Best canal routes for families

Have you got a head for heights? High Life takes you over two sky-high aqueducts as you cruise through the Dee Valley, leaving our Chirk base to head to Llangollen and then back to Ellesmere. This four-night route packs in plenty, and you’ll come away with incredible memories of crossing the famous Pontcysyllte and Chirk aqueducts, and have the chance to stop and enjoy attractions that include Chirk Castle and Ellesmere’s incredible Mere.

Like chocolate? Adventure? Then your family will love Chocs Away. This cruise on the Stourport Ring starts at our Stoke Prior base in Worcestershire and takes you to Cadbury World (hence the name), the National Sealife Centre and Gas Basin in Birmingham city centre. Plus you get to tackle the UK’s longest flight of locks, visit gorgeous National Trust countryside and drift along the River Severn. There are four, seven and 10-night itineraries for you to choose from.

Going Potty is a great starter option for your family. This route combines the Potteries, one of the UK’s most beautiful canals, and a thrilling theme park if you opt for the longer itinerary. Your cruise starts at our Stoke-on-Trent base and follows the Caldon Canal through the Churnet Valley, with a diversion along the Leek Branch where you can stop to catch a bus or taxi to Alton Towers. Choose from our four and seven-night options.

This cruise is a sure fire hit for your family. You can head to amazing Warwick Castle, complete a treasure trail in Birmingham and team up to complete the Stairway to Heaven run of locks. We’ve created short break, week-long and 14-night itineraries that combine countryside and city and lots of brilliant attractions. There are plenty of opportunities for you to stop and explore.