river boat trips uk

Inland boating holidays

Take your very own behind-the-scenes tour of britain, passing slowly through the english countryside, and into the heart of some of our best loved towns and cities, our holidays, great british boating offers a range of canal boat holidays on the 2,000 miles of britain’s inland waterways, with all of the information you need to plan and make the most of your time. you can adventure at your own pace along our recommended routes, watching out for wildlife and stopping to enjoy traditional pubs, tea rooms and country walks, as well as exciting historic attractions and cultural events., our peaceful canals and rivers offer a great way to relax and discover britain from a unique perspective. choose from hundreds of top quality boats offering all the comforts of home, and all operated by established canal boat holiday companies..

Our canal boat hire operators offer a range of holidays from each starting point.

Short breaks are three-night weekends or four night mid-week holidays. They are great for beginners, providing the chance to get a taste of life afloat on Britain’s inland waterways.

One week holidays provide seven nights away, starting on a Friday or a Saturday.  A week afloat offers the chance to travel further and explore more waterside attractions.

Longer holidays can be 10-days, two weeks or even longer.  These holidays offer the chance to travel round some of the larger circuits, taking in a wide range of landscapes and destinations.

To find out more about the different holiday options available, please use our interactive map below.

Please use the Key to the left of the map to view recommended Attractions and Places of Interest

Northern Region

From the quiet remoteness of the leeds & liverpool canal where it crosses the pennines, to the regenerated waterfronts of exciting cities like manchester, leeds and liverpool, britain’s northern waterways offer canal boat holiday makers a fantastic choice of routes with many iconic canal structures..

Central Region

From peaceful country villages with historic local pubs, to some of britain’s best-loved towns and cities with world famous attractions like shakespeare’s stratford and warwick castle, our central waterways offer the chance to see the heart of england from a unique perspective..

Southern Region

From the majesty of the royal river thames to the peaceful countryside of the kennet & avon canal, the waterways of southern england offer narrowboat holiday-makers the chance to enjoy some of britain’s best loved countryside, as well visit iconic cities like world heritage status bath and oxford..

A DAY OUT ON A CANAL BOAT WITH DRIFTERS BOATING HOLIDAYS

Drifters is offering the chance to win a day afloat, worth up to £189!

You can enter our FREE competition here.

Things you need to know

Great british boating offers information and advice to help you decide on the right boat, departure point and journey for you., operating locks.

It’s easy to learn how to steer a narrowboat and operate the locks. You don’t need a licence and all our narrowboat hire operators provide expert tuition and detailed pre-arrival information.

Easy Access

Great British Boating offers the choice of over 40 canal boat hire departure points, and most are located within a reasonable train or taxi ride from an international airport. Transfers can easily be arranged.

Things to see & do

From quiet country pubs and village churches, to exciting historic attractions where history and culture come to life, you’ll find plenty of places to visit on your canal journey.

Warwick Castle and River Avon

This jaw-dropping castle on the banks of the river avon is almost certainly britain’s greatest medieval experience, along with over 1,000 years of fascinating history to explore. map.

Royal Shakespeare Theatre

This magnificent 1,040 seat theatre on the banks of the river avon in the heart of stratford-upon-avon, is dedicated to the famous english playwright and poet william shakespeare. map.

Walk the Heart of England Way

This popular and scenic 160 km walk which takes you through the english midlands, meets the grand union canal at the navigation inn, lapworth, next to kingswood bridge. map.

Worcester Cathedral and River Severn

Overlooking the river severn, with royal tombs, medieval cloisters and magnificent victorian stained glass, this is one of england’s most famous and iconic cathedrals. map, testimonials, take a look at what some of our customers say about their holidays with us., the stratford canal, leonard, utrecht. nl.

To sum up, we had a great week on the boat, with our captain (my wife) receiving praise at several moments from other more experienced boaters and the crew receiving offers to be hired by other captains 😉

The Warwickshire Ring

Elizabeth, wiesbaden, germany.

Their boat was excellent value, and when we needed help, they responded immediately. The staff were friendly and thoughtful, and they were completely dedicated to making sure that our holiday continued without a hitch

THE WARWICKSHIRE RING

Catherine m, saskatoon, canada.

It was a great adventure as we went through over 20 locks. Stopped in many villages to eat in the pubs. Took a bus to Warwick Castle and Stratford

Great British Boating Holidays is brought to you by Drifters Waterways Holidays .

Want to get started? 

Start planning your trip., find your perfect holiday with great british boating. simply select your preferred start location and date and click on “check availability”. , you can further refine your search by selecting holiday length and berths ., or you can book directly now by calling us on:,  +44 (0) 1252 796 402.

The charity making life better by water

Making life better by water

Don't fancy driving yourself? Let one of the many boat trips around our waterways take the strain.

If you're unsure about taking the controls, take advantage of the many short boat trips based at picturesque spots along our waterways.

Some of our museums and attractions even offer you the chance to go back in time and enjoy a voyage on a horse-drawn narrowboat.

Our most popular boat trips

National waterway museum.

Jump aboard our boat trip at Ellesmere Port and be transported back 200 years

Anderton Boat Lift

Our boat trip takes you up, or down, in the lift, so you can see it in all its working glory

Standedge Visitor Centre

Journey into darkness on a boat trip through Standedge's famous tunnel

There's lots going on along your local canal or river. Find information on boat hire, plus events and activities

Last Edited: 11 September 2024

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PREFER A SELF DRIVE BOAT?

Choose from hundreds of hotel boat cruises on our canals and rivers, hotelboat holidays.

Skippered hotel boat canal and river cruises in the UK are just the ideal way to relax! It’s easy to plan & book your perfect hotel boat UK river cruise or canal cruise. Read more

The Hotel boats & Crews

On your hotel boat you have your own skipper and crew. We have details and links to help you compare the different hotel boats & cruises. Read more

Hotel boat canal and river cruise UK

Hotelboat cruises cover almost all of the English, Welsh, and Scottish canals and rivers.

See where each hotelboat will cruise in the coming year Read more

So why choose a Hotelboat Cruise?

Because it’s a perfect antidote to busy jobs, frenetic tourism, crowded airports, and also a wonderful way to enjoy the countryside!

You have your own skipper and crew who really know our canals and rivers, their waterway heritage and their unique natural environment. They also understand how to keep you comfortable, happy and well-fed on great home-cooked local fare!

You may be floating at a leisurely pace through the hidden countryside or sampling the local beers in a canalside pub. You could practice a favourite hobby like painting or bird-watching, help out with locks and swing bridges, or keep fit by jogging towpaths and lanes. Or you could just treat yourself to a little well-earned relaxation with a piece of homemade cake and that favourite book!

Booking your hotel boat canal and river cruises in the UK

Hotel boat Cruising is very popular; many guests return year after year to explore a different area of our beautiful canals and rivers. Consequently, many cruises are already heavily booked before the end of the previous season. We recommend booking as early as possible to ensure you get the canal cruise and the route you want.

Our Canal and River Cruise pages show which boats are planning to cruise which canals and rivers.

