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| The canal boats. |
This beautiful neighbourhood is centred around the beginning of Regent's Canal, which flows into Regent's Park completing the last link in the Grand Union Canal between Birmingham and the Thames. Little Venice's wooden canal boats are long and narrow and painted in bright colours. Most of the boats are used as private homes, but some have been converted into cafes, bars and even galleries that exhibit works by young artists. The owners live on the boats year round. In the summer, a number of the boats are available for hire for a tour of the canals guided by a captain. You can hire the boats by the hour, half-day or day. The tours start near Paddington and end in Little Venice. En route, you can enjoy a break in Camden, famous for its pubs, cafes and market that sells a wide range of second hand clothes. The London Canal Museum is definitely worth a visit. Established in 1862 by the Carlo Gatti, the famous ice cream maker, the museum is housed in a former ice warehouse, and features the history of the ice trade and ice cream as well as the canals.
If canal boats aren't your thing
If you are not very interested in canals and canal boats, then we recommend that you enjoy a long walk along the canal. The canal is lined with stalls selling everything from history books to jewellery, home accessories to oil paintings, flowers to olives and pickles--and all at reasonable prices.Across the way, the other side of the canal is lined with young artists selling their handicrafts, photographers selling classic images of London landmarks, clowns entertaining children and people playing the guitar while sitting on the decks of the canal boats. If your path takes you to London, make sure to set aside at least half a day for a visit to Little Venice. This is the best way to enjoy a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle of London. Come here on a sunny day and while all your cares away.
For more information, visit:
www.canalmuseum.org.uk
www.waterscape.com
| Helpful hints... |
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* The price of renting a canal boat depends on the package you choose. * Little Venice is at its most crowded on Sundays. * The London Canal Museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00-16.30 and is closed on Mondays. * Admission to the museum costs around £3.00, but there is a discount for students and for senior citizens. |
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