canal boat cruises london

sailing dates & times

Monday to sunday.

LITTLE VENICE

CAMDEN LOCK

Arrives / Departs

Additional Sailings: June to August

Saturday & Sunday only

Boat trips from Little Venice to Camden Lock Market.

Enjoy the peace and relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of modern day London while you are transported back to a bygone era in our origin 1906 canal boat.

This is London sightseeing as you have never experienced before.

Discover an enchanting world of beautiful Edwardian streets as you glide through Little Venice. You then make your way around the edge of Regent's Park past London Zoo and into buzzing Camden Town with its vibrant market right by the lock.

During the trip from Little Venice to Camden there is a live commentary from our trained guide who will tell you all about the canal's history from 1800 to the present day.

If you prefer the trip with no commentary, please join our canal boat tour from Camden as there is no commentary during the journey to Little Venice. (Unless specifically requested by Group Bookings).

This London attraction is Winner of TripAdvisor's coveted Traveller's Choice award for 6 years in a row.

Adult - £18.00 / Concession £14.00 / Under 4s FREE

Return Adult - £23.00 / Concession £19.00 / Under 4s FREE

Concessions apply to under-14's and over-65's.

Group Bookings Groups of ten or more must book in advance by email and need at least 48 hours advance notice.

Tickets may be purchased on the boat by Cash, Visa, Mastercard, Amex or by using your London Pass.

welcome to jason's trip the original regent's canal tour

Jason's 2024 season is now open.   we look forward to welcoming you onboard. our timetable & prices are detailed below. pay at the boat as you board.   we accept credit cards, cash, & london pass. no booking fees.

• Main Home Page
• The Ice House
• Picture Shop
• London's Canals
• Volunteering
• LCM Boat Trips
• Historic Boat Trips
• Shopping Museum shop Buy Books
•  Italiano  Deutsch  Francais

To charter our jointly-owned boat Long Tom contact our partners Angel Community Narrowboat Trust .

On Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays from Easter to the end of October, the museum offers a programme of boat trips starting from the museum and including a museum visit. A guide travels with you to give a commentary. except for short trips, tea and coffee are served on board and a guide offers a commentary. See our Boat Trips page for details and to book your place in advance. The trips include long day trips to Paddington or Victoria Park in East London, and a weekly cream tea cruise from the museum lasting around 90 minutes on board the sightseeing boat Long Tom . .On some Wednesdays we offer short trips to St. Pancras and back in about 25 minutes without a guide or refreshments.

Make your way to Little Venice (near Paddington and Warwick Road Underground stations) and take a one-way cruise to Camden. (allow an hour) Walk along the towpath to King's Cross. (allow 40 minutes) If you have a smartphone you can do the Webwalk using the phone as your walk guide. (allow an hour if taking the Webwalk. Alternatively we offer a free MP3 audio tour of the canal towpath.See our podcasts page for details. This section of canal is mainly industrial with plenty of reminders of its history. You may also see the wildlife that thrives on the canal. If you are lucky, you may see a heron fishing! Finish your day on the canals with a visit to London Canal Museum. (allow 1-2 hours). You'll find our why the canal was built and it's fascinating history over more than 180 years. Of course, depending on timings, you can stop for refreshments or a meal at Camden or at King's Cross before or after your museum visit. There are plenty of cafes, pubs, and fast food outlets at both these places. In bad weather use bus 214 instead of the towpath walk. Alternatively, start your day out at the museum. A morning visit can be followed by lunch in a local pub or cafe. Then walk to Camden along the Regent's Canal towpath. At Camden, explore the famous market (weekends) before embarking on a cruise to Little Venice. You can return to Camden by boat as well, if you wish. For information on getting to the museum click the link. Don't forget to check what additional events are on offer at London Canal Museum.

Skippered charter for groups

You can charter one of London's community boats for a group of up to 12 people. A skipper is provided by the operator of the boat. So long as it is practical, your itinerary is for you to decide. Community boats are available for private events and usually offer low-cost hire for community groups and educational purposes. Consider booking Long Tom or Tarporley or one of the other London community boats for your small group trip. For a list of boats see our Community Boats page.

One hire company operates in London, for weekend or longer narrowboat hire. They are Southern Narrowboats , based near Uxbridge.

