Canal Pub
The Two Boats Inn
Long Itchington
Canal Pub
#1 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Southern England has a rich network of historic waterways that have shaped its landscape, economy, and culture for centuries. This includes the iconic River Thames, a vital commercial artery since Roman times, and the Kennet and Avon Canal, completed in 1810, connecting the Thames at Reading to the Bristol Channel through picturesque countryside and historic towns like Bath. Other significant waterways include the River Medway in Kent, the Hampshire Avon in Salisbury, and the Wey Navigation in Surrey, one of Britain's oldest artificial waterways from 1653.
Canal and riverside pubs in the UK are a long-standing tradition, once serving as vital stops for boatmen during the Industrial Revolution. Today, these historic pubs blend heritage charm with modern comfort, offering traditional fare, local ales, and scenic views beside moored narrowboats and canal wildlife. Many have names reflecting their past—“The Navigation,” “The Lock,” or “The Anchor”—and feature exposed beams, open fireplaces, beer gardens by the water, and moorings for boaters. Favorites include The Fisherman’s Return on the Norfolk Broads, The Waterside Inn on the Kennet & Avon Canal, and many along the Grand Union, Oxford, and Leeds & Liverpool Canals. These pubs welcome boaters, walkers, cyclists, families, and locals seeking a tranquil atmosphere. Many host events like quiz nights, live music, beer festivals, and barbecues, with menus featuring pub classics—fish and chips, Sunday roasts, and seasonal specials with regional ales. Whether you want a dog-friendly stop, romantic dining, or a peaceful pint by the water, Britain’s canal and riverside pubs deliver an authentic taste of waterway culture, where history, hospitality, and natural beauty meet.
Southern England Waterways's Best Canal Pub in 2026
Canal Pub and Museums
#2 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Cafe and Canal Pub
#3 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#4 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#5 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#6 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#7 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#8 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#9 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#10 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#11 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
Grand Junction Arms
Bridge 9, Paddington branch
Canal Pub
#12 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#13 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Cafe, Canal Pub and Visitor Centres
#14 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#15 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#16 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#17 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#18 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#19 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
Canal Pub
#20 Rated Canal Pub on the Southern England Waterways
