On a recent trip to London we stayed at the Permier Inn in Paddington Basin, an ever growing area which has been regenerated in the last two decades to create a creative and vibrant place to explore, that runs along the canals near Paddington Station. A short walk from the basin you will find Little Venice, this popular spot is worth the hype, with canal boats, waterside cafes and tree line streets, this is an area we have always enjoyed visiting.
For the first time however we got the chance to explore Little Venice and Regents canal from the water with GoBoat, offering a whole new perspective and experience of one of our favourite spots in the capital city.
GoBoat Paddington offers self-drive boat hire on their eco-friendly electric boats that have room for up to 8 people, which makes it very reasonable when you split the cost between so many for such a unique experience. You don't need a boat licence and they teach you everything you need to know to be able to enjoy the waterways at your own pace.
The boats all have picnic tables so do take snacks, although Paddington Basin is alcohol-free location which is for the best as you are sharing the waterways with houseboats and other vessels. The also ofcourse provide boyancy aids and children are welcome to join although the driver must be over 18. My boys absolutely loved seeing London from the water.
We were very lucky with a gloriously sunny day that meant we could really soak in how beautiful Little Venice is (my dream is to live on a houseboat one day) as well as taking in all the sights of Paddington Basin, Maida Vale and the Maida Vale tunnel, Regents park with glimpses of London Zoo and Camden lock.
Once you get to grips with the basics of the boat such a steering, stopping and reversing, it's a very relaxing and feels like a world away from the busy and bustling streets of London and it's such a unique way to see the city.
I highly recommend this and you can also share the cost amongst a group of friends or family. Currently prices for up to 8 people are from - 1hr £65, 2hrs £89 and 3hrs £119
* Disclosure - we were kindly invited to try out GoBoat in Paddington in exchange for an honest review. Words and thoughts 100% my own. AD
What a fun trip this would be. I love doing small boat trips through areas.
ReplyDeleteOh, wow. I can see why it's called Little Venice. I would love to see it one day, especially by boat!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely way to explore this adorable part of London! It's definitely on our bucket list now
ReplyDeleteI've been to Venice a few years ago and loved it...I would love to go back to this charming and beautiful city.
ReplyDeleteWe've done a similar boat trips along the river and it was such a nice experience. You see things so differently on the river x
ReplyDeleteYou have great photos! Looks like you had a good time and awesome experience with the go boat. Definitely a must do when exploring little venice.
ReplyDeleteExploring Little Venice by boat sounds like such a unique and peaceful experience! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteIt is so cool that you get to drive the boat yourself! I Would love to expereince this.
ReplyDeleteExploring Little Venice sounds delightful! The Go Boat experience looks like a perfect way to see the area.
ReplyDeleteLittle venice looks like an awesome place to visit. Seeing London from such a spot is an amazing experience for sure.
ReplyDeleteI like reading about travel and see the photos of the experiences people have had. It is totally cool to explore vicariously as other people do it in person.
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness.... I am loving the Go Boat! What a great way to explore Venice and what a memeorable and ebautiful experience too!
ReplyDeleteIt’s been a while that I am planning to visit venice. Seems like Exploring Little Venice by go boat would be an incredible experience, especially on a sunny day. Gonna plan it soon
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