Blog: Stay-with-us

When Ty-Two arrived at Great Haywood Marina, she was a blank canvas waiting to be reimagined. It took just a few short weeks for Ty-Two’s new owners to turn their vision into reality. With fresh paintwork, clever reconfiguration, and a keen sense of style, they’ve transformed her interior into a space that feels modern yet full of character.

Owning a canal boat, whether a traditional narrowboat or a spacious widebeam, is a dream for many. It offers a unique lifestyle of freedom, tranquillity, and connection with nature. But how much does it actually cost to own a boat in the UK? If you're thinking about buying a narrowboat or widebeam, this guide will help you understand the real costs involved - beyond just the initial purchase price.

If you’re a boater who loves life on the water with your furry first mate, Crick Boat Show 2025 is the event you won’t want to miss. This year, Lakeland Leisure Estates is proud to introduce the very first Paws Aboard Dog Awards - a heartwarming celebration of dogs who cruise the canals and explore towpaths alongside their owners.

Whether you're dreaming of a slow-paced life on a narrowboat or looking for a holiday craft to explore Britain's inland waterways, buying a boat is an exciting step. But with so many options - from shared ownership to custom builds - it can also feel overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll explore the different ways to buy a boat in the UK, including second-hand boats, shared ownership, DIY fit-outs and more. If you’re looking for tips for first-time boat buyers, this post has everything you need to know.

Behind every beautifully crafted narrowboat is a dedicated builder with a passion for the waterways. Meet Tiffany Gale-Haynes, the driving force behind Kingsground. From childhood memories along the canal towpaths to becoming a key figure in the boatbuilding industry, Tiffany shares her inspiring journey, the craftsmanship behind Kingsground boats, and her vision for the future.

Discover the incredible transformation of 'Moth,' a Steve Hudson narrowboat sold by Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales and beautifully renovated by Kingsground Narrowboats. See the stunning results, including luxurious custom wood features, copper diesel stove, and more!

Discover how Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales made waves at the UK's largest indoor boat show, BoatLife, with the swift sale of the exclusive narrowboat Beatrice, crafted by Kingsground Boat Builders. Read about the success and what makes Beatrice a sought-after masterpiece in the leisure boating industry.

Discover why Adam Floating Home's collaboration with Lakeland Leisure Marinas went viral, attracting half a million views. Explore the allure of marina living, leisure mooring and continuous cruising.

Discover the beauty of Barton Marina at our Open Day on August 5, 2023. Enjoy live performances, boat activities, and delicious food while exploring mooring and boat sales options. Sign up before the event for a chance to win exciting prizes and contribute to local charities. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a memorable day by the waterfront.

Renowned boat brokerage service provider Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales is pleased to announce its partnership with Geomac Limited's three marinas: Shakespeare Marina in Warwickshire, Caen Hill Marina in Wiltshire and Northwich Quay Marina in Cheshire. This collaboration expands Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales' brokerage portfolio, bringing their industry-leading services to a wider audience. With their expert sales team, Lakeland Leisure Boat Sales aims to assist buyers and sellers in finding their perfect boats.

Explore living on a boat with our in-depth guide to narrowboat life, covering affordability, sustainability, and the joys of waterborne living.

We are excited to introduce Barton Marina on the Trent & Mersey Canal as our newest member of the Lakeland Leisure family. Barton is our fifth inland marina and the very first to offer residential moorings.

Seeking the perfect autumn escape? Look no further than Roydon Marina Village, a stunning holiday park in the heart of the Lee Valley Regional Park, surrounded with picturesque scenery and a variety of activities and attractions.

As the nights start to set in and the days become shorter, you may start to consider where to moor this winter. Look no further that Tattenhall Marina where a winter mooring, provides a safe and secure place to shelter over the colder months. Situated in the heart of rural Cheshire and occupying a stunning location just 9 miles from the historic city of Chester, the Marina offers berths ranging from 30ft to 70 ft. Moorings start from just £432 for a three-month period.

Are you interested in sailing a narrowboat for the first time, but not sure what you need to know? This guide covers advice from the Canal & River Trust all about the basics of how to handle your boat, so that you can take to the waterways with confidence. A day on the water offers a truly wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, enjoy quality time with family and friends, and explore another side to the charming British countryside. If you are hiring one of our narrowboats at Saul Junction or Tattenhall Marina, our team will give you full instructions on the use and handling of your vessel, and the safety features on-board.