During the cruising season, we will show which Late Booking cabins are still available.

21 best canal boat trips in the UK

Watching the world go by from a narrowboat or barge may not be the fastest way to travel, but it’s a wonderful way to discover some of the UK’s most beautiful and interesting landscapes. Rolling countryside, quaint market towns, historic mill villages and UNESCO-listed industrial heritage – along with some truly cutting-edge modern additions to the canal network; you can see it all when you take these canal boat trips on Britain’s amazing inland waterways.

• Northern England
• Central England
• Southern England

Canal boat holidays

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Canal boat trips in northern England

Standedge tunnel, west yorkshire.

Let’s start this list of the best canal trips with something truly extraordinary. Standedge Tunnel, on the Huddersfield Narrow Canal is the longest, highest, deepest canal tunnel in the UK, and you can take a guided canal boat trip inside its astonishing depths.

Boat trips into the Standedge Tunnel start from Tunnel End near the village of Marsden in West Yorkshire. They’re operated, like a few of the boat tours on this list, by the Canal and River Trust , a charity which looks after 2000 miles of inland waterways in England and Wales.

After your 30-minute journey into the tunnel, you can explore a small museum which describes the arduous building of the tunnel in the late 18th century, its decline when the railways came, how it was abandoned for decades and was finally brought back to life in 2001 thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers.

Read more about visiting Standedge Tunnel

Skipton, North Yorkshire

Skipton is a gorgeous market town at the gateway to the Yorkshire Dales. The Leeds and Liverpool canal arrived in Skipton in 1773, carrying coal, cloth and other cargo across the country from the ports at Liverpool and Hull (via the Aire and Calder Navigation).

Skipton is surrounded by beautiful rolling countryside, and gliding through it on a canal boat trip is the perfect way to see it. From Skipton’s pretty marina in the centre of town, you can take a 1 hour trip to discover the canal, or 2 hour trips to enjoy an afternoon tea on the water.

If you’re thinking you might like to skipper your own boat for a canal boat holiday, a day cruise on the wide, lock-free stretch of the Leeds and Liverpool canal south of Skipton is a good place to perfect your skills. There’s even a handily-placed canalside pub for lunch.

The team at Skipton Boat Trips will give you all the tuition you need to take the helm of your hire boat with confidence, even if you’re a complete novice. If you love it, you can hire a boat for a short break canal holiday or a full week or more, depending on how many miles of waterways you want to explore.

Saltaire, West Yorkshire

15 miles south east of Skipton on the Leeds and Liverpool canal, you’ll find Saltaire. Saltaire is a picturesque model village built by Sir Titus Salt to house the workers from his enormous mill in hygienic, morally sound and intellectually improving surroundings.

Salts Mill and the village surrounding it are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of my favourite places to visit; the mill now holds an art gallery, interesting shops (including the most amazing bookshop) and cafes. Across the river, there’s a lovely park, and down on the canal you can buy ice creams from a barge and take 30-minute boat trips on the narrowboat Titus . Trips run from the end of March to the end of October.

Read more: visiting Salts Mill and Saltaire

Manchester owes a lot of its existence to canals. Canals allowed Manchester’s industrialists to bring raw materials into the city, along with coal to power the machines that would turn raw cotton into finished cloth.

At first, products were transported out of Manchester by barge on the Bridgewater Canal or later by rail, but this didn’t provide enough capacity for Manchester’s factories and mills.

This all changed when the Manchester Ship Canal opened in 1894, providing a wide channel all the way to the sea at Liverpool. Manchester became Britain’s 3rd busiest port, despite being 40 miles from the sea.

Taking a guided canal boat trip is a great way to understand the history of Manchester. Boat trips run along the Manchester Ship Canal and the navigable parts of the River Irwell, passing Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium, Imperial War Museum North and the Lowry, plus the old Pomona docks. You can book your Manchester river and canal tour here .

Burscough, Lancashire

After the drama of the route across the Pennines, the Leeds and Liverpool canal spends its last few miles before arriving in Liverpool meandering across the west Lancashire landscape. This part of northern England is full of small towns and huge skies, and spending a couple of hours on the water is the perfect way to see it.

Lancashire Canal Cruises operate two cruises from Burscough, a small town near Ormskirk and Southport.

Ashton under Lyne, Greater Manchester

Ashton under Lyne is just to the east of Manchester, and the town’s Portland canal basin marks the point where the Huddersfield Narrow Canal and the Peak Forest Canal meet and the Ashton Canal begins its journey to Manchester city centre.

The 1800s canal warehouse at Portland Basin has been turned into a lively family museum with recreations of a 1920s street and the interior of a normal family home. There are also exhibitions on the history of Ashton’s three canals. Outside the museum, the Tameside Canal Boat Trust operate seasonal trips on the Ashton Canal on their narrowboat Still Waters .

Northwich, Cheshire

Together with the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland, the Anderton Boat Lift is one of the most impressive sights on Britain’s canal network and is the world’s oldest working boat lift. The boat lift was built in 1875 to lift cargo boats 15 metres up in the air from the River Weaver to the Trent and Mersey Canal and is still operational today.

You can experience the “cathedral of the canals” for yourself with a canal boat trip on the Edwin Clark , named after the engineer who built this amazing structure. The Anderton Boat Lift is having some refurbishment work done at the moment but boat trips are expected to resume after Easter 2023.

Ellesmere Port, Cheshire

The transhipment dock at Ellesmere Port, where the River Mersey, Manchester Ship Canal and Shropshire Union Canal all meet, used to be a noisy, bustling spot at the height of the Industrial Revolution, but it’s now a peaceful spot for a family day out. The warehouse is now home to one of the Canal and River Trust’s three museums. The museum is a fascinating place to visit, with regularly-changing exhibitions, special events and themed “Canal Sundays” during the summer months.

Wirral Community Narrowboat Trust run occasional canal boat trips from the National Waterways Museum at Ellesmere Port. If there’s a group of you, you might want to hire one of their barges and skippers for a longer trip – they have a range of full day and short day options from £125, some of which stop off at canalside pubs for lunch.

Canal boat trips in central England

Cromford, derbyshire.

Cromford is a village on the edge of the Peak District and home to one of the great wonders of the industrial revolution, the huge Cromford Mills complex. Built in 1771 by the inventor and industrialist Sir Richard Arkwright, Cromford Mills was the first successful water-powered cotton spinning mill.

Like Sir Titus Salt in Saltaire, Arkwright built a village to house his workers, and today Cromford is a lovely place to visit, with shops, cafes, a large mill pond and quaint streets. The UNESCO-listed mill has a museum about the mills, plus craft workshops and more shops and cafes.

The 14.5 mile long Cromford Canal was critical to the success of Arkwright’s mills, but it also carried people! An enterprising man named Nathaniel Wheatcroft started the first “fly” boat service from here, carrying passengers to Nottingham twice a week.

Boat trips from Cromford Basin run on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays and take a 2 hour route from Cromford Wharf to Leawood Pumphouse and back on board the narrowboat Birdswood . There’s also an occasional option for a premium cruise which includes refreshments and a guided tour of the historic places to visit along the route, including Leawood Pumphouse and High Peak Junction, where you can see the oldest extant railway workshop in the world. You can book both the regular and the premium tour on the Friends of Cromford Canal’s website .

