At only 8.6 miles long, you could cruise the length of the Regent’s Canal in a day; but we believe the charm of the waterways is learning how to slow down not just literally but metaphorically too. We’ve devised a way to make the Regent’s Canal cruise last you a week, from the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal to Limehouse Basin, with plenty of things to see and do along the way.
1) Little Venice
Situated in Maida Vale at the opening of the Regent’s Canal, rests the picturesque neighbourhood of Little Venice. Colourful and quirky narrowboats line the sides of the waterways, overlooked by Victorian terraces- making it a scenic destination to moor your boat and explore. There are plenty of unconventional venues to visit, from floating art galleries to restaurants on boats- there is even a puppet theatre barge to keep children entertained.
http://www.offtolondon.com/littlevenice.html
2) Regent’s Park
This magnificent park is a haven for wildlife and gardening enthusiasts. It covers 395 acres of land and there is a reported 100 species of birds to look out for. Spend the day picnicking in the park and in the summer months you can visit the open air theatre– plays begin on May 15th and finish in mid-September. There is adequate temporary mooring for narrowboats so you can spend the day enjoying all that Regent’s Park has to offer.
https://www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/the-regents-park
3) London Zoo
The Regent Canal runs parallel to London Zoo where there is plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Children are invited to meet and interact with the animals and chat to their expert keepers. There is an array of ongoing events and shows to attend throughout the day too- from Penguin Beach Live to Giraffe High Tea! Ticket prices in the summer months are £22.50 for adults and £16.65 for children.
http://www.zsl.org/zsl-london-zoo
4) Camden Lock
Camden Lock has been described as the creative and cultural heart of London. Open everyday between 10am and 6pm, the acclaimed market is home to designers, artists and independent sellers bartering a vast range of quirky items. If you are feeling peckish there are some of the finest food vendors in the city at the market, catering to suit all cuisines. And if you are a fan of live music, Camden is home to many famous venues such as ‘The Roundhouse’, ‘The Underworld’ and the ‘Electric Ballroom’ where artists such as The Clash, U2 and Prince have previously played.
http://www.camdenlockmarket.com/
5) London Canal Museum
Located between St Pancras Lock and Islington Tunnel is the London Canal Museum. Here you can learn about the history of London’s canals and the people who lived and worked on them. The museum also offers guided towpath walks and tunnel boat trips. You can moor at the museum and they offer overnight stays for £8 per boat. There are also facilities for you to use such as an electricity point, a water tap and Wi-Fi.
http://www.canalmuseum.org.uk/
6) Hackney City Farm
Hackney City Farm has been involved in city farming for over 30 years and is located only a short walk from the Cat and Mutton Bridge. It aims to inspire local communities to get involved in sustainable urban farming through educational and environmental themes. There is plenty here for children, such as the ‘Mini Farmers Club’ on Saturdays where children can help manage the farmyard and a range of animals to see. Mosaic and pottery classes are available to keep the adults quiet too!
7) Mile End Climbing Wall
‘Rock On’ climbing wall in Mile End overlooks the Regent’s Canal and is housed inside an old pipe engineering works. There is over 16,000 sq ft of climbing surface to explore with walls to suit both novices and professionals. Ticket prices are £8.50 for adults and only £5 for children. There is a range of climbing courses to choose from too.
https://www.mileendwall.org.uk/
Image(s) provided by:
Archant