MAGNA CARTA, an 8-passenger deluxe barge, cruises on the Royal River Thames, England

View Food and Wine

MAGNA CARTA Cruise Stops

Cruise highlights.

• English Cream Tea at the Stafford Hotel, London
• Henley on Thames, Royal regatta town
• Visit Tudor Hampton Court, Henry VIII's palace
• Moor beneath Windsor Castle
• Visit the Stanley Spencer Art gallery
• A fascinating tour of Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college
• Visit the Magna Carta & JFK memorials and the Saville Gardens
• On certain departure dates, visit Highclere Castle, location of the Downton Abbey TV series. Please inquire.

Cruise Features

Video to welcome you aboard MAGNA CARTA

Owner Operated: ​Yes - Captain Dominic Read Number of Passengers: 8 Category: Deluxe Cabin Bookings: Yes Charter Bookings: Yes Cruising Region : Middle Thames River, between Henley and Hampton, England Length of Cruise : 6 nights - Sunday to Saturday Cruising Season : April - October Theme Cruises: Family, Walking, Golf, Tennis, Antiques, Flowers, Christmas, New Year Meeting Location : Stafford Hotel, London

Cruise Rates 2025

Included in cruise price.

• Transportation between London and the barge
• Six nights accommodation in private stateroom with ensuite bath
• All meals, wine and drinks on board
• Daily escorted excursions by air-conditioned van
• All barge amenities including bicycles, music system, library, etc.

Not Included in Cruise Price

• Air or other transportation to the meeting location
• Trip cancellation or medical insurance (available when booking)
• Personal expenses
• A discretionary gratuity for the crew (suggested 5-10% of the cruise price)

MAGNA CARTA Features

Cruising on magna carta, classic england cruise henley on thames to hampton court (or reverse).

Attention Downton Abbey fans ! On select cruises aboard Magna Carta, passengers will have the thrill of touring Highclere Castle, the location where the popular TV series was filmed. For 2017, the cruises are ​April 9, 16 and 30. Check Availability to book your cruise today.

