Modern life can be hectic, and everyone needs to escape the pressure. Some people reconnect with nature to relax, others crave an open space where a family can spend quality time together. For many, simply strolling in a picturesque location is enough to constitute some serious R&R.
The people of England and Wales have never been in greater need of a space to relax in. According to research carried out for the Canal & River Trust by YouGov last summer, out of 2,324 surveyed, 86% enjoy relaxing, but 41% don’t have the spare time to do it. Sadly, 69% said they relaxed by putting their feet up in front of the TV. But getting out in the open, and closer to nature, could be a better way to spend your downtime.
The waterways of England and Wales provide a haven on our doorstep, particularly important when spring arrives and we long to be outside. The network of canals and rivers in England and Wales stretches over 2,000 miles, flowing through tranquil countryside and vibrant cities. Most people are only a short distance away from a waterside location, wherever they live or work. Having somewhere to go when you need to clear your head is crucial, and a spot of water, whether it’s in a town centre or off the beaten track, provides the ideal spot.
Why waterways?
Whether you walk, cycle, picnic or lounge at the water’s edge, waterways provide an escape from everyday life and bring you closer to nature.
Waterside spaces offer simple – and free - pleasures, from feeding the ducks and spotting boats and barges with the kids, to stretching your legs and soaking up 200 years of history. You’ll find solace from the noise and chaos of busy, modern life and make some amazing memories in the process.
Rivers and canals offer brilliant learning opportunities for children too – where else could they see a kingfisher or an otter up close? And they are vital green corridors in areas where urbanisation is on the rise. Alive with plant and insect life, the waterways link up areas of habitat and fuel local eco-systems.
Care for canals and rivers
Canal & River Trust is the charity caring for these precious waterways. In the last century, more than 500 miles of waterways were lost forever and, without continuing maintenance and support, many more could fall into decline and disuse. The Trust carries out conservation work right along the waterways to preserve these unique habitats and the plants and animals they support, as well as inspiring visitors to make the most of such easily-accessible spaces.
As well as looking after the canals and rivers, Canal & River Trust is responsible for an enormous network of bridges, embankments, aqueducts, docks and reservoirs. Its work includes everything from improving towpaths for cyclists, to encouraging biodiversity by creating new wildlife habitats – and providing visitors with helpful advice, such as how to feed the ducks healthily.
The waterways make life better for people and create a vital sense of community and Canal & River Trust is committed to protecting them forever.
Find out how you could win £500 towards a canal boat holiday to explore England and Wales’s waterways.
Order your free booklet and duck food pouch
To help you and your brood enjoy your duck-feeding days out, Canal & River Trust has created a free booklet packed with duck feeding tips and lots of free fun activities for your little ones to enjoy. Text CANAL to 70060* for a copy and free Quacks Snacks pouch or order online from Canal & River Trust and find out more about the work undertaken by the charity to look after your wonderful waterways in England and Wales.
*This is a charity service for the Canal & River Trust. You will be charged one message at your standard network rate. CRT will be in touch to arrange delivery of your free guide and duck food pouch and to tell you more about their work. If you’d rather the CRT didn’t contact you again in the future, either via phone call or SMS message, please text NOCOMMS CRT to 70060. Charity number 1146792. First Floor North, Station House, 500 Elder Gate, Milton Keynes MK9 1BB.
