The Fenland Waterways

Bridge over the Waterways
Bridge over the Waterways

March Marina is situated on the outskirts of the village, once an island floating amongst the marshy fens, now a market village situated on the River Nene. The river banks are lined with pretty thatched cottages and reeds with scenic views.

As you depart March and head south you will pass St. Wendreda’s Church, named after the Saxon Princess, the church is known for its roof that features 120 angel carvings. Cruising to Peterborough is easily achievable in a weekend break taking 6 hours to reach, passing the historic town of Whittlesey and through marshy waterways. Ferry Meadows Country Park is also located on the waters, with a variety of activities available such as horse riding, walking, windsurfing and sailing. The park is an ideal mooring point for all the family before making your way to Peterborough.

Peterborough is home to a rich heritage as well as a large selection of shops and dining opportunities. In a weekend break you could choose to spend the day off your hire boat and explore the city by foot. Perhaps browsing the local boutiques or visiting Cathedral Square in the city centre for alfresco dining with plenty of street entertainment. A collection of unique sculptures can be visible from the water or closer inspected by foot, they are often located in areas of great beauty such as Thorpe Meadows, Lynch Wood or Burghley House.

Ely Marina is situated on the River Great Ouse within easy reach of the town centre, once home to historic leader Oliver Cromwell. The towering Ely Cathedral, known locally as the Ship of the Fens, is visible wide and far around the flat countryside of East Anglia. From this marina you can leisurely cruise south and merge onto the River Cam to float into Cambridge in a weekend break, taking approximately six – seven hours cruising.

Ely Cathedral
Ely Cathedral

Float down to Cambridge past Wicken Fens and the Nature Reserves, where there is a wealth of things to experience in the City Centre. Whether you are looking to experience the heritage of Cambridge, the nightlife entertainment through theatre performances or one of the many bars, or if you’d rather a healthy walk to explore the local scenery. There really is something for everyone to experience with a large selection of shops to browse or restaurants and pubs to dine in. The City also offers water lovers the opportunity to take to the River in slightly less orthodox form of vessel, sailing down the marshy flatlands in a wooden Punt.

For one week plus holidays from Ely, why not cruise past Huntingdon and St Neots and make your way to the cultural town of Bedford where the navigations end. This is achievable in a week with approximately 6 – 7 hours a day. There are a wide selection of villages tucked away down country lanes along the River, each with their own historical significance.

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To speak directly to one of our friendly team at Waterways Holidays Ltd, call us on 01252 796400, open 7 days a week.