What could be nicer than meandering along a river or canal in the summer? Bath has both and there are some lovely ways to explore the waterways, from river boat cruises and walks along the tow path to hiring a bike or even a barge. Watching the narrow boats negotiate the steep and pretty flight of locks is always fun and is only a short walk from The Henry.

 

Lock gates

Recently we discovered another delightful place, the Bath Boating Station that dates from Victorian times. Here you can hire Canadian canoes & Kayaks, punts & rowing punts by the hour or day which can all be used to explore the River Avon. The  beautiful, wooden Thames Skiffs (rowing boats) are so graceful that you will want to drift along in one and let all your worries just slide away. Most of these historic boats were made here, where the tradition of boat building goes back over a century and a half. There is also an elegant restaurant, The Bathwick Boatman where you can watch the river as you sip a cool drink or eat a meal. The perfect way to end a long summer day.

 

Thames Skiffs