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Save money and have fun: visit a canal


It’s traditional to feel the pinch at the start of a new year, but in 2009 we’re all more aware than ever of the need to save money and keep costs down wherever possible. Amidst this mood of economic uncertainty, our canals and rivers are emerging as ideal destinations for cheap days out.

But as well as being packed with fun places to take the family on a budget, canals can cut costs in several aspects of every day life.

Keeping fit
Ditch your expensive gym membership and run along the towpath for free. Granted this prospect isn’t too tempting in the grey chill of February, but soon the days will be brighter – and longer.

Don’t like running? Then cycle. The canals boast hundreds of miles of level towpath just perfect for getting on your bike.

Keeping the kids entertained
It’s a fact that more than half the population of the UK live within 5 miles of a British Waterways' canal or river. So you don’t have to travel far to find an entrancing green corridor full of wildlife and history. Take part in the 2009 Wildlife Survey and look out for waterway heritage

If you’re looking for more long term entertainment, why not introduce your children to fishing? It’s free – once you’ve got your rod and your licence – and you can do it all year round.

Getting together with friends
The sun will come out eventually, and when it does, there’s many a picnic table along the canal network just waiting to host your waterside picnic.

Fancy something more exciting? Get a group together and hire a boat for the day. Imagine, a family day trip that doesn’t involve queueing or loud music and only costs around £10 a head. What’s more, it’s perfectly fine for (supervised) children to steer the boat, help moor up and help operate the locks.

Enjoying a city break
The sun hasn’t entirely set on allowing ourselves a few luxuries. You can still enjoy a weekend break in some of the UK’s most exciting destinations – just do it the clever way and book a couple of nights on a narrowboat; far cheaper than a B&B in London or Bath – and possibly much nicer as well.

More hints and tips on enjoying the canals and saving money:
Free days out by canals and rivers
Cost conscious boating in the credit crunch

Last updated: 12/02/2009