Suppose it saves on parking! Leave the car at home and go Christmas shopping by boat. Waterways Holidays says you can easily float along on a canal into the heart of towns and cities along the way.
Bath, for example, is on the Kennet & Avon canal (above) and you moor right in the city centre where you can then walk to shops, restaurants and, between November 22 and December 9, the renowned Christmas Market with more than 100 stalls.
A four-night, midweek hire of the 65ft “Golden Oriole”, sleeping four costs £505 in late November/early December. Based in Bath, the boat offers very high-quality fittings including central heating and a wood-burning stove. Similar boats are available for Christmas and New Year.
Other towns and cities with public moorings include Birmingham, Chester, Stratford upon Avon and Warwick. Visit www.waterwaysholidays.com or call 01252 339023.