Sunday - Transfer from London to Henley on Thames Guests are met at the Stafford Hotel in London for afternoon English Cream Tea at 15:00, before being transferred to the Magna Carta that's moored along the famous Henley Royal Regatta course. On arrival guests receive a champagne welcome by the Captain and crew. Dinner on board. Monday - Henley on Thames to Hurley This morning we take a 40-minute drive to Oxford for a fascinating tour of Christ Church, Oxford’s grandest college. Unusually, it was founded twice, once by Cardinal Wolsey and then by King Henry VIII. The magnificent surroundings were where Lewis Carrol wrote Alice in Wonderland. After lunch we set sail and cruise the famous Regatta Mile. Here, every year in July rowing teams from around the world compete in front of Champagne and Pimms fueled crowds. We pass through Hambledon Lock, and onwards through stunning countryside to the medieval village of Hurley. We wander through Peter Freebody’s boatyard and watch in wonder as the traditional craftsmen build and restore classic wooden craft as they have for generations. Afterwards we have time to explore the ancient village including Ye Olde Belle, reputed to be the oldest inn in the country before returning to the barge. Dinner on board. Tuesday - Hurley to Cliveden to Cookham ​On select cruises only, we are driven to *Highclere Castle (Downton Abbey). Highclere Castle is one of England's most beautiful Victorian Castles set amidst 1,000 acres of spectacular parkland. The Carnarvon family has lived at Highclere since 1679, and the current Castle stands on the site of an earlier house, which in turn was built on the foundations of the medieval palace owned by the Bishops of Winchester for some 800 years. Longstanding friend of the Carnarvon family, Julian Fellowes had Highclere Castle in mind as he wrote Downton Abbey. He often commented he wanted a house which spectacularly testified to the confidence and soaring optimism of the Edwardian period. After lunch we cruise through Bourne End and Marlow to Cookham followed by a visit to Stanley Spencer’s gallery and a walk around the village. Dinner on board. *The visit to Highclere Castle is only available on limited departures. Please ask at time of booking. Wednesday - Cookham to Windsor We cruise this morning through magnificent scenery into the spectacular Clivedon reach where we have special permission to moor at the house itself. Cliveden was once owned by the Astor family, though the original house dates back to 1666. The gardens are simply amazing and include a Parterre, Chinese water garden and topiary. We discuss the political intrigue and scandal for which Cliveden is famous!! Our afternoon cruise takes us through Maidenhead and Boulters Lock (made famous in Victorian times), past fabulous waterside homes in Bray and down to the heart of Windsor. We enjoy a late afternoon tour of Dorney Court. This very special home has been owned by the Palmer family for more than 450 years passing from father to son through 13 generations. King Henry VIII has stayed here and the manor is regularly used for filming including “Poirot” and “The Other Boleyn Girl” We are lucky to enjoy the house privately. Dinner on board. Thursday - Windsor to Shepperton A morning tour of Windsor Castle. Built by William the Conqueror in 1066 and a royal home for over 900 years, this is the largest inhabited castle in the world. We explore the State Apartments, Queen Mary's Dolls House and St George's Chapel and enjoy the far-reaching views from its elevated fortress position. During lunch we cruise and enjoy breath taking views of the castle and down through the fields of Runnymede. . Here in 1215 King John was forced to meet the powerful barons and seal this historic document, which took away absolute power from the King and later became the basis for the American Bill of Rights .We have the option to moor at Bell Weir Lock adjacent to a luxury spa hotel, where it is possible to visit and use the facilities including pool, sauna and steam room. Beauty therapies, massages and other treatments are available but are best booked in advance. Today’s cruising continues to our secluded overnight mooring near Shepperton. Dinner on board. Friday - Shepperton to Hampton Court Palace After breakfast we spend the entire morning cruising through countryside and the delightful riverside towns and locks of Sunbury and Molesey to our spectacular mooring right outside the gates of Hampton Court Palace. After lunch we visit this magnificent palace, the finest Tudor building in existence. We can wander around King Henry VIII's apartments and the Royal Chapel, feel the chill in the haunted gallery, view Cardinal Wolsey's closet and stroll through the Tudor kitchens. Outside, the gardens are stunning. The Great Vine, the oldest in the world still produces grapes and the world famous maze awaits. Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board. Saturday - Transfer from Hampton Court Palace to London Following breakfast, disembark the barge for your transfer to the designated drop off point in London. This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The itinerary is in reverse direction on alternate weeks.

MAGNA CARTA Barge Cruise Reviews

"The barge and crew are the best we've experienced to date - the entire crew were exceptional. The captain, chef and crew made it most memorable. The cabin accommodations were generous and most comfortable. The excursions were great - we would have liked more time at Oxford. We didn't realize how much we would enjoy cruising down the Thames. We so enjoyed the entire experience - their "package" of barge, itinerary, outstanding food and crew is "spot on."

Beth, your service was excellent, as always! You are one of the best travel people I have ever worked with! Your site is most effective and the quality of the pre-trip information was thorough and helpful. You covered all the bases. I wish you handled other travels beyond barging! Many, many thanks to you, Beth, for arranging such a wonderful barge holiday for us!"

Nancy and Bill S.

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Your Private Canal Boat Hire Kings Cross | London

More Than your regular boat trips Kings Cross | London

London's Best Canal Boat Hire Experience

Embark on an extraordinary journey through London's picturesque canals with The Copper Quay—an unparalleled Canal Boat Hire experience awaits. Our private hire options provide you with the flexibility to craft the ideal round trip, from Kings Cross through Angel or Camden, tailored to any special occasion. With a seasoned captain at the helm, your only task is to unwind, revel in the moment, and savour the voyage. Whether it's a lively hen party, a delightful day out with friends, or a sophisticated corporate event, The Copper Quay stands as the ultimate selection for your memorable Canal Boat Hire escapade in London.

PINK GIN SPRITZ

Soft drinks, gin & tonic, pre-order online or byob, don't just take our word for it, what an amazing experience we booked it as a corporate event and just had the best time. we were well looked after and had a very memorable and pleasurable evening. great way to see london from a different perspective thanks captain yan and team .

