Not only are we convenient and easy to reach from all corners of the country to begin your short break or longer holiday with us, we are also at the very heart of the canal network and therefore able to provide you and your group with a wealth of choice on routes for your trip.

In the second of two features, we provide you with more suggestions of some of many great places you and your group can reach and visit depending on your length of trip.

5 days, 7 days, more 

• Coventry

A visit to one of the Midlands’ key cities, Coventry and some of its key landmarks including St Mary’s Guildhall and Coventry Cathedral are well worth a visit if time permits.

Having cruised from Braunston and skirted past Rugby on the North Oxford Canal, the scenic countryside returns past the villages of Brinklow and Stretton under Fosse before reaching the cathedral city and the Coventry Canal Basin which itelf has plenty to offer with waterside wildlife, walks and historic canal architecture. Situated in the heart of the city, it also marks the start of the Coventry Canal as the North Oxford reaches the big junction at Hawkesbury, which is the official end of the canal before it joins the Coventry Canal.

As you would expect from a bustling city centre, Coventry has plenty of shopping and leisure activity options.  You can discover the history of the British motor industry by exploring the excellent Coventry Transport Museum and or pay a visit to the Herbert Art Gallery & Museum.

• Royal Leamington Spa and Warwick

Often referred to as Royal Leamington Spa, this historic spa town in Warwickshire is renowned for its Regency architecture.

The town gained prominence in the 19th century due to its natural mineral springs, believed to have therapeutic properties. The town is well worth jumping off the boats and paying a visit to explore its elegant streets, spacious parks like Jephson Gardens,  numerous shops, cafes and restaurants, and arts venues.

Find out more by reading here

The neighbouring historic market county town of Warwick is known for its stunning medieval architecture and rich history.

The county town is most famous for Warwick Castle, a well-preserved fortress with over 1,000 years of history and one of the region’s most popular visitor attractions for a day out (certainly bear that idea in mind)

Warwick’s charm includes its cobbled streets, Tudor houses, and landmarks like St. Mary’s Church. The town also has a vibrant community with independent shops, cafes with its proximity to the canal and River Avon adding to its scenic beauty.

Royal Leamington Spa and Warwick can both be reached via the Grand Union Canal

Find out more by reading here

• Stratford-upon-Avon

World-famous as the birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is one of more popular places to visit by groups each year and for good reason.

Its historic connections to The Bard see visitors have the chance to explore sites like Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Plus the town’s Tudor-style architecture, scenic riverside along the River Avon, quaint shops, cafes and restaurants and general historical charm – notably celebrating the Bard’s legacy – are just a few of several reasons to moor up and explore.

Find out more by reading here

• Birmingham

Where do you start with Birmingham?  There is so much to see, do and explore, and as many groups over the years will attest to a visit here is well-worth the effort and recommended.

Known for its rich industrial history, diverse culture, and thriving arts scene, it boasts iconic landmarks like the Bullring, a lively leisure and food scene, The city’s extensive canal network is often said to have more miles of canal than Venice and played a crucial role in its industrial growth. Today, Birmingham’s canals have been revitalized into scenic walkways, lined with bars, cafes, and attractions like the National Sea Life Centre (again, an attraction well worth visiting). The Gas Street Basin is a particularly popular spot where visitors can enjoy boat tours (not that you and your group would have had enough of canal cruising by then) and picturesque views of the city’s modern and historic blend.

 Read more by reading here and here

• Drayton Manor Park

Not a town or city as such, but..a residential trip on the canal combined with a visit to experience the thrills and excitement of one of the UK’s leading theme parks?

Yes, that correct, there is chance for groups to visit the wonderful Drayton Manor Park as part of your itinerary. You cannot really go wrong can you?

Read more by reading here

A few extras to consider – options to head south

• Banbury

A historic market town in Oxfordshire, England, known for its picturesque setting and rich heritage.

Famous for the “Banbury Cross” and the nursery rhyme “Ride a cock horse to Banbury Cross,” the town offers a charming mix of history and modern amenities. Explore landmarks such as Banbury Museum, the medieval Banbury Castle site, and People’s Park. The town’s canalside area provides scenic walks along the Oxford Canal and riverside cafes.

Find out more by reading here

• Milton Keynes

Milton Keynes has a lot to offer for visitors to enjoy.

Attractions such as the group and family-friendly activities at Xscape which features an indoor ski slope and entertainment complex are a good option, plus MK is also home to scenic parks, lakes, and over 200 miles of dedicated cycle paths, including the tranquil Willen Lake, making it a great spot for outdoor activities.

Find out more by reading here

• Head to the capital

Yes, you read right. 

There is a great way for your group to enjoy a day out in London whilst staying cruising and staying on our boats.

Why pay expensive prices to stay in the capital when you can simply wake up, visit London, and then return to bunk back down on Lancelot and Guinevere all in a day after a busy day exploring.

Find out more by reading here

For more details about these and other routes and great places you can visit, click here

Routes to take and explore with LNBP

To make a booking or check on availability and the dates you want, head to our Bookings Page here

Or please get in touch to find out how we can help and for any general advice. Contact Nigel Smith, our Bookings Officer, by calling on 07783 002073 or emailing him at booking@lnbp.co.uk

The post 10 great places to visit with LNBP – Part II appeared first on LNBP Community Boating.