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Jason's Canal Trips
London
There can't be many better ways to spend a clear sunny day, whatever the season, than in one of London's elegant canal boats. On a crisp October morning, we meet our guide Sara on the Grand Union Canal in Little Venice. She instantly offers to utilize the 5000 miles of ‘liquid highways’ across Britain to take us to Manchester, Leeds or even York. But given that it would take us two weeks to get to Birmingham, the crowd passes up her kind offer. So, instead, we begin our journey to Camden on to the Regent’s Canal.
Jason’s Tour takes in the length of the Regents Canal, built in 1812 between Little Venice and Camden Lock. The trip takes 45 minutes each way, and passengers can make a return journey or just go one way. On the Camden-bound leg of the journey passengers are treated to a running commentary of the sights and history of the waterways.
As you move downstream visitors learn about the history of these narrow boats, specifically Jason the Tour Boat, and those who live and work with them. Given 23,000 people in Britain still live on the canals, they are certainly an integral part of the British culture past and present. The boats also played a crucial role in the Industrial Revolution, back when they were pulled by horses (a sight that is unfortunately not witnessed on today’s tour). The view from the canal also takes in the Maida Hill tunnel, Regents Park and even the Snowdon Aviary at London Zoo.
Gliding through an untrodden part of London, you will learn so much about the importance of these canals as well as fun trivia about ‘Winding Holes’, strange markings on bridges and the tragedy of the Macclesfield ‘Blow Up’ bridge! So, sit back and let the boat take over.
Timetable: Monday to Friday: Depart Little Venice - 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, Arrive/Depart Camden lock - 11:15am, 1:15pm, 3:15pm, Weekends & Bank Holidays: Depart Little Venice - 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 4:30pm Arrive/Depart Camden lock - 11:15am, 1:15pm, 3:15pm, 5:15pm*
Prices: Return: Adult - £9.00/Concession £8.00, Single: Adult - £8.00/Concession £7.00
For booking information, visit the website, or use the email address provided.