~ Sunil Pandit ~

REGENTS CANAL WATERBUS

Discover a unique london WATERWAY with a REGENT’S CANAL WATERBUS boat trip between LITTLE VENICE & CAMDEN MARKET

Our classic one-way Regents Canal Waterbus trips operate in either direction between Camden Market and Little Venice passing through Regents Park, London Zoo and the Maida Vale Tunnel.and each take around 45 minutes

Live English language guided tour commentary. Travel onboard a historic traditional historic narrowboat. Family friendly.

regent’s canal waterbus

Boat trips between little venice & camden market in either direction.

now SAVE 15% on booking a scheduled return trip

Now save 15% on booking a scheduled return trip 〰️ now save 15% on booking a scheduled return trip 〰️.

Our classic one-way Regents Canal Waterbus trips operate in either direction and each take around 45 minutes

You can also book a discounted scheduled return ticket in the same transaction at checkout if you wish to travel both ways. (subject to seat & service availability) when booking - Last services from Little Venice at 16:45 / Camden Market at 17:45

Live English language guided tour commentary

Travel onboard a historic traditional narrowboat

Tickets from £13-17 per passenger including tax/fees

Family Friendly

ABOUT the trip

The Regent’s canal opened in 1820, linking the Grand Union Canal and the River Thames at Limehouse, providing a once vital industrial transport route.

Today the canal has become a leisure corridor navigated by leisure boats and lined with live-aboard houseboats.

Our route travels between Little Venice in Maida Vale and vibrant Camden Town where you’ll find the world-famous Camden Market.

We pass through the grounds of London Zoo and through the echoey depths of the Madia Hill tunnel

Each boat has large slide-to-open windows, so everyone gets a view.

As we pass through the grounds of London Zoo, look out for the African hunting dogs known as painted wolves, which can often be seen as we pass their canal-side enclosure, as well as their warthog neighbours. On the opposite side, you can see the imposing structure of the repurposed Snowdon Aviary which is now part of Monkey Valley, home to playful Colobus monkeys, as a walk through zoo exhibit.

You can see expansive landscaped gardens of stately mansion houses and classic modern villas contrasted with industrial buildings, a power station and historical architecture including ornamental iron bridges such Macclesfield ‘blow up’ bridge.

From modern-day urban graffiti, unique architecture and industrial heritage to landscaped gardens and wildlife, the route gives an insight into the unique mix that forms this part of London .

ACCESSIBILITY Our historic boats are not suitable for wheelchair users, there are several steps into/ out of the boats with handrails. Folding wheelchairs can be carried. We can not carry motorised mobility vehicles. We have priority seating available near to entrance doors

There are no toilets available aboard

Bus style layout seating with no tables

ABOUT booking with us

Book with confidence Flexible bookings with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your booked departure

Booking is recommended to avoid disappointment, as seat availability often sells out in advance, especially at weekends.

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and boarding. Check-in closes 5 minutes before each scheduled departure. The boat will depart promptly at the scheduled departure time.

Camden Market may be busy, particularly at weekends so please allow extra time to reach us.

No refunds will be given for missed departures

Trips are one-way, however, you can also book a separate trip if you wish to return back.

We do not accept oyster cards or the London Pass.

All tickets are sold subject to our Terms & Conditions

Regent’s Canal waterbus services are dog-friendly* subject to our Terms & Conditions

ADULT 17-59 years £17 including processing fee / taxes

CHILD 5-16 years £13 including processing fee / taxes | must be accompanied by an adult/ senior

STUDENT 17+ £13 including processing fee / taxes | must show student photo student ID

SENIOR 60+ years £13 including processing fee / taxes

DISABLED TRAVELLER (without carer) £13 including processing fee / taxes

DISABLED TRAVELLER+ ACCOMPANYING CARER dual accessibility discount 1x registered disabled person plus 1x accompanying carer £16 including processing fee / taxes

Blue Light Card holder / Defense Discount Card holder Adult ticket each adult in group can take benefit from this discount - card holder must show card at check in NOT AVAILABLE FOR WALK UP CUSTOMERS £13 including processing fee / taxes

INFANT 0-4 years FREE must be accompanied by 1x adult per infant advance booked ticket required.

ONE WAY FARES

You can also book a discounted scheduled return ticket in the same transaction if you wish to travel book ways. (subject to seat availability when booking)

Booking fees/taxes will shown and added at checkout

Each passenger requires their own booked ticket (unless purchasing a dual accessibility ticket for a 1x disabled person & 1x accompanying carer).

