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leisure guide to canals, rivers and lakes

There's plenty going on around Britain's canals, rivers and lakes - whether you're a dedicated waterways enthusiast or just looking for somewhere new to explore.

Visiting your nearest canal or river is a great way to spend time in the great outdoors - whatever you do when you get there. Use the links below to access all sorts of information to help you enjoy your time by Britain's waterways.

Boating

Information for boat owners as well as hire-boaters. Find a mooring, renew your boat licence, plan a cruise and find the latest stoppages.

Boating »
boating

Fishing

Buy your rod licence online, find your nearest fishery and read our guide to the types of fish you can catch in Britain's canals and rivers.

Fishing »
fishing in autumn

Cycling

Download a cycle permit, read our hints and tips for towpath cycling and find hundreds of cycling routes all over Britain.

Cycling »
Cyclists

Walking

Find hundreds of waterside walks, from long-distance challenges to short strolls, pub walks and suitable routes for walking the dog.

Walking »
couple walking with dog

Pubs & restaurants

Read our reviews of the best waterside pubs and restaurants and then find your nearest hostelry with our waterside pub finder.

Pubs & restaurants »
Canalside restaurant

Places to go

For family days out, romantic afternoons or educational excursions, there's a whole host of attractions and places to go by Britain's canals and rivers.

Places to go »
Places to go

Canal holidays

Discover the joys of a slower pace of life with a relaxing canal holiday. A canal holiday is a holiday like no other.

Canal holidays »
Family on canal holiday

Volunteering

Volunteer on the waterways and do your bit to help your local community. Find out how to volunteer – for a variety of interesting roles.

Volunteering »
Volunteers painting bridge