Beat the credit crunch with a family holiday by boat

Stuck for an idea for a cheap family holiday? A break on a narrow boat could be the solution.

Narrow boats are ideal for family holidays because there's lots for children to do. There's locks to operate, tunnels to navigate and wildlife to spot along the way.

One of the best routes for a family holiday by boat is along the Rochdale Canal in West Yorkshire. It might not sound glamorous but those who try it will be rewarded with beautiful scenery and good pubs en route.

There are plenty of locks to operate to keep the children amused, including one of the deepest in the country, and kids can always hop off the boat and walk or cycle along the tow path.

Try Shire Cruisers (www.shirecruisers.co.uk) for packages, prices and pub recommendations.

A particularly chilled out journey for those taking their first family holiday on a canal boat is the journey along the Oxford Canal south from Stretton-Under-Fosse, midway between Coventry and Rugby, to Braunston.

You'll weave through pretty woodland and over two aqueducts. There aren't too many locks on this route, so parents won't feel overworked. Rose Narrowboats has last minute deals on its website, www.rose-narrowboats.co.uk.

For a family holiday with a built-in wow factor, take a trip along the Llangollen Canal over the 200-year-old Pontcsyllte Aqueduct. Strung 120 feet above the Dee Valley, this is Britain's highest and longest aqueduct and a jaw-dropping feat of 19th century engineering.

For more information on this and other family holidays, contact Black Prince Narrowboat Holidays on www.black-prince.com for further details

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