ChgoGal

@Heimdell: Thanks much for that link. Now, feeling a bit sheepish, thinking of the Erie Canal and this canal off the south branch of the Chicago River.

@bilboburgler: Thanks for the intro. to Terry Darlington. He seems a charming character, and even more gorgeous pics of the canal systems in France. (The pics of his U.S. trip are less scenic/romantic.) On my next visit to England, I must make a point of seeing one of these narrow canals in the picturesque countryside that your country has so much of.

stevelyon

The Lancaster Canal is probably the nearest one to the Lakes, this link gives information on this and other options:

http://www.lctrust.co.uk/?WindowWidth=1044

PatrickLondon

>>On my next visit to England, I must make a point of seeing one of these narrow canals in the picturesque countryside that your country has so much of<<

ChgoGal, you can see narrowboats on canals in London, and it's not necessarily as grim as you might imagine - if, for example, you were to walk along the Regent's Canal between Limehouse and Broadway Market (never mind its swisher end around Little Venice). But granted, it's not the same as the open countryside.

dobberdiane

I thank everyone for all the information given. I think it will help in making a decision on which route/boat to take. I do think we will keep the number of locks to a minimum and the routes in and around Wales sound very appealing. Regarding the, Broads, what type of boats are available? Renting bikes sounds like a good option. We do like to ride. And the advice about rain, getting wet, is good to know so that we can prepare for that. Going slow is no problem. I think of this as slow and relaxing. That's the goal. Are the beds the same on all boats? Do you have to assemble daily or are they permanent?

Havana128

https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=ha...&client=safari

You might be interested in this article about the Wales route and Harrison Ford's trip a few years ago.

If you look at the main boat hire companies they will have diagrams of all the boats and explanations of how the beds work. Same for the companies operating small cruisers on the Broads.

RosemaryM

Regarding the beds on boats, there is usually a permanent double which stays made up. Often the dinette converts to another double but since there are only two of you that won't be necessary. Boats vary in length depending on the number of berths so don't get one too big and you should be fine.
If you decide on the Llangollen don't miss the fantastic and spectactular Pontcysyllte Aquaduct.

Rosemary