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For More Experienced Boaters
Can you handle the locks like an old hand? Already know your
windlass from your weed hatch?
If you've been out on the cut before, you'll be
pleased to know that the possibilities with Tillerman Hire are endless.
We're happy for experienced boaters to take holidays with us. With
three different marinas, each with access to several canals, you'll
never have to take the same trip twice.
How about undertaking a serious challenge? If you're
confident and fit, consider one of the following routes for a real
adventure.
The Warwickshire Canal Ring
If you have plenty of experience, the famous Warwickshire
Ring could be a challenge well worth consideration. Make your way
through 94/107 locks (depending on your route), and 103 miles in total.
Possible in a week if you're prepared for nine hour days of cruising,
more realistic in two weeks, with a little time to stop off and see
some sights. You'll cruise down the Coventry, the Grand Union and
the Birmingham and Fazeley canals. Start your holiday from Tillerman
Hire's marina at Alvecote.
The Leicester Canal Ring
How about an attempt at the Leicester Ring? At 157
miles, with 102 locks, it's big and impressive. The Leicester Ring
encompasses the Coventry Canal, the Trent and Mersey and the Grand
Union. You'll need two weeks to complete this one and can begin at
either Alvecote (on the Coventry Canal) or Union Wharf (on the Grand
Union).
The Four Counties Canal Ring
The Four Counties Ring is easily accessible from
Alvecote Marina. Head North West on the Trent and Mersey, South on
the Shropshire Union and finally loop back East on the Staffordshire
and Worcester. You'll probably need two weeks for this one with 94
locks over 110 miles. You could also embark on this journey from the
Tillerman Hire marina at Blackwater Meadow, cruising through a section
of the Llangollen Canal before you join the Shropshire Union.
Completing one of the 'ring routes' is a real accomplishment.
You'll get the respect you deserve when you casually mention it to
the locals in the canal side pubs en route- with good reason! To navigate
100 odd locks in a week or two involves some seriously hard work,
so a degree of physical fitness is really important. Also, ensure
you have sufficient time for your journey- you'll probably want to
have a day or two where you can visit a town or an attraction, so
bear this in mind when you book.
We recommend the Pearson's Canal Companion series
if you want to get your hands on a good map to plan your route. Otherwise,
we're happy for you to leave the decision until your arrival at a
Tillerman Hire Marina, where you can get the best face to face advice.
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