📺 Canal-Based TV Programmes That Celebrate Life on the Waterways

17 October 2025

Must-Watch Shows for Narrowboat Lovers and Armchair Cruisers

There’s something irresistibly charming about Britain’s canals — the slow pace, the scenic beauty, the rich history — and it’s no wonder that this has translated so beautifully onto the small screen. Whether you’re planning your next canal boat holiday or simply dreaming of one from your sofa, these canal-based TV programmes offer inspiration, education, and plenty of scenic escapism.

Here are some of our favourite shows that celebrate life on the UK’s inland waterways.

🚤 1. Great Canal Journeys

Channel 4 / More4

This beloved series is a staple for canal lovers. Originally hosted by actors Timothy West and Prunella Scales, the show follows the couple as they journey by narrowboat through Britain’s canals — and further afield into Europe and India.

Beautifully shot with plenty of history and heart
Offers insight into the practicalities of cruising
A touching portrait of their relationship, especially as Prunella navigates memory loss

Where to watch: Channel 4 online / Amazon Prime

🛥️ 2. Canal Boat Diaries

BBC Four / iPlayer

Hosted by Robbie Cumming, this down-to-earth series follows a solo boater navigating the UK’s canals aboard his narrowboat, Naughty Lass. It’s as raw and real as boating gets.

Honest look at liveaboard life, complete with engine trouble and weather woes
Great for understanding the ups and downs of the towpath
Filled with canal trivia, lock operation, and scenic views

Where to watch: BBC iPlayer

⚙️ 3. Narrowboat Afloat (YouTube Series)

YouTube Channel by David Johns

While not a traditional TV programme, this long-running YouTube channel offers an addictive mix of solo travel, boat reviews, and life advice for anyone dreaming of narrowboat life.

Great for potential boat buyers or hire holidaymakers
Friendly and informative tone
Over 300 episodes covering much of the canal network

Where to watch: Cruising the Cut on YouTube

🏰 4. Rick Stein’s Canal Journey in France

BBC Two / iPlayer

In a slight twist, this show follows celebrity chef Rick Stein as he explores French canals, tying in the romance of slow travel with delicious food and drink.

Great for fans of gastronomy and gentle boating
Inspires dreams of European canal adventures
Still shares similarities with British narrowboat cruising

Where to watch: BBC iPlayer

🗺️ 5. Britain by Narrowboat

Together TV

This charming series follows two couples, both brand-new to boating, as they swap their city lives for a floating home and cruise across the UK.

Good mix of entertainment and practical insight
Explores the reality of adapting to life on the water
Features popular routes including the Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Where to watch: Together TV / Amazon Prime

🎥 Honourable Mentions

Escape to the Country – occasionally features canal homes or houseboats
George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces – includes creative canal boat conversions
Countryfile – regularly highlights UK canal regions and boating culture

🛶 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or just canal-curious, these shows are the perfect way to explore life on the water from the comfort of your home. From historical engineering feats to the joys (and trials) of living afloat, these programmes celebrate what makes the UK’s waterways so special.

So put the kettle on, sit back, and enjoy a virtual journey along some of the country’s most beautiful canals.

Have a favourite canal TV show or YouTube channel we’ve missed? Let us know in the comments — we love a good recommendation!

Myself and my nanna had the best time on the canal boat, the food was absolutely delicious and we couldn’t have asked for a better day the weather was perfect. The gentleman doing the tour (didn’t catch his name sorry) was so knowledgeable and was very funny. He was really accommodating for my nanna as well as she isn’t the most steady on her feet, he helped her on and off the boat and helped her up and down the stairs which I can’t thank him enough for. Would highly recommend doing this tour and it’s in such a beautiful area. Will definitely be doing it again!

Li L

Experienced a wonderful autumn cruise along the canal here with Skipper Mark who shared all his amazing experiences and knowledge of the area and canal along the way. Highly recommend this if you’re in the area.

Steven H

Our family of four hired a 6-berth boat and cruised from Burscough to Wigan and back. The boat was great, the route was lovely, and the service from Lancashire Canal Cruises was superb—special thanks to Marc, who was incredibly helpful. Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ben M

Amazing experience!
As first-time canal boaters, we were a bit nervous, but Richard made the whole process easy and enjoyable. He spent a couple of hours with us on the water, guiding us through everything until we felt completely comfortable handling the boat, mooring, and using all the onboard features. We spent two nights aboard and had an absolutely brilliant time—cruising between pubs for meals, spotting a kingfisher, and taking in the beautiful Lancashire countryside. The boat was spotless and had everything we needed.
10/10 – highly recommend! Thanks again to Lancashire Canal Cruises!

Matthew S

What a fantastic afternoon with the fabulous Marc as our skipper. This trip is worth every penny so if you've not done it or are considering booking on one of the experiences then do it! you will have a great time. Marc is brilliant sharing all the history and stories of canal life and the surrounding areas. Thank you Marc for making our trip truly special! 🤗

Pamela W

Really Enjoyed today's canal ride. Was made to feel at ease when I was nervous on the water. Amazing views & a lovely Afternoon tea. Got to steer the boat and wear the captains hat 😁. And the guy even made time to rescue someone's Memorial bench after it had been blown into the water 💙

Debbie H

We chartered a private hire cruise for 3hrs for my Mums 80th birthday and it was just perfect. Our Skipper Tori was fantastic, she really played along with the kids and kept them involved. The weather was rubbish but we didn't let it ruin the experience, all having a go at steering the boat and helping with the swing bridge.
We took our own food, drink and decorations and nothing was any bother. Would definitely recommend this trip.

Amy K

Everything was perfect from booking to the trip. Great communication.
Lovely afternoon tea.
The gentleman was friendly & had a great knowledge of the canal & surroundings.
Perfect start to my friends 40th Birthday celebrations.

Annmaria S

Just got back from an amazing cruise with afternoon tea with this company. The food was lovely and fresh!
The skipper, Mark was lovely and professional! He was so naturally friendly and explained everything about the history of barges and the area. He was so knowledgeable. The cruise itself was beautiful and relaxing.

Leah J

What a wonderful experience! Mark was such a great host, very kind and helpful. We miss our trip because of car crash on the road, he not only accommodate us on the next trip but he make us fresh afternoon tea and he place us in the best part of the boat! I can’t explain what a wonderful people and what a experience we had ! Truly amazing! Definitely try for yourself !!! Thank you Mark! See you soon!

Plamena D