Canal boat rentals in England
Why choose England for your boating vacation?
Looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience your next England vacation? Discover the charm of the British countryside with houseboat rentals from Le Boat, your ticket to an authentic and flexible boat vacation.
When you rent a boat in England, you unlock a new way to explore the country. Cruise along peaceful rivers, moor in quaint villages, and enjoy life at your own pace aboard one of our modern canal boats in England. With no boating license or experience required, it’s the perfect adventure for first-time travellers and seasoned explorers alike.
Our canal boat rentals in England allow you to visit hidden gems you won’t find on a typical trip to England. Think riverside pubs, historic towns like Windsor and Oxford, lush countryside, and even castles along the way. Choose from a wide range of canal boat rentals, from budget-friendly options to our luxury houseboat rentals with premium amenities.
Planning a trip to London? Our boat rent bases are just a short train ride away from the capital, making it easy to combine the excitement of the city with the peace of the waterways. It’s the perfect blend of iconic sightseeing and off-the-beaten-path discovery.
With over 50 years of experience, Le Boat provides one of the most trusted canal boat fleets in England, which is perfect for exploring at your own pace.
To see prices and to book please explore the Thames below.
Boating regions in England
The River Thames highlights
-
City
-
Fishing
-
Golf
-
History & Heritage
-
Horse Back Riding
-
Water sports
Rent a boat in England and explore beyond the waters…
A canal boat vacation in England is a relaxing and memorable way to explore the country’s beautiful waterways, but why not extend your adventure? After your boat hire, or just before you begin your canal cruise, there’s plenty more to see nearby. Book a hotel, rent a car, and take some extra time to enjoy the rich history, culture, and scenery just beyond the water.
Here are a few great destinations to visit during your boat stay in England:
Oxford
While many travelers enjoy canal boat rent routes toward Henley and Windsor, heading the other way brings you to the historic city of Oxford – an ideal stop before or after your boating adventure.
Famous for its prestigious university and stunning architecture, Oxford is a city full of charm and character. Climb to the top of the Radcliffe Camera for breathtaking views, step back in time at Oxford Castle, or unwind in the peaceful botanical gardens. From world-class museums and lively markets to an Alice in Wonderland-themed shop, there’s something for everyone!
London
Although our houseboat rental routes don’t reach central London, the capital is just a quick train journey away, so why not take a trip to London?
Explore iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace, catch a show in the West End, stroll through royal parks, or dive into the vibrant energy of markets in Shoreditch and Camden. A city break to London is the perfect urban contrast to the peace and charm of your boat accommodation on England’s scenic waterways.
South Downs National Park
Just over an hour from our cruising region, South Downs National Park is a must-see addition to your canal boat vacation in England. This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers a stunning contrast to life on the water, with rolling green hills, scenic hiking trails, and picturesque countryside villages.
Catch a mainline train from London to Winchester or Eastbourne and spend a day or two exploring this peaceful region. Whether you visit before or after you rent a boat, South Downs is the perfect way to extend your houseboat adventure and experience even more of England’s natural charm.
Other UK boating vacation destinations
Discover Scotland by boat
If you’re planning a trip to the UK and want to explore beyond the familiar sights of London and the River Thames, consider a unique and unforgettable experience: a boating vacation in the heart of Scotland. Cruising along the Caledonian Canal offers a stunning and immersive way to see the Scottish Highlands from a truly unique perspective.
This scenic waterway stretches across the country from the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea, weaving through some of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes. Along your journey, you’ll pass dramatic cliffs, majestic lochs, and ancient castles, including the legendary Loch Ness, home to tales of the mythical Nessie.
Take a look at our boating vacations in Scotland.
Review of cruising in England…
“Brilliant weekend! Loved it! Great fun on the boat navigating the waterways and enjoying the pace of life on the river. Wonderful way to see this area of England. We had a wonderful time on the Tango. It was a comfortable boat and we really enjoyed going along the waterways and through locks, having BBQ’s on the side of the river and jumping in for a dip to cool off. Got the hang of boating really quickly and loved it.”
Vicky Boughton, Tango