Where we go to & from: CAMDEN MARKET

1,000+ UNIQUE SHOPS, STALLS, BARS & CAFES. UNFOLLOW CONVENTION AT CAMDEN MARKET.

CAMDEN MARKET IS HOME TO A VAST ARRAY OF SHOPS, TRADERS & INTERNATIONAL CUISINES, CREATIVITY & VIBRANCY TO EXPLORE & ENJOY ACROSS SEVERAL SITES INCLUDING THE STABLES, LOCK MARKET & WEST YARD SET WITHIN COBBLED & FLAGSTONED LANES OF FORMER WAREHOUSES & CONVERTED STABLES THAT IN DAYS-GONE-BY HOUSED BOTH GOODS & THE HORSES THAT PULLED THE LOADED CARGO BOATS ALONG USING ROPES, FROM THE CANAL TOWING PATH ALONGSIDE THE CANAL

YOU MAY BE LUCKY ENOUGH TO CATCH SIGHT OF THE FAMOUS TRADITIONAL TOWN CRIER DRESSED IN HIS RED UNIFORM, WHO REGULARLY SOUNDS HIS BELL AND CAN BE HEARD CALLING OUT AROUND THE MARKET LANES

SEE THE ECLETIC SHOPS OF CAMDEN HIGH STREET & CHALK FARM ROAD WITH THEIR LARGER THAN LIFE GIANT 3D SIGNS QUIRKY STREET PERFORMERS & ALTERNATIVE CULTURES

VISIT CAMDEN MARKET BUCK STREET ECO FOCUSED & SET WITHIN UPCYCLED SHIPPING CONTAINERS

DISCOVER CAMDEN MARKET HAWLEY WHARF ALONGSIDE THE CANAL

SEE THE JASON BRUGES STUDIO HELICOIDAL MIRROR LIGHT INSTALLATION SET BETWEEN THE TWO WATERSIDE HALLS BUILDINGS

OUR TRIPS DEPART & RETURN TO OUR WHARF LOCATED IN THE CENTRE OF CAMDEN MARKET LOCK BETWEEN THE WEST YARD STREET FOOD TRADERS

Where we go to & from: LITTLE VENICE

THIS WEST LONDON WATERSIDE AREA WAS SAID TO BE NAMED BY THE RENOWNED POET ROBERT BROWNING WHERAS OTHERS CREDIT IT TO LORD BRYON

OUR BOATS DEPART FROM BROWNING’S POOL THE LARGE TRANQUIL WATER EXPANSE SURROUNDED BY ELEGANT 19TH CENTURY MANSION HOUSES

ON BROWNING’S ISLAND LOOKOUT FOR THE SWANS, MALLARD DUCKS, GEESE, COOTS & MOORHENS AMONGST THE FEATHERED RESIDENT BIRDS, AS WELL AS THE OCCASIONAL VISITING CORMORANT OR HERON

ASK OUR GUIDE TO TELL YOU ABOUT THE FASCINATING STORIES OF RANDOLPH AVENUE, OR HOW THEY MANAGED TO GET BOATS THROUGH THE MAIDA HILL TUNNEL BEFORE BOATS HAD ENGINES & WERE TOWED BY HORSES

FROM ‘TOERAGS’ TO ‘LEGGING IT’ THE CANAL INTRODUCED UNIQUE TERMINOLOGY THAT HAS BECOME SET INTO THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE. FIND OUT THE BACKSTORIES

TRAVEL PAST THE HOMES OF WELL-KNOWN MUSICIANS, ACTORS & CELEBRITIES ALONG CANALS LINED BY LIVE-ABOARD HOUSEBOATS

LOCAL WATERSIDE RESTAURANTS AT LITTLE VENICE INCLUDE THE SUMMERHOUSE ; THE WATERWAY & CAFE LAVILLE

WALK AROUND TO PADDINGTON BASIN FOR A MODERN CONTRAST: SHELDON SQUARE & PADDINGTON CENTRAL HAVE WATERSIDE CAFES, BARS & RESTAURANTS, INCLUDING SEVERAL ONBOARD MOORED BOATS: THE GRAND DUCHESS; THE CHEESE BARGE ; DARCIE & MAY GREEN . AS WELL AS A COLLECTION OF LARGE PUBLIC ARTWORKS

