Narrowboat Pubs: The Best Places to Visit in the UK

Narrowboat pubs have become increasingly popular in the UK. These pubs are located on narrowboats that travel along the canals, providing a unique experience for visitors. The narrowboat pubs offer a relaxing atmosphere as well as a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the British countryside.

There are several narrowboat pubs to visit in the UK, each with its own unique charm. Some of the most popular ones include The Folly Inn, The Cross Guns, and The Bridge Inn. These pubs offer a range of food and drink options, as well as live music and other entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a pint of beer or a glass of wine while watching the world go by on the canal.

Top Narrowboat Pubs in the UK

Traditional Pubs

For those who love a good traditional pub, the UK’s waterways offer plenty of options. The Royal Oak in Pencelli, located on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal, is a popular choice for narrowboat holiday-goers. This pub is known for its real ales and hearty pub food, including fish and chips. Another great option is The Boat Inn in Llangynidr, which sits on the banks of the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Waterside Pubs

For those who prefer a waterside location, The Jolly Boatman in Thrupp is a must-visit. Located on the Oxford Canal, this pub offers a large outdoor seating area right on the water’s edge. The pub also serves a range of food, including wood-fired pizzas. Another great option is The Folly in Oxford, which is located on the River Thames and offers a beautiful setting for a meal or drink.

Pubs with Live Music

If you’re looking for some entertainment during your narrowboat holiday, there are plenty of pubs that offer live music. The Tap and Spile in Birmingham is a popular choice, with live music events throughout the week. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon is another great option, with a range of performances including live music and theatre.

Overall, there are plenty of great narrowboat pubs to visit in the UK, from traditional pubs to waterside locations and those with live entertainment. Whether you’re cruising along the Kennet and Avon Canal or exploring the industrial heritage of the Pennines, there’s sure to be a pub to suit your tastes.

Narrowboat Routes with Pubs

When it comes to enjoying a pint in a unique setting, few experiences can match visiting a pub on a narrowboat. The canals of the UK offer plenty of opportunities to do just that, with many scenic routes that take you past some of the country’s most charming watering holes. Here are some of the best narrowboat routes with pubs along the way.

The Union Canal

The Union Canal in Scotland is a popular route for those looking to explore the country’s waterways. Along the way, you’ll find several pubs that are well worth a visit. These include:

• The Bridge Inn in Ratho, which has a great beer garden overlooking the canal.
• The Linlithgow Canal Centre, which has a bar and restaurant on site.
• The Bridge 49 in Linlithgow, which has a great selection of real ales and ciders.

The Kennet and Avon Canal

The Kennet and Avon Canal is one of the most picturesque waterways in the UK, and it’s home to some fantastic pubs too. Some of the best include:

• The Barge Inn in Honeystreet, which is famous for its live music and great atmosphere.
• The Lock Inn in Bradford on Avon, which has a large beer garden and serves up delicious food.
• The George Inn in Bathampton, which is a historic pub that dates back to the 15th century.

The Oxford Canal

The Oxford Canal is another great route for narrowboat enthusiasts, with plenty of pubs to stop off at along the way. Some of the best include:

• The Rock of Gibraltar in Enslow, which has a great selection of real ales and a cosy atmosphere.
• The Jolly Boatman in Thrupp, which has a large beer garden and serves up delicious food.
• The Folly Bridge Inn in Oxford, which is a historic pub that’s been around since the 17th century.

The Grand Union Canal

The Grand Union Canal is the longest canal in the UK, and it’s home to some fantastic pubs. Some of the best include:

• The Three Locks in Soulbury, which has a large beer garden and serves up delicious food.
• The Grove Lock in Leighton Buzzard, which has a great selection of real ales and a welcoming atmosphere.
• The Water’s Edge in Cowley, which has a large outdoor seating area and stunning views of the canal.

The Forth and Clyde Canal

The Forth and Clyde Canal in Scotland is a great route for those looking to explore the country’s waterways. Along the way, you’ll find several pubs that are well worth a visit. These include:

• The Applebank Inn in Larkhall, which has a great selection of real ales and a welcoming atmosphere.
• The Boathouse in Kilsyth, which has a large beer garden and serves up delicious food.
• The Stables Bar in Kirkintilloch, which is a historic pub that’s been around since the 19th century.

No matter which canal route you choose, you’re sure to find plenty of fantastic pubs to visit along the way. So why not hop on a narrowboat and explore the UK’s waterways in style?

