eryri National Park
Aqueduct canoeing in Llangollen

Float along the River Dee on the Chester Town Kayak Tour, or opt for the pacey White Water sessions to take on the rushing weir.

Paddle away with Dee River Kayaking

Photo by: Marketing Cheshire

People smiling and laughing while kayaking down a river in Chester
Dee River Kayaking

A fun way to try white water rafting, whether you’re dipping in for the first time or are a seasoned rafter.

Visit the National White Water Rafting Centre

Photo by: Crown copyright (2011) Visit Wales, all rights reserved

People wearing wetsuits and helmets paddling down a rapid
National White Water Rafting Centre

Meander along the meanders on a paddleboard tour of the Cuckmere river, in the Seven Sisters Country Park.

Pack your swimsuit and head to Buzz Active Cuckmere

Photo by: Eastbourne Borough Council

Location: South Downs

Buzz Cuckmere
Cuckmere River Paddleboarding

Hop on board a floating hot tub or barbecue boat, for a tour of Canary Wharf you’ll never forget.

Explore with Skuna Boats

Photo by: Skuna Boats

Views during the Hot Tub on the Thames trip with Skuna Boats
Skuna Boats

The tranquil waters of this water park are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) adventures, whether you’re a beginner or pro.

Discover SUP at Cotswolds Water Park

Photo by: Cotswolds Tourism

Location: Cotswolds

SUP at Cotswolds Water Park
SUP at Cotswold Water Park

Sea eagles are known to nest here – and look out for otters, herons and pine martens too.

Try canoeing on Loch Torridon

Photo by: VisitScotland

The Torridon Hills and Upper Loch Torridon
Canoeing on Loch Torridon

This picture-perfect loch is surrounded by dramatic peaks and home to diverse wildlife.

Discover Loch Shiel

Photo by: VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

Location: Loch Shiel, Scotland

Glenfinnan Monument at the head of Loch Shiel, Lochaber.
Loch Shiel

This tranquil natural waterway is a haven for kayaking, hiking, fishing and paddleboarding.

Learn a sustainable skill at Llangorse Lake

Photo by: Visit Wales

Location: Brecon Beacon

Llangorse Lake
Llangorse Lake

All aboard a grand steamer for a scenic trip around Lake Windermere.

Sail away with Windermere Lake Cruises

Photo by: Visit Lake District/Paul Mitchell

A man and a woman on a boat driven by a skipper on a lake
Windermere Lake Cruises

The River Derwent beckons for a relaxing trip through Derby’s green landscapes aboard the eco-friendly Outram boat.

Sail away with Derby Riverboat Trips

Photo by: Visit Derby

A group of people riding in a riverboat
Derby Riverboat Trips

Before your voyage, enjoy a drink at the River Lodge, with its front-row views of the water.

Get to know Princess River Cruises

Photo by: Princess River Cruises

Location: Notts

Princess River Cruises
Princess River Cruises

More outdoor adventures in Britain

Britain is the perfect destination to try your hand at an adventure sport.

Photo by: Crown copyright (2011) Visit Wales, all rights reserved

People wearing wetsuits and helmets paddling down a rapid

Outside its famous cities, Britain is full of green spaces, from its 15 National Parks to 46 National Landscapes and 3 million hectares of woodland.

Photo by: VisitScotland

Bluebells in springtime on Inchcailloch - an island on Loch Lomond just a short distance from Balmaha.

From England’s striking south coast, to Scotland’s West Highland Way, you’ll find landscapes steeped in history and beauty.

Photo by: Getty Images/E+/SolStock

Two young adults walking the Northumberland, UK countryside.

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