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Why Wiltshire?
Wiltshire is a place to take your camera – it’s a beautifully scenic part of the world. Located in South West England, this is a remarkable historic county with the World Heritage Site of Avebury, market towns such as Bradford-on-Avon, Malmesbury and Devizes, and picturesque villages such as Lacock and Castle Combe.
Canal boat holidays from our hire base at Bradford-upon-Avon suits all levels of experience, with easy short break cruises or more challenging routes for the experienced boater.
Wiltshire Canal boat hire base
The Black Prince canal boat hire base is located in the picturesque town of Bradford on Avon. From here you can enjoy the Kennet & Avon Canal that heads east, or the River Avon that heads east over to Bath and Bristol.
Wiltshire, located in the South West of England, is a county steeped in history and natural beauty. Known for its picturesque countryside, rolling hills, and ancient landmarks, holidays in Wiltshire are popular with both the Brits and with guests from overseas. The county is perhaps most famous for being home to the iconic stone circles of Stonehenge and Avebury, which have fascinated and mystified generations with their enigmatic origins. Stonehenge is approximately 30 miles away from Bradford upon Avon, about a 45 minute drive, so well worth a visit if you have time before or after your canal boat trip.
Favourite local spot: ‘I always tell guests to take their time cruising to Bath, moor up near the 2 aquaducts & take a walk as the views are amazing across the River Avon valley.
This guide was written by Anna, our hire fleet manager at Black Prince Holidays on Kennet & Avon. Anna has been welcoming Black Prince guests to Bradford on Avon for 3 years, helping them discover the best routes, moorings, and hidden gems along the Kennet & Avon Canal.
Popular canal routes in Wiltshire
Wiltshire Holiday Special Offers
Narrowboats available to hire in Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire
We offer a wide range of boats to suit all budgets and requirements, from small two-berth boats to spacious ten-berth boats and our boats are all fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay, including central heating, a kitchen, and a bathroom. We also provide comprehensive training on how to operate your boat, so you can relax and enjoy your holiday without any worries.
Top Attractions in Wiltshire
Bradford upon Avon
Built in a picturesque valley on the edge of the Cotswolds, Bradford on Avon is what we call a ‘chocolate box’ town – a pretty village that is so pretty it could be on the cover of an old fashioned sweet box! You’ll need your camera here to take photos of the quaint English cottages made from local Bath stone, the narrow historic streets and the market stalls on market day. There is also a plethora of independent retailers and small shops. The River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal both run through the town, which is surrounded by glorious green countryside, making this a lovely place to stay if you enjoy walking or cycling.
Devizes
Devizes is an historic town that oozes character, with buildings dating back to the 16th century. Of all the things to do in Devizes we’d probably recommend Wadworth’s Brewery – an independent business where ales may be sampled at their visitor centre. Wiltshire holidays would not be complete without a sample of the local brew!
The Caen Hill flight
Definitely not for the faint-hearted! This set of 29 locks leading up to Devizes along the Kennet and Avon Canal was a major engineering feat when built at the end of the 18th century. You’ll enjoy a great view once you reach the top!
The Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Museum
Handily located on the Wharf overlooking the canal at Devizes, the Kennet and Avon Canal Museum tells the tale of the construction, operation, closure and restoration of the canal.
Nearby Attractions
Bristol
Bristol is the home town of such disparate characters as John Cabot, Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Cary Grant. It’s a fantastic city to explore, full of atmospheric passages and corners, alleyways and stairways as befits a former sea-trading port. One of the best places to visit in Bristol is the vibrant harborside area. Here, you can stroll along the picturesque waterfront, take in the views of colorful boats bobbing in the harbor, and visit a variety of attractions. The SS Great Britain, designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is a must-see maritime museum and historic ship that offers an immersive glimpse into Victorian-era travel. Nearby, the M Shed museum showcases Bristol’s rich history, including its role in the slave trade and the birth of trip-hop music. Additionally, you can explore the buzzing Harbourside Market, sample delicious street food, and enjoy a wide range of cultural events and festivals that often take place in this dynamic area.
Bath
Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the only place in the UK where you can bathe in naturally hot spa water and original roman style baths. Dating back many centuries, you’ll want to check out the Pump Room and Assembly rooms made famous by Jane Austin, as well as the Roman Bath museum.
Canal boat hire in Wiltshire allows you the freedom to cruise to these fantastic cities and visit within easy walking distance of the canal.
All Wiltshire Attractions
Bath
You can moor close enough to wander into one of Britain’s most elegant cities. Bath wears its Georgian architecture with style, and even a short stroll gives you a sense of its past glamour. The Roman Baths are the headline attraction, but simply walking the crescents and squares is a treat in itself. A couple of hours is plenty to admire the stonework, take a coffee in a pavement café, and feel just a little more refined before heading back to the water.
Bradford-on-Avon
Built in a valley on the edge of the Cotswolds, Bradford-on-Avon looks every inch the English market town. Stone cottages, narrow streets and riverside walks all add to the charm, with plenty of independent shops and cafés to dip into. The canal and the River Avon run side by side here, and the countryside around makes it a fine stop for walkers and cyclists.
Bristol
Bristol grew on sea trade, and the harbourside is still the city’s most atmospheric area. The SS Great Britain, Brunel’s Victorian steamship, is the standout attraction, while the M Shed museum and harbourside market add variety. Beyond the docks, Bristol’s steep streets and historic corners make it one of the most rewarding cities to explore from the water.
Caen Hill Flight
Approaching Devizes, the Caen Hill flight is one of the most famous lock runs in the country. Built at the end of the 18th century, the 29 locks lift boats dramatically up the hillside. It’s hard work, but the views from the top are worth the effort, and it’s a stretch every boater remembers.
Devizes
Devizes has a strong historic core, with buildings dating back to the 16th century. The Wadworth Brewery is the star attraction for many visitors, with its visitor centre and a chance to sample the local brew. If you don’t wish to tackle the Caen Hill Flight, then moor at the bottom and enjoy a walk up to the town.
Kennet & Avon Canal Trust Museum
Overlooking the canal in Devizes Wharf, this small museum explains the history of the Kennet & Avon Canal, from construction through decline to restoration. It’s a compact but informative stop, perfect for understanding the route you’re cruising.
Canals and rivers to cruise from Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire
RIVER AVON
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Coventry Canal
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Forth and Clyde Canal
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Built in the late eighteenth century and quickly becoming the main transport route from the midlands to the south of England, this meandering canal cuts through some of the prettiest countrysides in England.
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Trent and Mersey Canal
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