Pubs with Scenic Views

For narrowboat enthusiasts who enjoy beautiful views while enjoying a pint, there are several pubs along the canals of the UK that offer stunning scenery. Here are a few of the best pubs with scenic views:

The Boat Inn, Ely

Located in the historic city of Ely, The Boat Inn is situated on the River Great Ouse and offers a picturesque view of the river. The pub is popular with narrowboat enthusiasts and has a large outdoor seating area that overlooks the river. Visitors can enjoy a drink while watching the boats pass by and taking in the beautiful scenery.

The Star Inn, Brecon

The Star Inn is located in the heart of the Brecon Beacons National Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The pub is situated on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal and is a popular stop for narrowboat enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace while taking in the breathtaking views of the canal and the mountains.

The Bridge End Inn, Llangynidr

The Bridge End Inn is a traditional Welsh pub located in the village of Llangynidr and is situated on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The pub offers stunning views of the canal and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace while watching the narrowboats pass by and taking in the beautiful scenery.

The Star Inn, Talybont-on-Usk

The Star Inn is located in the village of Talybont-on-Usk and is situated on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. The pub offers stunning views of the canal and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace while watching the narrowboats pass by and taking in the beautiful scenery.

The Navigation Inn, Stoke Bruerne

The Navigation Inn is located in the village of Stoke Bruerne and is situated on the Grand Union Canal. The pub offers stunning views of the canal and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can enjoy a drink on the outdoor terrace while watching the narrowboats pass by and taking in the beautiful scenery.

Overall, there are many pubs along the canals of the UK that offer stunning views. Whether you’re on a narrowboat or just visiting the area, these pubs are definitely worth a visit.

Pubs with Dog-Friendly Atmosphere

For those who love to take their furry friends along, there are many dog-friendly pubs along the UK’s canals. Here are some of the best ones to visit on your narrowboat trip:

The Bridge Inn, Horton

Located near the hire boat base in Horton, The Bridge Inn is a popular stop for boaters and their dogs. This pub has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with a log fire to keep you and your pup cozy during the colder months. They serve a variety of food and drink options, including real ales and ciders. Dogs are allowed both inside and outside the pub.

The Crown Lodge Hotel, Coniston

The Crown Lodge Hotel is a great option for those looking for a more upscale experience. This hotel has a dog-friendly bar area, where you and your furry friend can relax and enjoy a drink together. The bar serves a variety of beverages, including local beers and spirits. Dogs are also allowed in the hotel’s outdoor seating area.

The Narrow Boat, Skipton

The Narrow Boat is a popular pub located in Skipton, known for its great selection of real ales and ciders. Dogs are welcome both inside and outside the pub, and there are water bowls available for thirsty pups. The pub also serves food, with both vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

The Navigation Inn, Stoke Bruerne

Located near the canal museum in Stoke Bruerne, The Navigation Inn is a dog-friendly pub with a cozy atmosphere. They serve a variety of food and drink options, including real ales and ciders. Dogs are allowed both inside and outside the pub, and there are water bowls available for thirsty pups.

The Wharf Inn, Fenny Compton

The Wharf Inn is a popular stop for boaters, located near the hire boat base in Fenny Compton. This pub has a dog-friendly bar area, where you and your furry friend can relax and enjoy a drink together. They serve a variety of food and drink options, including real ales and ciders. Dogs are also allowed in the pub’s outdoor seating area.

Overall, there are many dog-friendly pubs to visit along the UK’s canals, making it a great destination for those who love to travel with their furry friends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring the UK’s waterways on a narrowboat while visiting some of the country’s best pubs is a unique and enjoyable experience. A guidebook can be a helpful companion to plan your route and discover hidden gems along the way.

The River Great Ouse offers a picturesque route with plenty of pubs to stop at, including The Anchor Inn in Littleport and The Crown Lodge in Outwell. The Fenland Waterways also have a variety of pubs, such as The Five Bells in Upwell and The Three Pickerels in Mepal.

While enjoying a pint or a burger at these pubs, take in the tranquil beauty of the countryside and the charm of the canals. Narrowboat pubs offer a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, perfect for socializing with other boaters or simply enjoying a quiet drink.

Overall, exploring narrowboat pubs along the UK’s canals is a unique and enjoyable experience that is not to be missed. Whether you are a seasoned boater or a first-time visitor, there is something for everyone to enjoy.