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Routes
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From Northampton to Peterborough the River Nene slowly winds its way though some of the most tranquil scenery in the UK. It is a true hidden gem among Britain's waterways. Together with the Middle Levels, Great Ouse, Little Ouse, Cam and Wissey - the Eastern Rivers make up a network that many canal users never see.
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Short Break – 3/4 days
Visit Fotheringhay and see the remains of the castle where Mary Queen of Scots ended her days. Take a trip on the Nene Valley Railway at Wansford or visit Ferry Meadows country park. Peterborough city centre with its magnificent Cathedral and plentiful shops provides good moorings and an ideal turning point. Water and other facilities are available on the embankment. |
Short Break – 3/4 days
Pass through delightful villages such as Wadenhoe, Islip and Denford . Around Thrapston, the river changes in both nature and name and becomes known locally as "The Nen" (no longer pronounced "Neen"). The village of Woodford is well worth a visit, you can moor just below the church. Wellingborough is a good place to turn. You can fill up with water and visit the supermarket prior to your homeward journey. |
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1 Week
Dog in a Doublet lock is the end of navigation on the river but your journey can continue into the Middle Levels via Stanground lock, with miles of navigable drainage channels that serve the fenlands of Cambridgeshire and Norfolk. Many Fenland towns and villages along the way and lots of different lodes and creeks to explore – a map is recommended! |
1 Week
Beyond Wellingborough the river widens and the countryside bears testament to the area's industrial past. Scores of old gravel pits, the contents of which were transported by river have found new life as wildlife sancturies, sailing and fishing lakes, marinas and holiday parks like those at Cogenhoe and Billing. The area beyond Clifford Hill lock forms part of the flood defence for the city of Northampton. Shops and other attractions are within easy reach from the moorings just before the Town Lock |
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2 Weeks plus
Beyond the fens is the River Great Ouse. Lock through a short tidal section to the imposing Denver Sluice. The Ouse can take you to Cambridge (via the River Cam) or you can continue upstream to Bedford. Along the way is the island city of Ely and the historic towns of Huntingdon, St Ives, Godmanchester and St Neots. |
2 Weeks plus
At Northampton the navigable river ends and the canal begins. We do not licence our boats for the canals but visitor permits can be obtained. The Grand Union (Northampton Arm) will take you via its 17 locks to Gayton Junction and the Grand Union Main Line. From here it is possible to reach Bristol, London, Lancaster, York and hundreds of places in between. It just depends how long you can spend… |
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