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Why go boating?

Happy family on boat

There's something magical about spending time by water - the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful surroundings, the sights of the wildlife and the passing boats. What better place could there be to enjoy a memorable holiday or a relaxing afternoon?

You can explore thousands of waterway miles from the comfort of a holiday boat, whether a traditional canal narrowboat or a luxurious river cruiser. There are boat hire centres dotted all around the country, so you can choose the area that intrigues you most - from the rolling hills of Wiltshire to the drama of Loch Ness and Scotland's Great Glen.

Or you could simply put on your outdoor shoes and take a walk along the towpath. Stop off at unspoilt canalside pubs, discover rare river wildlife, or soak in the stunning scenery of the Lakes. Try the Thames Path, Britain's only riverside National Trail, for the ultimate walking experience. Many towpaths can be cycled, too - the best way to see Britain from the saddle.

Canals and rivers are beautiful in themselves, but the inland waterways' unique appeal comes just as much from what you'll find on the waterside. They're rich in pubs and restaurants, quiet country villages, wildlife sites, museums, and countless more attractions. Discovering life on the other side of the towpath is one of the things that sets inland cruising apart from offshore boating, and that draws so many visitors to the waterways every year.

But don't let us fool you into thinking it's all quiet countryside and unhurried cruising. Waterways flow through some of Britain's liveliest cities: the Thames through London is lined with attractions, while Birmingham's canalside is alive with night-time entertainment. And should you want to experience a few thrills and spills, there's a world of canoeing, white-water rafting and water-skiing to discover.

Visit www.onthewater.co.uk for lots of ideas about getting on the water for the day