TAKE A TRIP ON THE KENAVON VENTURE

Take a leisurely trip along a section the Kennet and Avon Canal, one of Britain's prettiest canals, on the Kenavon Venture. You can choose from daytime or evening trips, some with music and a lively quiz as an added attraction. The pace of progress makes this trip perfect for the Slow Traveller.

The famous Caen locks feature in some of the trips on the Kenavon Venture

The Kenavon Venture is a purpose built public trip boat on the Kennet and Avon Canal operating from The Wharf in Devizes. The boat is 60 feet long,10 feet wide and has spacious seating for up to 40 passengers. It is operated by volunteers of the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust. A licensed bar, refreshments and a toilet are available on board.

The Trust runs both afternoon and evening trips, the schedule depending on the time of year. The day trips stop at Caen Locks to allow for visits and walks along the dramatic stretch of locks and a stop for ice cream at the canalside café.

Slow Travel joined an evening trip in the autumn, beginning by enjoying the last rays of sunshine, passing well tended gardens at the start of the route. We then chugged tranquilly and slowly along, delighting in glimpses of the canal’s wildlife and flora and listening to the knowledgeable volunteers talk about the origins and history of the canal.

Runners, walkers, cyclists and families were enjoying the towpath. Kayaks and canoes slid past. Swans took an interest in our passage. Many of the canal boats were brightly painted in traditional colours – one with a good crop of runner beans and herbs on the roof. The boat stopped for a delivery of fish/veggie burgers and chips on board - which were quickly distributed, steaming hot and very tasty.

As night fell, attention turned to a light-hearted but quite challenging quiz set by the crew for the assorted passengers. It was gentle, amusing fun and we were soon back at Devizes Wharf to end the trip.

A TRIP ON THE KENAVON VENTURE

How to get there

The MV Kenavon Venture is moored on the wharf at Devizes, close to the Kennet and Avon Canal Trust museum.

Postcode: SN10 1EB.

Pay and Display public car parking is available on the wharf.

How much does it cost for a trip?

Prices vary according to season and the type of trip on offer. Please visit the website >>

Are there any facilities at Devizes Wharf?

Shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants are all available locally.