Museums, Park and Skippered Boat Trips
Moira Furnace Museum and Country Park
Furnace Lane, Moira, Swadlincote DE12 6AT.
Museums, Park and Skippered Boat Trips
#1 Rated Skippered Boat Trips on the Ashby Canal
Skippered Boat Trips on the Ashby Canal
The Ashby Canal is a peaceful rural canal in the Midlands of England that runs for about 22 miles between Marston Junction and the town of Moira. It was originally opened in 1804 to transport coal, lime, and other goods from local mines to nearby towns during the Industrial Revolution. Unlike many canals, the Ashby Canal has no locks, making it easy for boats to travel along its length. Today it is mainly used for leisure activities such as narrowboating, fishing, cycling, and walking along the towpath. The canal passes through quiet countryside and small villages, making it popular with tourists and local visitors who enjoy its wildlife and historic surroundings.
Skippered boat trips on UK rivers and canals let passengers relax and enjoy Britain’s waterways while an experienced skipper handles navigation. These cruises suit anyone who wants to experience canal travel without piloting the boat, including families, elderly visitors, corporate groups, and those seeking an easy outing with commentary on history, wildlife, and landmarks. Trips range from short city cruises, like Birmingham’s Gas Street Basin or Camden Lock in London, to longer excursions on the Grand Union Canal, Thames, Norfolk Broads, and Caledonian Canal. Skippers often share engaging stories about heritage, boatmen, bridges, and local wildlife such as herons and kingfishers. Themed trips include pub crawls, wildlife tours, photography cruises, and educational outings. Private charters are popular for celebrations, with groups bringing their own catering or arranging food onboard. Skippered boat trips offer an effortless and authentic way to enjoy the charm of Britain’s canal network.
Ashby Canal's Best Skippered Boat Trips in 2026