EXPLORE MERCHANT SQUARE WITH ITS FLOATING POCKET PARK , WATER MAZE FOUNTAINS & STRIKING ARCHITECTURAL GEMS SUCH AS THE NEW BRUNEL BUILDING & HEATHERWICK’S ROLLING BRIDGE

SEE THE MAARTEN BAAS REAL TIME CLOCK AT PADDINGTON STATION

Accessibilty

Our boats all have narrow/ steep entrance steps with handrails., and narrow aisles, so are not wheelchair accessible. We can carry foldable wheelchairs

We cannot carry powered wheelchairs or mobility vehicles

Canal water levels also may change so the step on/off off the boat may increase or decrease

We can carry small foldable pushchairs and strollers (usually on the boat roof or under the front bench seats - please remove all personal items and fold before boarding) Larger prams or multiple seat strollers may be refused.

Small hand luggage may be taken; however large bags and suitcases may be refused.

We cannot carry any cycles, scooters or any powered transport devices.

LONDON WATERBUS COMPANY LIMITED Registered in England 01061531

Registered office: LABS Dockray, 1-7 Dockray Place, London NW1 8QH

We no longer offer trips to or from London Zoo. ZSL closed the waterside entrance in 2019

BOOKINGS CONCIERGE: [email protected] UK GDPR Privacy Policy

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Canal Narrowboat Holidays

Book 2024 and 2025 holidays now with amazing savings, we offer the widest range of canal narrow boats in the uk. search over 2000 canal holiday options and book online at best prices any time.

Cruise the canals around London, moor in historic Bath, Oxford or Chester. Travel from Edinburgh via the stunning Falkirk Wheel. Cross the amazing Pontcysyllte Aqueduct in Wales.

The narrowboat is the modern version of the cargo vessels that travelled the canals before the railways.

Now these boats contain every creature comfort and are available for hire across the UK and in Ireland.

These canal boats have modern kitchens, beds which can be left made up, heating, showers and toilets. They can sleep from 2 to 12 people.

Canal Boat Hire

A canal holiday lets you experience the locks to go up or down hill and travel through exciting tunnels. You can cross aqueducts over valleys and rivers - the most famous is 120 feet above the ground.

At 4 miles per hour a canal narrow boat holiday is often described as 'the fastest way to slow down'.

Widest Choice

On this website there is the widest choice of canal boat holidays in the UK. We offer weekend and midweek breaks, week hire or longer. And all at the boat operator's price.

Search and Book

On our website you can search for a boat by size, by date, by canal route, or by cruise area. Then book online for best prices.

Your Shortlist

As you find boats and routes you like just add them to your Shortlist (Shopping Basket). Review and compare at any time!

For boating holidays in Europe see our Boating Holidays website

Popular routes for narrowboat holidays.

Canal Holidays, Bowers Wharf, Skipton, BD23 2PD, United Kingdom

Boat Trips Little Venice: 4 Ways To Explore The Lovely London Canal

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Little Venice, a tranquil enclave nestled in bustling London, is celebrated for its charming canals, vintage narrowboats, and picturesque waterside cafes.

It also serves as the ideal starting point for a unique experience – a scenic boat trip into the energetic heart of Camden Town.

Here, you’ll experience serene waterways, historical structures, and the vibrant Camden Market .

With a variety of trip options – from short historical rides to private three-hour picnic cruises, or even helming your vessel – there’s the perfect journey for everyone.

So keep reading to learn more about the best boat trips Little Venice has to offer.

The Best Canal Boat Trips in Little Venice, London

London Waterbus Company

The London Waterbus Company’s traditional narrowboats take you from Little Venice to Camden Market, all in a span of 45 minutes.

Meanwhile, an expert guide narrates the captivating history of this area, as you voyage through the grounds of London Zoo and into the echoing depths of the Maida Hill tunnel.

Along this canal boat trip, witness the striking contrast of landscapes – from manicured gardens of stately mansion houses to impressive industrial structures and power stations.

With the canal boats having large slide-to-open windows, every passenger has the perfect view.

Trips are one-way, so reserve separately for a return journey.

Book ahead, especially during the busy summer season and weekends.

