Has anyone tried the canalboats. Do they go near any of the main attrations in the countryside? Is this a good way to see England? Love to hear any comments. Thanks.

I rented a canalboat (there were 6 of us) for a week a few years ago near Basingstoke. It was cheaper than a hotel, easy to steer, and very relaxing. Opening and closing the locks was great fun. We came through charming towns, gardens, and tied up for the night wherever we wanted. However, if you want to 'hit many major sites' it's not efficient. You could easily get into London by train for the day, and you could get to the Thames (Windsor Castle). Check out some websites; they will show you maps of suggested routes.

www.guildfordboats.co.uk

You will find two categories of narrow boats. The self drive type jen talks about. They are offered in several parts of the UK - on the upper Thames, on Midland canals, in Wales, etc. They are great fun especially for a group of 4 to 8. But they are not reallt for majot sightseeing. You are limited to the towns and villages right on the river/canal. it is a very laid back and slow way to travel. A nice respite in the middle of a hectic trip.<BR><BR>The other type are narrow boats that have been converted to small floating, luxury (usually) hotels. they are usually upscale and offer good food and comfortable accomodations. But again, you are pretty much limited to sights along the canal. One difference - often these hotels arrange shore excursions along the route so you could see a little more.

I think this would be a great idea to get to know some parts of the UK which aren't the usual tourist spots. I haven't done it myself,but have friends who have. Its very relaxing - a gentle pace of life - and the highlights are stopping off at the canal side pubs for a pint and a meal. Let me know how you get on. Its good to see some people being a bit more adventurousin their choice of holiday. There are some great bits of Britain outside of London, the Cotswolds and Stratford!