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Are you visiting the Inland Waterways Association Festival of Water at St Neots this August?
Do you want to tick off a boating area new to you?
Are you interested in exploring the tidal Nene?
This journey is for experienced private boaters only. It is not permissible to do this journey on a hire boat!
A journey through the Middle Level Navigations to the River Nene, offers many opportunities to moor in open countryside, unwind, and look out for kingfishers and other wildlife. Include the Fenland market town of Wisbech into your holiday plans and you can also discover a stately home, a luxury cinema, an award winning brewery and a Charles Dicken’s original manuscript! On the tidal River Nene, in the far north-east of Cambridgeshire, enjoy the peace and tranquillity of narrowboating, and discover the surprising wonders of Wisbech.
1) The River Nene
Wonder Number One is the navigable River Nene itself. To get to Wisbech you’ll need to take the channel to the Dog in a Doublet sluice and then follow the Nene to Wisbech. This is a beautiful narrowboat route because the Nene is such a quiet river, with stunning countryside and attractive villages. Beyond the Dog and Doublet Lock it is a 15 mile tidal adventure to Wisbech harbour. Registered craft can pass through the lock, but call 01733 202219 before you arrive to arrange passage. (Read the Strong Stream Advice for the River Nene.)
2) Wisbech Museum
This museum opened in 1847, making it one of the oldest in the UK. Among the rare and unusual artefacts to be seen is the original transcript of Great Expectations by Charles Dickens! Wisbech Museum also has regular activities for children, so the whole family can enjoy a day out.
3) Elgood’s Brewery
Elgood’s Brewery was established over 200 years ago and has been run by the Elgood Family since 1878. It was one of the first classic Georgian Breweries to be built outside of London, and they have won numerous independent brewing awards. Check out the lovely gardens at the property when you visit.
4) Luxe Cinema
Luxe Cinema is considered to be the best cinema in Wisbech because they have comfortable sofas and armchairs, instead of the usual type of theatre seats. They offer blockbusters, special screenings of classic films and occasional special event viewings. This would make a really cosy treat on your holiday if it’s a rainy day.
5) Peckover House
On the North Brink on the banks of the River Nene you will find Peckover House, which was built around 1722. This classic Georgian House breaks the street line by being set back from the terraces to either side, and offers beautiful walks, stunning gardens and a strong history. It’s frequently used to film period dramas, including BBC’s David Copperfield. Don’t miss it if you visit Wisbech!
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Before planning your journey it is essential to speak to the Lock Keeper at Dog in a Doublet and the Wisbech Harbour office !
You may also like: The 3 Best Moorings When Narrowboating on the Nene