Jason’s Trip

Navigate along Regent’s Canal with Jason’s Trip while learning about the fascinating history of this area.

More than a sightseeing tour, it’s a journey through modern British history – brought to life with live commentary.

As you traverse past Edwardian streets, Regents Park’s edge, and London Zoo, hear about tales of the canal, its narrowboats, and their important role during the Industrial Revolution.

From the intriguing ‘Winding Holes’ to the mysterious bridge markings and the famed Macclesfield ‘Blow Up’ bridge, this tour delves deep into the past.

Jason’s Trip offers an authentic experience on a genuine 1906 canal boat and has proudly received TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice award for six consecutive years.

The tour operates daily, with tickets available onboard. Large groups should book ahead.

Canal and River Cruises Ltd

Retreat from city life with a Regent’s Canal boat trip on Lady A – a modern narrowboat offering exclusive private cruises.

Departing from Little Venice, the journey’s course can be customised to fit your preferences.

Whether it’s a party picnic cruise with food and booze, or a romantic trip for two – Lady A aims to deliver a personalised experience, as exciting or intimate as you like.

Lady A is no ordinary narrowboat. Constructed from steel and well-ballasted, the boat is very steady in the water.

With seating in the open air , you’ll have an unobstructed view of London’s waterside wonders.

Reserve your personalised tour online via their website.

Go Boat Paddington

Go Boat lets you captain your own boat for your very own Little Venice to Camden boat trip.

Dictate your own route and duration, from a quick one-hour expedition to a leisurely three-hour exploration.

Begin your voyage at Paddington , and discover the hidden treasures of London’s waterways at your own tempo.

The boats are as eco-friendly as they are accommodating, and perfectly sized for up to eight people.

And don’t worry about speed – a Go Boat chugs along at a comfortable 3 knots (3.5 mph), just right for soaking in the scenery.

In the colder British months, heated seats keep you warm.

Walk-ups are welcome, but it’s best to book in advance, especially during the summer holidays. The premises are open every day from 9:30 am until sunset.

Why is Little Venice called Little Venice?

Little Venice owes its name to its slight similarity to Italy’s Venice – with its intersecting canals and networks of waterways.

Initially a humorous nickname, it eventually stuck, and now the name is used to describe the larger neighbourhood around the canals.

Are boat rides in Little Venice suitable for children?

Yes, boat rides can be an enjoyable and educational experience for children.

Most Little Venice boat tours pass through London Zoo’s riverbank enclosures – with glimpses of wild dogs and monkeys.

They then plunge into the dark depths of Maida Hill tunnel. These are surely exciting experiences for kids of all ages.

Some tours even provide commentary – a great opportunity for children to learn more about nature, history, and the local environment – all while enjoying the ride.

What is the best time to visit Little Venice?

Little Venice is a year-round destination, with each season having its own unique charm.

Spring and summer are particularly lovely when the weather is warm, the trees are in full bloom , and the alfresco dining options come alive.

Outside of summer, the boat trip companies make accommodations. Some provide heated seats for when the weather is cold, and protective sidings for any potential rain .

Some companies run reduced schedules during the winter months – so always check ahead.

What canal runs through Little Venice?

Little Venice is a scenic and serene district in London known for the meeting of Regent’s Canal and the Grand Union Canal.

This junction of canals creates a larger pool of water , giving the area a picturesque charm.

From calming waterways to bustling markets, Little Venice boat trips offer a unique perspective of London’s historic and vibrant canal life.

Whether it’s the historic narratives of Jason’s Trip; the private, customizable cruises of Lady A; or the self-steered journey with Go Boat Paddington; there’s an experience for everyone.

Little Venice’s boat rides, suitable for all ages, provide not only a fun and educational experience but also a unique way to escape the city’s hustle.

So, step aboard and get ready for a boat ride to remember.

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Inside a renovated canal boat on Regent's Canal in London

A love of outdoor adventure led a documentary film-maker to explore a new way of living.

Eager to live in central London near the BBC, where much of his work is generated, film-maker Sam Farmar was looking for a home with outdoor space. However, getting a flat with a balcony is a tall order in central London, where properties are hugely expensive.