Lincoln, Lincolnshire

The oldest canal in Britain is the Fosse Dyke Canal, which was built by the Romans to link Lincoln to the River Trent, and from there to the North Sea. Lincoln is a beautiful cathedral city, and spending a relaxing hour on this historic canal is a lovely way to see the wider area.

You can take a guided boat trip along the Fosse Dyke on the Brayford Belle which operates between Easter and October each year. The Brayford Belle has two decks, the lower one with central heating and the upper one with outside seating and a fantastic view.

Birmingham famously has more miles of canals than Venice or Amsterdam – over 35 miles of them. The canals arrived in Birmingham in 1768, and grew to a peak of 160 miles of canal across the city. Canals were essential to fuel Birmingham’s growth during the industrial revolution, bringing in raw materials and coal, and sending out finished goods.

You can explore Birmingham’s history by taking a canal boat trip with Brindley Cruises or Sherborne Wharf . Routes cover part of the original James Brindley Canal, a section of Telford’s New Main Line (revolutionary for its time) and Gas Street Basin. If you’re visiting Birmingham at Christmas, you can even take a “Search for Santa” canal trip.

Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire

The Stratford-upon-Avon canal runs from the outskirts of Birmingham to the heart of historic Stratford, Shakespeare’s home town. The canal was built to transport coal from the Midlands down to Oxford and London, without needing to use the network through Birmingham. The route was near-derelict by the 1930s, but was rescued thanks to the efforts of the Inland Waterways Association, the National Trust and local volunteers.

Today, the 25 miles of the Stratford-upon-Avon canal is navigable again and visitors to Stratford can take 40 minute canal boat tours along the canal and the River Avon . Stratford’s resident swans often follow the boat, and there’s a good chance you’ll also see tufted ducks, herons, coots and perhaps a kingfisher too.

Dudley, West Midlands

Just as at Standedge, the main attraction for canal boat trips in Dudley is going underground. The Dudley Tunnel is the UK’s second-longest tunnel, but unlike Standedge, it isn’t continuous and instead emerges at points into canal basins.

The rock in this area is particularly rich in fossils and other geological features. The area was once heavily mined for its limestone, creating amazing caverns that the boat trip passes through. One of these, named the Singing Cavern, is even available for weddings!

Canal boat trips into Dudley Tunnel are run by the Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust . You can just turn up for the regular 45 minute trips or book online for longer trips. While you’re in the area, don’t miss a visit to the nearby Black Country Living Museum , which has a canal area featuring a collection of historic boats.

Banbury, Oxfordshire

The Oxford Canal meanders 78 miles from just north of Coventry, down through Rugby and Banbury and on until it meets the River Thames at Oxford.

While there are lots of river cruises on offer in Oxford itself, you’ll need to go to Banbury for canal boat trips on the Oxford Canal, unless you want a self-drive boat. Tooleys Boatyard Trust in Banbury offer regular, 40-minute canal boat trips on their day boat the Dancing Duck . Their Facebook page is the best place to check for boat trip times and dates.

Cotswolds, Gloucestershire

The Cotswolds are more famous these days for picturesque villages and trickling streams in a rolling, rural landscape, but there are canals here too. The Stroudwater Navigation opened in 1779 to link Stroud to the River Severn and from there to the sea. Ten years later, the Thames and Severn Canal opened, extending the route to the River Thames at Lechlade and providing a cross-country route.

Both the Stroudwater Navigation and the Thames and Severn Canal fell into decline, with sections being filled in, but the Cotswolds Canal Trust have worked tirelessly to bring parts back into use. It’s expected that the Stroudwater Navigation will join up with the national waterways network again in 2025.

The Cotswolds Canal Trust run canal boat trips on the navigable parts of the Stroudwater Navigation at the Saul visitor centre, Ebley Wharf and the Wallbridge Lock visitor centre. At Lechlade, you can take a boat trip on the River Thames from St John’s Lock to see the start of the old Thames and Severn Canal.

Canal boat trips in southern England

The Regent’s Canal in London is an 8.6-mile link between the Grand Union Canal near Paddington Station to the Limehouse Basin and River Thames near Canary Wharf.

The canal weaves its way prettily through some of North London’s most attractive and interesting areas, including Little Venice, Regent’s Park, Camden Town and the Coal Drops Yard area of Kings Cross.

Canal boat trips on the Regent’s Canal tend to run between Little Venice and Camden Town. On a tour with the London Waterbus Company you’ll be entertained by a commentary, which points out key sights along the route, including London Zoo, Maida Hill Tunnel and the homes of the rich and famous.

Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire

The Kennet and Avon Canal is one of the UK canal network’s most popular waterways. Stretching from the Bristol channel, through the beautiful city of Bath then on through Devizes, Hungerford, Newbury to the Thames at Reading, it’s an outstanding route, passing through quintessentially English countryside.

One of the most beautiful towns on the Kennet and Avon is Bradford-on-Avon. Bradford-on-Avon is 10 miles from Bath and the tow paths are a popular walk between the two. At Bradford-on-Avon you can take a canal boat trip on the impressively large Barbara McLellan , a 65ft wide-beam boat that seats 40 and is operated by the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust.

From Bradford-on-Avon, the Barbara McLellan sails west to Avoncliff Aqueduct and east to Widbrook winding hole. There are also a range of themed cruises throughout the season.

The Kennet and Avon Canal Trust have four other boats along the canal and also offer canal boat trips in Devizes , Hungerford , Newbury and Reading .

Canal boat trips in Wales

Llangollen, denbighshire.

The Llangollen Canal in North Wales is one of the most scenic canal trips in the UK, but you’ll need a good head for heights! The amazing Pontcysyllte Aqueduct soars over the valley of the River Dee and is the longest and highest canal aqueduct in the world. It was designed by the famous engineer Thomas Telford, who was also involved in building Standedge Tunnel.

You can walk along the tow path to see the view from the aqueduct, but for the full Pontcysyllte experience, complete with checking out the sheer drop from the side of the boat on the canal side, Llangollen Wharf offer both motor and horse-drawn canal trips over the aqueduct.

The 5 mile route can be done in either direction, starting at Llangollen or Froncysyllte (near the aqueduct). The journey takes two hours; for an extra cost you can enjoy afternoon tea onboard. At the end of the trip, a courtesy bus will take you back to where you started.

Brecon, Powys

The peaceful Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal (also known as the Mon and Brec) is one of the UK’s most scenic routes. 35 miles are currently navigable, and many of those are within the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Things weren’t always so quiet and serene around here though; the canal transported coal, stone and iron ore from the Welsh hillsides down to the iron works at Blaenavon (now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage site ) and other industrial sites in the area. Cruising along the canal today you can still see traces of its heritage including wharves and lime kilns.

