Oxford, Lechlade & Return

Lechlade is located on the southern edge of the beautifully scenic Cotswolds and a canal boat holiday from Lower Heyford along the South Oxford Canal to this pretty market town is a great route for a week-long narrowboat holiday. If you’re looking for a Lechlade boat hire then this is a great way to experience the waterways of the area.

Heading south on the South Oxford Canal from Lower Heyford, you will cruise through farmland to the pretty village of Thrupp, with a selection of pubs and an award-winning tea room nearby. Take in the world-famous Blenheim Palace – just a short taxi ride away.

Continue cruising south to the moorings close to Isis lock for an easy walk into Oxford- the City of Dreaming Spires. Join the River Thames (a licence will be required and can be purchased from the lock, roughly £80 for one week). Head north on the River Thames passing the outskirts of Wytham Great Wood, onwards through scenic open countryside and under the oldest bridge on the River Thames – an impressive triple-arched 13th Century stone bridge.

Continue through beautiful countryside to the pristine village of Kelmscott, meandering on to the market town of Lechlade. Take a stroll around this idyllic Cotswold town with its excellent antique shops, or sample one of the many pubs and cafés before making the return journey.

Suggested routes from this base

Short routes from this base