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Kennet Horse Boat Company

Kintbury, United Kingdom•4.9(82)•Country Park

Explore the Kennet and Avon Canal with nostalgic horse-drawn barge journeys or self-drive narrowboat adventures perfect for families.

Kennet Horse Boat Company offers a unique escape into the English countryside with two leisurely ways to experience one of England's finest canals. Visitors can choose between charming horse-drawn barge trips lasting two to three hours, operating seven days a week from Easter through September, or self-drive day hire on a traditional 9-meter narrowboat accommodating groups of up to eight people. The horse-drawn trips provide a nostalgic journey through scenic pastoral landscapes, with the option to relax as a gentle horse pulls the barge along the towpath. Those seeking more independence can hire the Cygnet, a beautifully specified narrowboat offering excellent views and the flexibility to explore at their own pace, available most of the year. Both experiences showcase the slower pace of yesteryear and the natural beauty of the Berkshire countryside. The venue caters to families, including school groups and special occasions like birthday celebrations. Dog-friendly facilities make it accessible for pet owners, and catering options are available. Additionally, the company offers a unique glamping experience with shepherd's huts set on ten acres of pastureland in Hamstead Marshall, located walking distance from the canal and nearby attractions like Highclere Castle and Hungerford.
OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Opening Hours

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:30
Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:30
Thursday: 10:00 – 17:30
Friday: 10:00 – 17:30
Saturday: 10:00 – 17:30
Sunday: 10:00 – 17:30

Venue Details

Venue Type

Indoor & Outdoor

Typical visit duration

All day

Booking

Walk-in

What this place offers

ToiletsToilets
Public transportPublic transport nearby
Accessible toilets
Free WiFi
Baby changingBaby changing facilities
Food available
On-site parking
🐕Dog-friendly
Parking nearby
Pushchair friendlyPushchair friendly

☕ Food & Drink

Catering

Food and beverage service available for boat trips and private charters

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Google Reviews

4.9(82 reviews)
K
Kim Bayley

Kim Bayley

a month ago

What a fabulous way to spend a few hours. The owners make everything appear seamless when, in reality, it's hard work. The boat is immaculate. The horses are so well looked after and are very impressive. Had a very generous and well packaged Ploughman's lunch. Will be a happy memory for a long while.

P
PiHe19

PiHe19

3 months ago

Amazing experience, didn’t know what to expect but it was amazingly peaceful just hearing the tapping of the horse shoes as you are pulled along the canal. The skill and old practices these guys have keeping the boat moving and the locks going is amazing. Very knowledgable staff that pass this on to you and a lovely little bar on board with drinks snacks and souvenirs. Had a really nice time on board. Thank you

S
Shaun Doggett

Shaun Doggett

11 months ago

Wow what a lovely trip,so tranquil and relaxing ,went on coach trip.lovely cream tea ..even catered for my wife who is gluten free… A bar and toilet facilities on board ,..all staff very friendly … Even went through lock before turning round,chance to stretch legs and see horse and how lock works up close … Would highly recommend…

R
Richard Petts

Richard Petts

11 months ago

Thank you so much Steve, Sue, Jenny & Crew for the most wonderful experience today. Very relaxing drifting along the canal peacefully while enjoying the countryside in this beautiful county. Lovely to meet you all and thank you for making our trip really special with interesting facts and looking after us all, we would definitely recommend this delightful trip to anyone visiting or staying in the area.

C
Chloe Muir

Chloe Muir

a year ago

We hired the self drive cygnet canal boat for a family day out and 3 May birthdays in our family....let's say we had a BLAST! Steve was brilliant, helped us understand how to pass through the lock before we set off. Very easy and a peaceful trip along the canal with some great views. Fantastic day, would recommend to anyone wanting to try something new and spend some time outdoors!🌞☘️🥂⚓️

Reviews last updated: 7 October 2026

Events at Kennet Horse Boat Company

No upcoming events scheduled

Check back soon for new events at this venue.

This venue was last updated on 7 October 2026

Frequently asked questions about Kennet Horse Boat Company

Is Kennet Horse Boat Company free to visit?

Kennet Horse Boat Company is a paid attraction — see the official website for current ticket prices.

Is Kennet Horse Boat Company dog-friendly?

Yes, dogs are welcome at Kennet Horse Boat Company.

Is there parking at Kennet Horse Boat Company?

Kennet Horse Boat Company doesn't have parking — public transport is recommended.

Is there food at Kennet Horse Boat Company?

Yes — Catering is on site at Kennet Horse Boat Company. Food and beverage service available for boat trips and private charters

Is Kennet Horse Boat Company pushchair-friendly?

Kennet Horse Boat Company isn't the easiest for pushchairs, prams or buggies — stairs or uneven terrain may make a baby carrier a better option.

How long should we plan to spend at Kennet Horse Boat Company?

Kennet Horse Boat Company is a full-day experience — plan accordingly.

How do I get to Kennet Horse Boat Company by public transport?

Kennet Horse Boat Company isn't on a major public transport route — driving is recommended.
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