If you’re visiting this lovely part of Wales, Dragonfly Cruises have public canal boat trips departing from Brecon canal basin and including a journey over the Brynich Aqueduct which takes the Mon and Brec over the River Usk. They can also provide a skipper and guide for a canal trip through the area’s picturesque villages.

Canal boat trips in Scotland

Inverness, highlands.

The Caledonian Canal runs for 60 miles across Scotland, from Inverness to Corpach near Fort William, connecting the lochs of the Great Glen; Loch Dochfour, Loch Ness, Loch Oich and Loch Lochy. The man-made connections between the lochs were built by Thomas Telford and opened in the early 19th century.

You can take a combined cruise of the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness by joining a boat trip at Dochgarroch Lock. The trip will take you through the locks and on to Loch Douchfour, past the old Bona Lighthouse and into Loch Ness as far as Urquhart Castle. You can book online through online ticket seller Get Your Guide .

The Falkirk Wheel is one of the most impressive feats of engineering on the whole UK canal network. Opened in 2002, the Wheel is a rotating boat lift, the only one of its kind in the world. It connects the Forth and Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.

The best way to see the Falkirk Wheel is to take a spin on it. Canal boat trips on the Falkirk Wheel take around 50 minutes. First you’ll go into the canal basin, then enter the Wheel’s gondola, ready to be lifted into the air as the Wheel rotates.

At the top, you’ll sail along the aqueduct, through the Roughcastle Tunnel and to the start of the Union Canal. The boat will turn round and take you back to the Wheel for another spin, this time back down to the canal basin.

If day trips aren’t enough for you, there are lots of companies offering canal boat hire, either to stay put and use the boat as a base, or to explore the UK’s miles of navigable waterways at your own pace on a narrow boat holiday.

VRBO has narrow boats, house boats and barges for rent with all the comforts of home, while specialist hire firms like Waterways Holidays have canal boat hire across the country. There are lots of local companies as well; if you’re interested in a particular starting point, you might like to talk to a local specialist who can advise you on canal routes and the best places of interest to see along the way.

Have you taken one of these canal boat trips, or have I missed out your favourite? Let me know in the comments.

Related posts

If you enjoyed this post, you might find these other posts interesting:

• Visiting Jodrell Bank, the UNESCO-listed radio telescope near Manchester
• 5 of my favourite heritage railways you can take a ride on
• Things to do in Whitby, a historic fishing town on the Yorkshire coast
• Visiting Thermae Bath Spa, the UK’s only naturally-heated thermal bath

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2 thoughts on “21 best canal boat trips in the UK”

A Great shame you did not include The Horse-Drawn Barge in Tiverton Devon as it is now one of the last Horse-Drawn Barges in Great Britain and operates Trips along the very beautiful Grand Western Canal.

Thanks Philip, that sounds amazing, I’ll have to check it out next time I’m in the south west 🙂

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River Trips & Wildlife Experiences from Upstreet Nr Canterbury

2024 Season

The plan for 2024 is to continue running river trips and wildlife experiences, we’ll stick to what we know. We prefer that all trips are pre-booked (Wildlife experiences must be pre booked), this is easy with our proven online booking system, however, we can still accept some spontaneous walk-ins if space allows.

If you are unable to book online, email or call us and we will assist in making a booking for you.

The main news is that despite the rise in the cost of everything we are not increasing our prices, but will hold them at 2022 levels for at least 2024

There are links above to all the relevant details but if you have any question Contact Us .

Wildlife video

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Scheduled Trips 2024

Scheduled trips run hourly from 1200 till early evening. weather and river conditions permitting…. final decision on all trips rests with the skipper..

Pulteney Cruisers Ltd

We are running two boats everyday, open top boat tours of the river avon at bath, we will be operating every day subject to river and weather conditions. timetable is below of our operating times., no pre-bookings taken unless for private hire - just jump aboard and pay on the boat, welcome to pulteney cruisers.

Pulteney Cruisers are the longest established boat tour operator in Bath. We have been running boat trips from Pulteney weir in the centre of Bath for over 50 years.

Our boats each seat 70 people & have a cafe on board. There is a sundeck or heated cabin depending on the weather.

We offer a scenic hour’s cruise up the River Avon to the village of Bathampton on our twin decked boats. The trip passes under the historic Pulteney Bridge & out into the beautiful Avon valley. There is an abundance of wildlife to see on the river including swans, herons, kingfishers & for the lucky few, otters!

On the way upstream the crew serve hot & cold drinks from the galley & on the return journey of each cruise there is a fascinating live commentary on the history, architecture & points of interest on the Avon.

We no longer stop at Bathampton.

2024 Timetable

• We dock 20 minutes prior for boarding
• 1 Hour Round Trip
• Departing from Pulteney Weir
• Check our Facebook page for daily running status

Please note:

Boats will be running when the river level will allow us to, if we have had a lot of rainfall this makes the river rise and therefore makes river conditions too dangerous to operate. 

If the green board is at Pulteney Weir we will be operating.

For any extra info needed email: [email protected]

Boat Departure Point

Pulteney weir bath, bridge street bath ba2 4at.

Unfortunately we are no longer stopping at Bathampton. We understand for many people this is very disappointing. This is for many reasons.

Prices for 2024

Afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea £18 per person (additional boat fare to be paid on board the boat) 

Homemade scones with jam and cream 

Sandwiches and rolls – cheese and pickle, ham and mustard, free range egg.

Minimum 2 persons- to be booked in advance. 

Private Hire

Private parties/weddings to the boatman restaurant, private hire for a one hour round trip.

• £550.00 Weekends Private hire is only available to parties wishing to board at Pulteney Bridge

Please Note

No seats can be reserved in advance, we operate on a first come first served basis unless you are to hire the boat exclusively (bookable in advance).

The timetable stated is the times the boat departs.

The boat is ready for boarding 20 minutes before the departure time.

Those that are first in the queue will be able to board the boat first.

Pushchairs and mobility scooters must be folded and cannot be taken on the top deck of the boat. Crew are happy to help those with limited mobility aboard but cannot physically lift passengers.

Well behaved dogs are welcome.

We do no allow customers to bring their own drinks aboard, we have a bar which we offer hot and cold drinks and snacks from.

WE DO NO ACCEPT LARGE GROUPS ON THE WEEKEND.

We cannot take large groups of passengers  on boat tours without hiring the whole boat. Please email to reserve the whole boat. This applies to any large group including students and school groups.

Please check Pulteney Cruisers Facebook site for information on any trips not running due to being hired privately.

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Come and jump onboard – no need to book. We sail from Pulteney Weir, accessed from the Pulteney Bridge steps.

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Oxford River Cruises

A trip with Oxford River Cruises is so much more than a boat ride. It’s a time to see life through a pleasurable lens. Enjoy stunning scenery and experience the beauty of nature. Float away on a tranquil, sightseeing river experience and immerse yourself in the unique serenity of Oxford.

Oxford Experience Cruise

This popular sightseeing tour offers a lively display of all that the river has to offer.

Afternoon Tea Cruise

Float away down the river whilst enjoying afternoon tea. A truly memorable experience.

Cruise & Dine

Experience a taste of river life with our wonderful partner restaurant The Folly.

