Hzzzzzzz

Visiting Scotland next May. Rather than take train or bus from Edinburgh to Glasgow, we would like to take a boat via the Union Canal.....NOT for a vacation break but as a much more interesting way to travel between these cities. Perhaps some of you can help, please!

Lifeman

Have a look at

http://www.holidayuk.co.uk/canals/routes/scotland/

The website says that the distance is 118 miles with a lot of locks and the speed limit on canals is 4mph. You'll need just over a week to do it, so it's a holiday in itself not just a travel option.

Hzzzzzzz

Thank you, Lifeman!

Upon further research, Edinburgh to Glasgow (one way) is 69 miles. I presumed, incorrectly, that Union Canal was the name of the total canal; in fact, trip covers TWO canals, Union (36+ mi.) AND Forth/Clyde (31+ mi.) Canals.

So certainly more than a day, and round trip would be the 118 miles you mention. Still hoping one-way possibility on a long weekend/weekday break.

More comments re: one-way canal trip Edinburgh to Glasgow (e.g. hotel boat?) welcomed!

janisj

It is 70 miles--and there is no commute-type service. The trip would take approx 20 hours one way plus stops. So AFAIK the hotel boat one week cruise is the only option.

Sophal

Cycling between these two cities is great too as most of the route is incredibly picturesque and there are numerous landmarks on the way.
I've never known anyone to do the whole length by boat. Would be happy to hear how it goes!

Gordon_R

>>>Cycling between these two cities is great too as most of the route is incredibly picturesque and there are numerous landmarks on the way.<<<

You are joking aren't you? At least via a direct route (or even most fairly indirect routes I can think off), the "scenery" in the central belt between Edinburgh and Glasgow is obscured by heavy industry (or the remnants thereof) and a blur of rather depressing towns. You'd need to detour much further north or south to see any attractive scenery.

PalenQ

If the direct bike route parallels even roughly the industrial detritus corridor Gordon talks about it would have to be one of Europe's least scenic bike putzes. but yeh you could see, on the rare clear day, the Scottish Highlands in the distance.