Festive fun on the cut

Christmas markets, festive activities and where to moor when visiting

A family with a dog is on a canal boat, carefully maintained like a prized dinghy, adorned with Christmas garland as they glide past a large decorated Christmas tree.

You can’t beat cruising the UK’s inland waterways at different times of year to experience the charms of the different seasons. With an endless variety of experiences waiting around each bend, the magic of canal cruising lies in its ability to deliver something new every time, making every journey a unique adventure. From the bustling Christmas markets to tranquil winter canal scenes, the view from the cut is ever-changing, and we can’t think of anywhere we’d rather be! We always look forward to the festive season, and planning our routes to combine cruising with festive events and Christmas markets. Here are some of our favourites:

Birmingham

Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of Germany and Austria, and certainly one of the most famous in the UK having been crowned best Christmas market in the UK in 2023. There are over 80 stalls of gifts, food, and mulled wine in Victoria Square and New Street.

What else to do whilst you’re there in Birmingham:

Explore the Christmas Craft Market in Cathedral Square, enjoy ice skating at the Ice Rink & Big Wheel, and visit the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery for festive exhibitions. If you need a break from all things festive, the National Sea Life Centre and the Library of Birmingham known for its modern architecture and panoramic city views, are both close by.

Where to moor:

Perfectly positioned to access the city’s many leisure and cultural attractions, Gas Street Basin is within walking distance for all your needs

Manchester

Manchester’s Christmas markets are spread across several locations in the city, with Albert Square being the heart of it all. Enjoy a variety of European foods, crafts, and seasonal gifts.

What else to do whilst you’re there in Manchester:

Don’t miss the Christmas lights in Piccadilly Gardens and explore the Winter Gardens at the Manchester Cathedral. Nearby attractions include the Science and Industry Museum and the iconic John Rylands Library. The lively Northern Quarter, known for its quirky cafes and street art, is also a short walk away.

Where to moor:

You can moor at Castlefield Basin, which is walking distance to the city centre.

Stratford-upon-avon

Stratford-upon-Avon’s Victorian Christmas Market is a must-see event, with its old-fashioned atmosphere, costumed stallholders, festive entertainment and street performances.

What else to do whilst you’re there in Stratford-upon-Avon:

Visit the Royal Shakespeare Company for a seasonal performance, and enjoy the festive lights along Henley Street, where Shakespeare’s Birthplace is located. If there is still time, why not visit Shakespeare’s New Place, Hall’s Croft or take a winter walk along the beautiful River Avon.

Where to moor:

Overnight mooring is available for free at Bancroft Basin or chargeable at the Stratford upon Avon Recreation Ground Moorings (not flood safe).

Bath

Bath’s Christmas Market, with over 150 wooden chalets offering crafts, food, and holiday gifts, is one of the most picturesque in the UK, and is set in the city’s beautiful Georgian streets.

What else to do whilst you’re in Bath:

Bath’s Abbey Quarter is beautifully adorned with festive lights, and the Abbey itself hosts carol concerts and festive services. Visit the nearby Thermae Bath Spa for a warm, relaxing bath, even in winter. Also within walking distance are the Roman Baths, and the Jane Austen Centre, which offers a festive twist with its Christmas events. If you’re up for a stroll, the Canal River Trust have put together a brilliant audio trail of a two mile circular walk along the canal in Bath, which takes in the beautiful Sydney Gardens.

Where to moor:

There is plenty of visitor mooring available in the city centre, on the Kennet & Avon Canal. For more information, visit the CRT Bath locks web page.

Warwick

Warwick’s Victorian Evening and Christmas market transforms the town with Victorian-themed stalls, street entertainers, and a lantern procession.

What else to do whilst you’re in Warwick:

Explore the illuminated displays at Warwick Castle during its “Christmas at the Castle” event, featuring a light trail, carols, and festive entertainment. If time allows, a visit to the Lord Leycester Hospital offers a glimpse into medieval Warwick.

Where to moor:

The Saltisford Canal Trust offers visitor moorings with electric hook up and drinking water, and it’s only a 10 minute walk to Warwick town centre.

This illustration features a penguin inside a hanging round ornament, with a simple black and white design reminiscent of the stark contrast seen during dinghy maintenance on icy waters.

Winter cruising means colder temperatures and shorter days, so ensure your narrowboat is well-equipped for heating and check canal stoppages or winter closures in advance on the Canal & River Trust website Notices and stoppages | Canal & River Trust

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+44 (0)1732 223 650
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