A recent job on a remote tropical island, though, led him to consider alternative lifestyles. ‘I was filming the progress of a group of 14 men who were stranded on a remote tropical island. It was a gruelling six weeks in which I had to hunt, forage and starve alongside my fellow castaways as we did our best to survive. I wouldn’t repeat it, but I did learn something about myself; I love living outside.’

That discovery led him to chat to a friend who lived on a canal boat in central London, and her agent helped Sam track down Amaris, a sleek canal boat for sale, moored on Regent’s Canal, just north of London Zoo. ‘It was a hunk of steel, painted white – it looked like a floating fridge,’ was Sam’s first impression. ‘But it was nothing that a new coat of paint couldn’t fix. I found a quiet green from a company that specialises in restoring boats, coaches and tractors.’

Sam soon discovered, to his delight, that buying a boat was as easy as buying a car or a lawn mower. ‘No solicitors’ fees, no stamp duty; just a simple transfer arranged by the Canal and River Trust to put the mooring in my name.'

When he moved in he soon realised just how superb the position of his mooring was. ‘In other places, such as Little Venice, the canal is very narrow. You live cheek by jowl and end up looking directly into your neighbour’s kitchen or bedroom. In Chelsea, the tides and bitter Thames’ wind threaten to strip away the romance, but Amaris is moored on the widest stretch of the Regent’s Canal, where boats are positioned along a private bank.

‘It’s a 10-minute bike ride to the BBC. Green trees surround the moorings, secure gates keep boats relatively safe and Amaris has plenty of outdoor space; a flat roof and two terraces or open decks as they are called – one at the bow and one at the stern.

‘I grow herbs and vegetables in large pots so I feel the benefits of rural living, and of course, when I take off on trips to the country I can land up moored beside a field of cows,’ explains Sam. ‘I feel enormously fortunate to enjoy the best of two worlds – and I believe this is the best boat in London!’

Originally built to host canal-side drinks and dinner parties, it had been just one large space in which the previous owner entertained clients. Sam took on the challenge of turning it into a proper home, installing a bathroom , bedroom and kitchen. With the help of Lance Lawson, a professional joiner and friend, they laid new floors; wide oak boards for the living room space and four tons of hardwood and rubber yacht floor to cover the roof. Then new partitions, central heating, double-glazed windows, shutters and plumbing were installed. Every bit of storage was super-organised, with shelves fixed precisely to fit wine glasses and plate drawers sized as deep as a pile of eight plates, and so on.

‘My design format was simple. Paint walls white; make the most of the space – so all the doors are bifold and handles are recessed. Although nothing is particularly ‘boaty’ in style, the quality and finish are as good as in any high-end yacht, or West End apartment for that matter.’ Sam’s best buy was a desk, which folds out lengthwise to seat eight for dinner. ‘Adaptable pieces are important. I use the long, narrow coffee table as a bench when guests come for dinner.’

For the sitting room, he found a comfortable sofa and armchair, cosy intimate lighting with table lamps and built-in storage space for books, suitcases and clothes. Only two regrets faintly bug him. ‘If I could redo the skylights, I would make sure they were open-able and I’d install a better sound system.’

There’s no chance of feeling alone on his boat. Sam points to a group of excited schoolchildren in canoes paddling past the kitchen window. Next, a water bus full of happy waving tourists takes the corner just missing the starboard. Finally, two men on a punt, one strumming the guitar serenading clients and the other handling the long pole, drift past the sitting room windows. Sam, who clearly enjoys this constant pageantry, remarks: ‘I have decided privacy is an over-rated commodity.’

When the boat sets out on family trips it is often filled with Sam’s seven godchildren, nephews and nieces and friends. Within one week’s holiday, he says, they dished up more than 135 meals. Only once did a woman fall off the boat, ‘but we scooped her to safety.' Otherwise, life continues at a peaceful, friendly pace with the occasional swan gliding past and peering through a window, and at times, a duck or two can be found seated on the rear deck sunning themselves.

A surprising amount of hanging space is available in the bedroom cupboard , which is tucked next to a good-size wet-room. Sam has managed to incorporate the biggest and best showerhead available in here. The compact kitchen is fully equipped with a dishwasher, ovens and hob. Life on a boat in film-director style is in a sybaritic category all of its own. Who needs a flat?

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