Picnic Cruise

Enjoy a freshly made picnic hamper whilst on a beautiful, leisurely 3 hour boat trip.

Evening Cocktail Cruise

Capture the beauty of an Oxford evening accompanied by delicious cocktails.

Cruise & Tasting

A relaxing river trip followed by a spectacular 6-course tasting menu in The Folly.

“Thank you for such an enjoyable day. There cannot be a better way to experience Oxford than being guided through the beautiful sights by your knowledgeable and helpful skippers while enjoying the most delicious food. We loved it.”

NICOLA DOCKING, LIVERPOOL

RIVER CRUISES

Experience tranquillity with Oxford River Cruises. Glide down the river on one of our elegant boats and enjoy great food and beautiful views. Whether you’re looking to explore, indulge or relax, we have a luxury river cruise to suit you.

PRIVATE BOAT HIRE

Create unforgettable memories with a unique experience tailored to your needs. We offer bespoke options or celebration packages. Explore our options for skippered boat hire.

READY FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE?

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Boats Search

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Boating Holidays in the UK

We offer the widest range of boating holidays in the UK. There are over 1000 hire boats available - almost all with online availability.

Cruiser Boat Holidays on UK waterways

We have self-drive cruiser boats and canal narrowboats available on the rivers and canals of England, Scotland and Wales.

The cruiser boat has been a feature of the UK rivers for many years. Its design allows a considerable degree of comfort and facilities. Many boats have either inside and outside steering or central steering with a sliding canopy.

Cruise past Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace on your way along the Royal River Thames between west London and Oxford. River Thames guide .

Further north in Scotland explore the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness between Inverness and Fort William. Perhaps search for the famous monster! Caledonian Canal guide .

UK Canal Holidays on traditional narrowboats

The distinctive UK canal narrowboat is just over 2 metres wide. These traditional craft have been updated to offer a full range of features and comforts including microwaves, DVD, and en-suite cabins.

The canals join most of the major towns of England, travelling through rural countryside, historic towns and the UK industrial heritage. Once used for transport of goods, they are now almost exclusively used for holiday boating.

See some of the UK's most visited towns by canal - Oxford and its University and colleges, Bath's historic Pump Room and famous Georgian crescents, Chester and its famous arcades, Shakespeare's Stratford on Avon, Edinburgh and the Royal Mile.

Moor your boat near Regent's Park in London or stop in the refurbished centre of Birmingham or the busy heart of Manchester. Cross the famous aqueduct at Llangollen or the Pennines to Yorkshire.

Check out our UK Canal Holidays website for online availability and more info.

Route Information

Call us on : 01756 701200 (+44 1756 701200)

Boating Holidays, Bowers Wharf, Skipton, BD23 2PD, United Kingdom

Blue Water Holidays

Blue water holidays is the uk’s leading specialist in small ship cruising, boating and touring holidays..

Based in the picturesque market town of Skipton in the Yorkshire Dales, our team of friendly experts has been booking the right holidays for our discerning customers for over 17 years, offering a wealth of experience and knowledge to ensure customers get the best value for money.

As the UK’s leading agents for all major river cruise lines and small ship, luxury and sailing cruises, we offer unique cruises and exclusive discounts. Visit our award-winning websites to find thousands of cruises, the latest special offers, unbiased advice, customer cruise reviews, detailed deck plans and images for thousands of river and small ships.

Our Escorted Tours website features the most comprehensive collection of guided tours from the world’s leading companies. We offer a fantastic range of tours including small groups, solo travellers, family adventures, cruise tours and rail journeys.

We also offer the best collection of self-drive boating holidays in the UK and Europe, with thousands of boating holidays available from bases all over the UK, France, Portugal, Canada, Ireland, Holland, Italy, Germany and Poland.

Inspirational Journeys Brochure

Exclusive Southern Africa Safari Cruise

Spectacular Journeys Brochure 2025 and Exclusive Blue Water Discounts!

ABTA and ATOL bonded for your protection, you can trust Blue Water Holidays to find and book your ideal small ship or river cruise holiday. Call us on 01756 701199 ( +44 1756 701199 from outside the UK) to embark on your cruise experience!

The Foreign & Commonwealth Office issues advice to UK travellers on destinations, including information on passports, visas, health, safety and security and more. Please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

River Guide

Explore London with our free map and a Hop-on Hop-off ticket!

Start planning

Get your tickets now

Travel across London

From all-day passes to one way tickets, travel by boat and enjoy the views!

Illuminated River Boat Tour

Our Illuminated River Official Boat Tours are returning 21 September and will run every Saturday from Tower Pier.

Sail home after a show at The O2

New dates available! On select event nights, sail back into town with us right after the show ends!

River and cable car

Experience London from the sky and the river with our joint tickets with IFS Cloud Cable Car!

Commute by river

Sit back, sail through rush hour and arrive stress-free. Flexible ticketing options available while season tickets offer you the best value for money

Jokes ahoy! Join our comedy night

Get ready to Laugh on the Thames with our first-ever River Bus Comedy Night! Top comedians swap the small screen for the Thames on 4 October, 8 November and 5 December.

Make the summer feeling last

 Back to school and to work but the summer isn't over just yet! We've put together a list of the best things to do in London along the Thames this September that will make you feel like you're still on holidays.

Visit our online merch shop!

Purchase some of your favourite merchandise from our range and have it delivered anywhere in the UK!

Tell us how we did!

If you’ve travelled with us recently, let us know how it went with this quick customer survey.

Looking for day out inspiration?

London is a big city... With so many options on where to go, it can be hard to decide. Luckily for you, we've done the hard work already! Head to our blog to see our recommendations on places to explore along the Thames.

Travel tools

Ticket information, service alerts.

Guaranteed seat

Comfortable seats in climate controlled cabins or enjoy the fresh air on the outside back deck. 

Café bar

A whole range of refreshments are available from the onboard café bar.

Bikes permitted

Bring your bike on board at no extra charge. We can currently carry up to 14 bikes on our largest vessels. Pets are also welcome.

There are toilets with accessible facilities on board most of the fleet. Our larger boats also have baby changing tables.

Save time and money, download the Thames Clippers Tickets app. Buy season tickets and flexible ticket carnets.

London by river

Kids go free!

Go on an adventure with the kids. Travelling by river is a great way for families to explore London differently. They will love being on the back deck! With a Family Hop-on Hop-off ticket, kids go free. 

Enjoy the café bar

Sip, snack and sail! Refreshments are available at our onboard café bar from hot drinks to alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Make special occasions extra special

Add a touch of luxury to your events with our high speed vessel Orion Clipper from VIP transfers, to birthdays and excurions with family or friends.

Accessible travel across London 

Boat accessibility information.

All our boats are wheelchair, mobility scooter and pram accessible by ramp. All boats, except Star, Storm and Sky Clipper, have accessible toilets and larger boats have baby changing tables.

All our piers are step-free and wheelchair accessible except for Cadogan, London Bridge City and Wandsworth Riverside Quarter piers.

