Three of England's greatest rivers combine with idyllic, rural canals to make the South West a waterway world well worth exploring. The River Severn is Britain's longest, boasting the famous Severn Bore - an occasional "tidal wave" that attracts surfers and onlookers in their thousands. Passing the great cathedral city of Gloucester and its historic docks, the Severn is a truly world-class waterway. The River Wye was one of the greatest tourist attractions of the Victorian Age, and with good reason. Stunning views, beautiful woodland scenery and great waterside pubs make this a scenic marvel without compare. And for a really well-kept secret, seek out the Cotswold Canals. Closed to boats for many years, you can discover the evocative ruins of the majestic Sapperton Tunnel, and marvel at the volunteer work that is now bringing these beautiful waterways back to life.
All of the operators below offer quality assessed boat accommodation:
Anglowelsh Boats
Sydney Wharf
Bathwick Hill
Bath
BA2 4EL
Tel: 01225 447 276
Rating: 3-4 Stars
Anglowelsh Boats
Dundas Enterprises
Brass Knocker Basin
Monkton Combe
Bath
BA2 7JD
Tel: 01225 722 292 - 0774 865 4202
Rating: 2-3 Stars
Napton Narrowboats
Napton Marina
Stockton
Southam
CV47 8HX
Tel: 01926 813644
Rating: 3-4 Stars
Wood Owl Hotel Narrowboats
Traze-An-Pen
Sithney
Helston
Cornwall
TR13 0RN
Tel: 01326 563554
Email: mikeandjenny@woodowl.co.uk
Website: www.woodowl.co.uk
Rating: 3 Stars
70 feet owner operated hotel narrow boat, carrying four passengers in one double and two single en-suite cabins.
Alvechurch Boat Centres Ltd
Hilperton Marina
Hammond Way
Trowbridge, Wilts
BA14 8RS
Tel: 08708 352525 (Overseas +44 1905 734168)
Email: enquiries@alvechurch.com
Website: www.alvechurch.com
Rating: 3-5 Stars
Relax and unwind with a boating holiday on the recently restored Avon Canal from Hilperton marina. Travel west to Bradford on Avon, Bath & Bristol or cruise east through the magnificent Caen Hill lock flight to Devizes and beyond.
Sally Boats Ltd
Bradford on Avon Marina
Trowbridge Road
Bradford on Avon
BA15 1UD
Tel: 01225 864923
Rating: 2-4 Stars