The Lover’s Guide to the Fen Waterways

With over 70 years’ experience of loving our work on the Fenland waterways, we can confidently say that we know our way around the Middle Level, River Nene and River Ouse.  We know the history, the sights, the hidden gems and where to go for the most romantic photos. We look forward to sharing our holiday boats and day-hire boats with couples and families every spring, and until then, we share some of our local, insider knowledge about this unique boating landscape on this blog.

The Canals of the Fens: a History

Any decent guide of our east Anglian waterways should start with a brief history. Once a wetland landscape, the Fens were drained to create a flat, dry region for agriculture. The first attempts to drain the Fens began in Roman times, but the drainage was finally successful in the 1820s, when powerful coal-fired steam engines were brought in to replace the failing wind pumps. A great place to learn more about the history of these waterways is Stretham Old Drainage Engine, built in 1831. It can be visited when boating on the Great River Ouse, and is a great place to wander hand in hand, absorbing the history.

Also, Prickwillow Museum contains a nearly identical Mirrlees diesel engine that has been preserved and restored to working order.  This museum tells the story of the changing face of the Fens and its network of drainage systems and pumping stations. The museum is housed in the old pumping station in Prickwillow, just four miles east of the romantic, ancient, city of Ely.

The Most Romantic Fenland Canal Cruises

Our day-hire boats and holiday narrowboats are designed for the most romantic, and comfortable couples’ experience. Whether you are planning a day trip, or a longer romantic break, we can offer stunning scenery and convenient options to eat out, or eat on board the boat.

Popular Cruises for Lovers

• March to Upwell and Outwell; a charming, rural day trip.
• March to Peterborough; a holiday that crosses the Meridian date line.
• March to Ely; visit the cathedral, antique shops and Oliver Cromwell’s house.

Attractions to Visit along the Fenland Canals

There are many villages, markets and towns to visit along the way, with convenient moorings where you can stop. On a short trip you could grab fish and chips for two, or a country pub lunch. On a longer narrowboat break together you may like to see impressive historical buildings, and the unusual museums found here in Cambridgeshire. The curiously flat landscape, (created by the draining of the Fens,) offers easy navigation, with photogenic, huge skyscapes.

The Perfect Photo Portrait

When you visit us, you may be surprised that the waterways are so much less crowded than the Norfolk broads, and the scenery is remarkably flat. Quirky photo opportunities may include wind farms, Ely Cathedral, or Cambridge’s Bridge of Sighs. Don’t hesitate to ask someone to take some spontaneous couples’ photos, of you two at the tiller, or sitting together in the bow. For a special occasion, such as a relationship milestone, or your engagement, try staging some classic romantic photos, such as embracing on a picturesque bridge, or strolling hand in hand along the towpath. Early mornings with the mist rising from the canal can be very photogenic, so take the opportunity to create the perfect Instagram moment. Tell your love story with serious passion, or alternatively opt for comedy and recreate that iconic Titanic movie moment, of Jack and Rose on the bow, (making sure you do not take any safety risks when doing so!)

Would your true love enjoy canal boating? Or maybe you’re both already seasoned narrowboaters? This Valentine’s Day, consider gifting a boating experience. A Fox Narrowboats gift voucher offers the opportunity to create treasured memories together this year.

Read: A Fox Narrowboats Gift Voucher: The Present That Promises Adventure

A Valentines Gift for You Both

February doesn’t always offer the best weather for narrowboating, but you can book a Fox Narrowboat from 31st March onwards this year. Consider surprising your partner with a boating break; a memorable gift that you can both enjoy.

You may also like: 5 Reasons Why Canal Boats are the Most Romantic Holiday

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