Mobility scooter owners are welcome on board but need first to apply for our Mobility Scooter Recognition Scheme .

You can bring your guide or assistance dog on board for free.

Any person with a valid Disabled I.D. badge/card, will get 50% off ticket fares and a complimentary ticket for their carer.

Latest service updates

For the most up to date information on our services please follow   @thamesclippers on X (formerly known as Twitter). You can also find live departure information at the piers or on the Thames Clippers Tickets app.

"I would just like to say, you do an amazing job, always helpful, friendly. Provide an amazing service."

Thames River Cruises 

Uber Boat by Thames Clippers is the fastest, most frequent and reliable fleet on the River Thames - carrying over 4 million passengers last year. Unlike most other forms of public transport, we are always reliable - the only days our river boats don’t run are Christmas and Boxing Day.

Thames River Boats 

Our Thames river boats are fully equipped with comfortable seating and plenty of space. Our larger river boats all have licenced on-board bars, with a range of coffees, snacks and alcoholic drinks. They all have toilet facilities, and some even have baby changing facilities. Our Thames river buses have Metro and City AM newspapers available on board and Free Wi-Fi is available at our main piers. The experience of travelling through London on a Thames river bus is unlike any other form of travel, providing an epic experience for its users. Far more enjoyable than struggling for space on a packed London Underground tube, quicker than driving or getting the bus, and less exhausting than walking or riding your bike!

Our History 

Starting in 1999 with just one boat in operation, our fleet has grown exponentially to 20 high-speed Thames river boats, offering services from all major London piers every 10-20 minutes. Our services cater for everyone from early morning commuters to night-time passengers. There are countless reasons to choose a London River Bus over any other form of transport – choose a Thames river cruise next time you need to travel through London.

• +44 (0) 20 3778 0700
• [email protected]
• Manage My Booking

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• ACCESSIBILITY
• LONDON JOURNEY PLANNER
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• THAMES HISTORY

Sightseeing At Its Best

Explore london with thames river sightseeing.

Make the most of your adventure! Join our local skippers and friendly team for an unforgettable Thames River cruise.

THAMES RIVER CRUISE TICKETS

Tickets & packages.

• Thames River Sightseeing Cruise Ticket

Westminster to Greenwich

Travel from Westminster to Greenwich and enjoy beautiful views over London’s famous landmarks with our River Thames Sightseeing cruise.

Westminster to Tower Bridge (Butler's Wharf Pier)

See the best of beautiful London from the waters on this  Thames River Sightseeing cruise, from Westminster to  Tower Bridge.

2 Day River Pass | Hop On Hop Off

Our 2-day hop-on and hop-off Thames River Sightseeing ticket is the best way to explore London from the water – with unlimited river travel over two consecutive days to enjoy at your own pace.

Tower Bridge (Butler's Wharf) to Westminster

Climb aboard our sightseeing cruise at Tower Bridge (Butler’s Wharf Pier) and head to Westminster.

THAMES RIVER SIGHTSEEING

Featured Attractions

There’s so much to see when you’re on your Thames River Sightseeing cruise that you’re bound to find at least one place you’ll want to visit. Explore iconic landmarks like the Houses of Parliament, the London Eye, Shakespeare’s Globe, the Shard, & more!

• Closest Pier: Bankside Pier

TOWER OF LONDON

• Closest Pier: Greenwich Pier

ROYAL OBSERVATORY

Shakespeare's globe, st. paul's cathedral.

• BEAUTIFUL VIEWS
• EXPERT CREW

Are you a group of 15 or more? Book now and get 15% off your tickets. Please select a cruise below and the discount will automatically be applied for group bookings of at least 15 people.

Select a cruise for your group and get 15% off your tickets when check out.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Our common answer to your common questions. Didn’t see what you are looking for? Click the button below to read all our FAQs.

The Thames is a chock-a-block full of London landmarks, including the iconic Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and Cutty Sark, as well as modern attractions like the London Eye and the Shard. Rest assured your skipper will point out all the points of interest in an entertaining and informative commentary.

• Westminster Pier, Victoria Embankment, London, SW1A 2JH
• Embankment Pier, Victoria Embankment, London, WC2N 6NU
• Festival Pier, Riverside Walk, London, SE1 9PX
• Bankside Pier, Bankside, London, SE1 9PD
• Tower Bridge Quay, St Katharine Docks, 50 St Katharine’s Way, London E1W 1LA
• Greenwich Pier, King William Walk, London, SE10 9HT

• +44 (0) 20 3778 700
• [email protected]

The definitive guide to Royal Windsor UK.

French Brothers Boat Trips

French Brothers have been operating riverboats on the Thames since 1978. They have grown to become one of the largest passenger boat operators in the UK & now have a fleet of 13 large boats with capacities of up to 180 passengers.

French Brothers offer a huge range of public boat trips & special events along the Upper Thames. These include round trips as well as trips between riverside towns.

Trips are available from:

Windsor – Runnymede – Maidenhead – Staines – Chertsey – Hampton Court

Windsor Castle

Where to Stay

Where to Eat

The Windsor 40 minute trip is one of our most popular. Departing regularly from Windsor Promenade.

This is our most wheelchair friendly trip and really popular with young kids.

A great way to travel to Windsor by avoiding the traffic, returning back to Maidenhead in the afternoon.

This includes an option for a Cream Tea Hamper for advanced online bookings, which is very popular.

Arrive in Windsor by river in time for lunch with a peaceful cruise back in the afternoon.

Runnymede to Hampton Court Service, calling at Staines upon Thames, Chertsey Lock and Sunbury Lock.

www.frenchbrothers.co.uk

Tel:  01753 851900, email:   [email protected].

• What's On
• On Board Events
• Boat to Old Trafford
• Private Hire
• Help - Manchester River Cruises

City River Tours

Boarding point.

Under the white and blue footbridge by the Lowry Theatre.

Hop aboard the Princess Katherine for one of our boat trips around the Salford Quays and Manchester Ship Canal. This 60 min river tour gives you an insight into the history of the area and a unique view of Manchester including Media City, Old Trafford and the disused dry docks.

Salford Quays is quickly becoming a must do on the list of Manchester’s place to be with the Imperial War Museum, Lowry Arts Theatre, BBC & Granada studios as well as the Lowry Outlet and a host of bars and restaurants it’s the perfect place to spend the day.

Tea and coffee is available on all our sightseeing boat trips, or you can choose something stronger from the fully stocked bar while you cruise along the waterway.

All tickets are round trip from Salford Quays and the trips include English commentary about the history of the Manchester Ship Canal and the surrounding area.

• Old Trafford Football Ground
• Stephenson’s 1830 Bridge
• Mode Wheel Locks
• Fully stocked bar serving teas, coffees or something stronger
• Outside seating available on first come first served basis
• Purpose built Dutch style sightseeing boat
• Tickets available on board or by clicking "Book Now"

For other times and availability please see the booking calendar

Ralli Quay is currently closed.

Accessibility

The Princess Katherine does not have disabled access. There is one step up and four steps down in order to board the vessel.

The Princess Katherine is fully heated, and equipped with an onboard licenced bar and two toilets.

