Boating along the Kennet & Avon Canal
After the most famous restoration campaign in canal history, the Kennet & Avon Canal was reopened to boats in 1990. With the help of the Heritage Lottery Fund, the canal was then brought up to tip-top condition through an extensive programe of repairs and improvements which restored the glory of such historic structures as Dundas Aqueduct.
The result is a canal which is now as welcoming to boaters as any other. More facilities are appearing along the canal every year, helped by the active Association of Canal Enterprises and a vigorous canal trust. You can hire boats from several locations along the canal, with facilities most plentiful at the eastern and western ends - the central section is quieter.
The canal is broad-beam throughout, and now that the Newbury 'Tank Bridge' has been raised, can accommodate quite sizeable barges.
You will need at least a fortnight for an out-and-back cruise covering the entire length of the waterway - ideally more. But you can readily explore a smaller section in a one-week holiday.
Free boat safety advice
Free boat safety advice from Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service is available for boaters on the K&A between Limpley Stoke and Froxfield.
To take advantage of this service, and have smoke detectors installed free of charge, simply call 07734 483880 or 0800 389 7849.
Feel free to chat to any safety advisor that you see along the canal, or book your advance visit at www.wiltsfire.gov.uk
Find detailed information on local services, moorings and stoppages by using the drop down menu on the left.
