Kingston Upon Thames – London Loop (6 nights)
Come and experience London from a completely different view. This waterway will definitely give you a new perspective of London and its sights.
This cruise departs from the visitor moorings in the bustling town of Kingston Upon Thames. We leave the calm waters of the non-tidal Thames as we pass through the lock at Teddington on our way to the Thames Lock. The Grand Union Canal now meanders its way toward Bulls Bridge, where we branch off and moor up for the night at Willow Tree Marina.
This picturesque marina is a wonderful place to stretch your legs and explore the local area, with plenty of walking trails to follow. The peaceful surroundings here provide a sharp contrast to the urban excitement that lies ahead as we continue toward the heart of London.
The journey continues along the Grand Union Canal, passing through Uxbridge, a town with strong connections to Britain’s canal heritage. The canal through Uxbridge is flanked by lush green spaces like Denham Country Park and the scenic Fray’s River. We then navigate through the historic Cowley Lock, the gateway to a long, lock-free section of the Paddington Arm. As we cruise through this stretch, you’ll witness the gradual transformation from countryside to urban landscape.
As we reach the vibrant cityscape of West London, the canal passes through areas such as Southall and Alperton. These neighborhoods reflect the city’s cultural diversity and offer glimpses into the lively communities that have grown alongside the canal. Soon, the tree-lined waterways of Little Venice come into view. This charming network of canals near Paddington is known for its colourful narrowboats, waterside cafes and peaceful atmosphere.
There we moor up at the London Canal Museum, a fascinating attraction dedicated to the history of the UK’s canals. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the significant role the canals played in the Industrial Revolution and see intriguing exhibits, including old canal boats and artifacts from the era.
Your cruise then heads toward Limehouse Basin, a charming marina located in the heart of London’s East End. This vibrant area is full of character, with a mix of trendy restaurants, pubs and independent shops. The nearby markets, including the famous Brick Lane Market, are well worth a visit for those wanting to experience the local culture.
The following morning sees us prepare for our cruise up the tidal Thames. The adrenaline will be flowing as our pilot takes us out of the Limehouse Basin and into the river, where the city reveals itself from a unique vantage point. Tower Bridge, the Shard, the Houses of Parliament, and other iconic landmarks come into view as we make our way upstream toward Teddington. Passing through the Thames Lock once more, we return to the tranquil waters that lead us back to our starting point in Kingston Upon Thames, where we moor up for the final evening.
This journey offers a perfect blend of peaceful countryside, historical insights, and unforgettable views of London from its historic waterways.
Cost per person for this cruise £1,950.00*
Deposit required £975.00 per cabin
*Price based on 2 people sharing a twin/double cabin. Cabins booked for 1 person incur a single occupancy supplement of 30%.
Please refer to our terms and conditions before booking. If you have any questions or specific requirements please contact us.
