The "lanky" follows the contour line of the land, meaning it goes around obstacles such as hills rather than through or over them – using either tunnels or locks. Originally this meant avoiding costly engineering works now it means 41 miles of lock-free, stress-free cruising mostly through the open countryside whilst also skirting past the coast at points. With such diverse surroundings, there are many things to do should you be tempted to venture out from the canal side, you could be enjoying a Hest bank coastal walk one day and on the boat putting your feet up in the middle of open countryside the next.

The peak forest canal is on the same level as the Macclesfield canal, allowing boats to cruise from Whaley bridge or Buxworth Basin all the way to the top of Bosley locks without having to use a lock. Why not follow the path from Bridge 27 up to the white nancy monument and enjoy extensive views across the Cheshire plane or pause at buxworth basin and discover the history of the largest and busiest inland port on Britain’s narrow canal system.

From the mining town of Moira in Leicestershire to the point at which it connects with the Coventry canal in Warwickshire the Ashby is an undemanding lock-free route with little in the way of engineering features. A Site of Special Scientific Interest the canal winds through the countryside for almost its entire 22 mile length. Perfect for first-timers or people looking for a relaxing cruise through nature and the open countryside.