The Princess Katherine has inside booth seating for up to six to a table, and outside seating on the top deck. Seating is on a first come first served basis we do not allocate seats.

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the trip.

The closest parking is at the Quayside Shopping Centre - Parking

The closest tram stop is at Media City, the closest parking is at the Quayside Shopping centre. The boarding point can be found under the Millennium Footbridge just by the Lowry Theatre. Some details can be found here

If you need help with bookings you can either call or email us. You may find the information you need on our Help Page .

• Phone +44 161 960 0534
• Email [email protected]

You may also like

Cruise with father christmas, back to the 90’s, pirates & mermaids cruise, adele - hello from the water, boat tropicana, dolly cruise, swinging on the river, explore with us, manchester's premier river & canal tour company.

A family built business with a heritage of working the waterways of Manchester stretching back over a hundred years, our local knowledge will help you make the most of any tour.

• Our Vessels - Manchester River Cruises
• About Us - Manchester River Cruises

We’re very social

Suffolk River Trips

The river alde, river ore and river deben form some of the most beautiful river systems in suffolk., trips run from april to end of october., join us on board one of our river trip boats from orford quay , snape maltings quay or woodbridge town steps to experience and learn more about these areas which are abundant and rich in both wildlife and history., river trips from orford quay.

Depart from the town quay at Orford on board Tilly or Kitty and head downriver on our one hour round trip with commentary, circumnavigating the RSPB reserve at Havergate Island en route. This part of the river is very unspoilt and a haven for wildlife. For the keen birdwatchers you can expect to see Curlew, Avocet, Godwit, Terns, Sandpiper and many other species. You may also see members of the resident population of harbour seals at the entrance to the Butley river.

On the seaward side of the river, Orford Ness is a fascinating, secret place. It has played an important role in our nation’s military history and many of the buildings erected during the Cold War period are still there. We will provide more of an insight into the significance of this historical area as we cruise past.

Tickets cost £15 for adults, and £9 for children (14 years and under).

Tilly and Kitty can each take up to 12 people per trip, and trips will last approximately 1hr. Dogs are welcome on all of our river trips.

Click the Book Now button for the trip calendar and times.

River trips from Snape Maltings Quay

Depart from the historic Snape Maltings Quay, where generations of Thames Barge skippers have plied their trade, hop aboard Tilly Too or Hagar and head out through the narrows down towards Iken Cliff.

The round trip of about 45 minutes gives you the chance to explore this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty from the river Alde, abundant with wildlife that changes with the seasons and stunning views across the mudflats and the reeds. For the keen birdwatchers we are now also running a shallow draft launch Hagar to enable us to get out at lower states of the tide when there are more wading birds around.

Please note that the river Alde is tidal, and so the times of the trips will vary from day to day.

Tickets cost £15 for adults, and £9 for children ( 14 years and under ).

Tilly Too can take 12 people per trip, Hagar 10 people per trip. Trips will last approximately 45 minutes. Dogs are welcome on all of our river trips.

Click the Book Now button for the trip calendar and times (the button will take you to the Snape Maltings website).

River trips from Woodbridge Town Steps

Depart from Woodbridge Town Steps on board Gina and explore the upper reaches of the beautiful river Deben.

The round trip of about 45 minutes will take you downstream beyond Kyson Point and back through Loders Cut, towards Wilford Bridge, giving you a sailors view of the picturesque town of Woodbridge and passing the historic site of Sutton Hoo en route.

For the keen birdwatchers keep your eyes peeled for Curlew, Godwit, Turnstone, Tern, Kingfisher and many other species.

Please note that the river Deben is tidal, so the times of the trips will vary from day to day.

Gina can take up to 12 people per trip, and trips will last approximately 45 minutes. Dogs are welcome on all of our river trips.

Get in touch with Suffolk River Trips

Email: [email protected]

Mobile: 07793 307337

Wareham Quay River Cruises

Hear the colourful history of Saxon Wareham with a 40 minute river cruise. Travel up stream, under the bridge for the nature and down river to Redclyffe. Learn which famous king was buried here, who built our castle, what a Drowns man was and much more.

Cruises are a maximum of 40 minutes long and generally running once an hour. The trip starts and finishes at Wareham Quay.

Boat trips start at 10.30 or 11.30 with trips hourly. Please note that the River Frome is affected by tides so timings of the trips may change. Please call to check time of first trip. Tickets can also be purchased from our kiosk at Wareham quay on a weekend

Find out more about Wareham’s river at Visit Wareham

Quay, Wareham, BH20 4LT

07838 267802

Places to visit nearby!

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Plan an unforgettable special event for 2024

Private charter, sail away with us on the river dee, sightseeing cruises, rock the boat with themed party cruises, party nights afloat, welcome aboard.

We are ChesterBoat, a family-owned company with over forty years’ experience of welcoming visitors  to the beautiful River Dee in Chester.

Find us on The Groves daily for Half-hour City Cruises , or from May to September you can take a leisurely cruise through the Duke of Westminster’s Eaton Estate on the Two-hour Iron Bridge Cruise . Or really push the boat out in the summer months with a private picnic boat hire for up to 8 people.

For an unforgettable night on the water, private charters and Party Nights Afloat are a great way to celebrate special occasions. Plus we don’t stop when the nights draw in – set sail after dark in December on our Christmas Party Cruises .

Browse the What’s On calendar below for some river cruise inspiration. If you need any help choosing the perfect cruise for you, just get in touch and we would be happy to help.

What's on ?

Thursday 12th september.

Half-hour City Cruise

Step aboard this short cruise for a new view of Chester. From The Groves near the city centre we will…

Two-hour Iron Bridge Cruise

You'll have plenty of time to relax with a drink from the bar on this leisurely sightseeing cruise. We'll leave…

The Boating Station Souters Lane, The Groves Chester, CH1 1SZ United Kingdom

4 September, 2024

Boat hire on the thames: luxurious cruises for unforgettable experiences.

Boat hire on the Thames with Woods’ Silver Fleet offers a uniquely luxurious way to explore London’s most iconic river. Our fleet of stunning, modern vessels is designed for private charters, offering bespoke experiences for corporate events, weddings, and celebrations. With exceptional service and elegant interiors, we craft unforgettable journeys on the Thames.

Our fleet navigates the heart of London, offering bespoke experiences from the Houses of Parliament to the Thames Barrier. Each journey is tailored to your needs, whether it’s a corporate gathering or an elegant wedding reception . Enjoy stunning views of London’s landmarks aboard our beautifully appointed boats, where every detail is crafted to perfection.

Woods’ Silver Fleet specialises in luxury private charters on the Thames , offering an unparalleled way to celebrate special occasions. Our routes showcase London’s most iconic sights, from Tower Bridge to Canary Wharf, providing a sophisticated backdrop for any event. With a commitment to excellence, we create bespoke experiences that are as unique as your vision.

The Allure of the Thames

Boat hire on the Thames with Woods’ Silver Fleet offers an elegant way to explore London’s iconic river. Our fleet provides a luxurious setting, whether you’re hosting a corporate event, a wedding, or a special celebration. The River Thames, with its historic landmarks like Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, sets the stage for an unforgettable experience, blending the rich heritage of London with the exclusivity of a private charter.

