Slow lane sensations

Discover the joy of 'messing about on boats' with some of the UK's prettiest canal journeys

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Narrowboat enthusiasts and campaigners Timothy West and Prunella Scales did much to highlight the joys of slow canal cruising in their Great Canal Journeys TV series.

These artificial waterways were mainly created during the 18th century during the Industrial Revolution to move everything from coal and textiles to slate and gravel. By the early 19th century, Britain had over 4,000 miles of canals.

But their golden era was short-lived, with the better and faster railways rapidly taking over, and soon many of the waterways had become sadly neglected quiet backwaters.

However, since the 1950s, canals have seen a total rejuvenation, with much of the network repaired and reopened for leisure cruising. Here are some of our favourite routes.

Grand Union Canal

At 137 miles long, the Grand Union Canal from London to Birmingham is the UK's longest canal. It last carried cargo in 1960 - 155 years since its opening. The canal takes in the Chiltern Hills and Colne Valley Regional Park. Not to be missed is the uphill Hatton Flight, nicknamed the Stairway to Heaven, with 21 locks. Visit the free Canal Museum at Stoke Bruerne to learn more about Britain's waterway heritage.

See canalrivertrust.org.uk for opening hours.

* For boat hire, see grandunionnarrowboats.co.uk

LANCASTER CANAL