Imagine gliding past London’s most iconic landmarks, such as Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament, aboard one of our elegant vessels. With our Thames boat hire, we offer an unparalleled view of the city’s splendours, allowing you to experience London from a unique and luxurious perspective. Our cruises provide an exclusive vantage point, perfect for capturing the essence of the city while enjoying world-class service and amenities.

The Thames offers an unparalleled setting for any event, combining timeless elegance with the vibrancy of London’s riverbanks. Whether it’s a refined business function or a lavish wedding , our bespoke Thames boat hire services ensure every detail is handled with the utmost care and sophistication. From customisable décor to tailored menus , we craft experiences that reflect the grandeur and exclusivity of this historic river.

Our fleet of luxury vessels caters to a variety of events, from intimate dinners to large-scale celebrations . Picture a summer soirée aboard our meticulously appointed decks, where every element—from bespoke décor to exquisite catering—is crafted to perfection. Woods’ Silver Fleet combines the romance of the Thames with the magic of London, delivering an unforgettable experience that captures the true essence of sophistication and luxury.

While our focus is on providing luxury private charters, the Thames itself offers a wealth of scenic beauty and historic landmarks to explore. Our cruises allow you to experience London’s iconic river in style, with each voyage tailored to your specific desires. Whether it’s a brief afternoon cruise or an all-day affair, we ensure that every journey along the Thames is a testament to elegance, exclusivity, and unforgettable moments.

Allow us to share the allure of the Thames with you, turning moments into cherished memories aboard our luxurious vessels.

Understanding Boat Hire on the Thames

Boat hire on the Thames with Woods’ Silver Fleet provides an exclusive and refined way to experience London’s historic river. Our luxury fleet is ideal for bespoke private events, combining exceptional service with stunning views of the city’s landmarks. We guide you through every detail, from choosing the perfect vessel to curating your bespoke experience, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey on the Thames

Types of Boats Available

Our fleet includes an array of luxurious vessels designed to cater to every kind of event. From our beautifully appointed Silver Sturgeon to the versatile Silver Barracuda , each boat offers a unique setting for your occasion. Whether it’s a stylish corporate gathering or an intimate wedding reception, our boats provide elegant spaces with options for dining, dancing, and celebrating on the Thames.

Every vessel is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring your comfort and pleasure as we sail past London’s most iconic sights. We specialise in private charters , offering a personalised experience that reflects the sophistication of Woods’ Silver Fleet.

Assessing Quality and Safety

At Woods’ Silver Fleet, your safety and satisfaction are our utmost priorities. Our fleet is meticulously maintained to the highest standards, with each vessel fully equipped with all necessary safety equipment, including life jackets and fire safety measures. Our professional crew is dedicated to providing exceptional service, ensuring every detail is attended to with the greatest care. Our reputation for excellence is built on decades of experience, and we take pride in delivering memorable and flawless experiences on the Thames. Every event with us is not only luxurious but also conducted with a commitment to safety and quality.

Booking and Availability

Booking your Thames boat hire with Woods’ Silver Fleet is a simple and personalised process. We recommend securing your preferred date well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability of our sought-after vessels.

Our team is on hand to assist with every aspect of your booking, from planning bespoke catering to arranging entertainment that complements your event. We provide tailored packages that cater to your specific needs, with clear communication and transparency regarding all booking details. Trust us to manage your event with precision and elegance, turning your vision into a stunning reality on the River Thames.

Exquisite Fleet Selection

We take pride in our exquisite fleet that caters to discerning tastes, featuring exclusively modern vessels that provide a luxurious experience on the River Thames . Our collection is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards, ensuring every journey embodies sophistication and elegance.

Iconic Vessels

Our fleet features the Silver Sturgeon , a flagship vessel with a contemporary design, ideal for grand events on the Thames. The Silver Barracuda offers a mid-century aesthetic, perfect for exclusive gatherings, combining timeless elegance with modern amenities. Each vessel is designed to deliver a memorable experience that reflects the luxury and heritage of Woods’ Silver Fleet.

Bespoke Experiences

We understand that every event is unique, and our offerings are tailored to suit your specific needs. Our boat hire on the Thames provides a stunning backdrop for corporate functions , weddings, and private parties, with customisable options that ensure each event is as distinctive as our clients.

Luxurious Amenities

All of our boats come equipped with state-of-the-art facilities:

Tailored Experiences

From private celebrations to corporate events , our fleet is designed to offer bespoke services:

• Custom décor
• Advanced music systems
• Gourmet catering

Booking Details

Booking with us is seamless and straightforward. We offer clear pricing and tailored packages designed to fit your specific requirements, ensuring a stress-free planning process. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering an exceptional experience from the initial booking to the final disembarkation, making your event on the Thames truly unforgettable. Explore our luxurious fleet and let us help you create unforgettable memories on the River Thames. With our dedication to excellence and attention to detail, we promise an event that exceeds all expectations.

Exclusive Destinations Along the Thames

Our private charters offer a unique way to explore London’s most prestigious locations along the Thames. From the historic sights of Westminster to the modern marvels of Canary Wharf, our bespoke cruises provide a sophisticated backdrop for any event. Experience the allure of the Thames with Woods’ Silver Fleet, where every detail is tailored to create an extraordinary experience.

Let Woods’ Silver Fleet create an unforgettable experience on the Thames. Our bespoke charters provide a unique way to explore London’s river, with customised routes and tailored services designed to reflect your vision. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, we offer an exceptional level of luxury and sophistication on the water.

Exclusive Embarkation Points

We operate from exclusive embarkation points along the Thames, providing a touch of elegance and convenience for our clients. Our luxury vessels are available for private hire, offering an extraordinary way to experience London’s river with bespoke routes and tailored services.

Tailored Boating Events on the Thames

We offers exclusive private charters on the Thames, providing a luxurious and private setting for your event. Our bespoke services ensure that every detail is personalised to reflect your vision, from custom décor to tailored menus, creating an unforgettable experience on London’s iconic river.

Fleet Options

Our fleet of luxury vessels caters to a range of group sizes and preferences, offering bespoke customisation options to suit your event. From corporate gatherings to private celebrations, Woods’ Silver Fleet provides a refined and exclusive setting for your journey on the Thames.

Quality and Attention to Detail

We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and attention to detail. From gourmet catering to bespoke décor, every aspect of your event is meticulously planned and executed to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience on the Thames.

Event Types

We accommodate a variety of events:

• Private parties
• Corporate events
• Anniversaries

For an unparalleled experience on the Thames, consider our expertly managed luxury cruises . The stunning London skyline serves as a perfect backdrop, enhancing the magic of your special day.

In summary, our bespoke services on the River Thames are designed to make any event extraordinary. With a focus on elegance and exclusivity, we ensure every event is memorable.

More posts to read

12th September 2024

Party boat thames: exclusive cruises for memorable celebrations, 4th september 2024.

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