Places To Go Punting in England

Punting in England is Popular, and It’s Easy To See Why

Are you looking for a place to go punting in England?

Gliding along a river or canal in a punt is a relaxing way to take in the sights and sounds of the countryside.

Nothing quite compares to the sensation of sailing through the water in a punt. This applies whether you’re taking a leisurely trip or joining a guided punt tour.

There are many great places to go punting in the UK, but some are particularly noteworthy. Cambridge and Oxford are among the most popular punting destinations. They are famed for their beautiful waterways and ancient architecture. Stratford-upon-Avon is also a must-visit spot to go punting for those interested in William Shakespeare and his work. Many of the legendary writer’s plays are set on the Avon River banks.

Another great place to go punting to see gorgeous scenery is Canterbury, home to picturesque cobblestone streets and stunning cathedral views. And finally, East London is an excellent spot for urban punters who want to explore a hip and lively cityscape on their paddling adventures.

Whether you’re looking for history, culture, or just something fun to do on a day off, there’s no doubt that punting is one of the best ways to experience this wonderful country.

Punting can be a fantastic way to spend a day out and England has plenty of options. These are some of the best spots that provide a punting service in England. But as always, feel free to get in touch with any questions.

Where Can You Punt in England?

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Visiting Cambridge on a Traditional Punt

Punting in Cambridge is the perfect way to explore the historic city all whilst enjoying the River Cam on a traditional punt, an ideal way to see this beautiful place.

When joining a chauffeured punting tour, you can be sure to see the entire stretch of the College Backs, 2 miles of architecturally significant buildings, prestigious colleges, exclusive bridges, and secret gardens.

During your tour along the River Cam, you will see some of Cambridge’s most iconic sites and your chauffeur will provide commentary throughout to ensure that you will walk away with a head full of knowledge, historical facts and funny stories. And – of course – an insight into local culture.

Cambridge University is world-renowned, which means that the city is full of fascinating buildings, museums and gardens to explore. Is there any better way to do this than to glide down the river on a traditional punt? Perhaps not.

The details

The full guided tour takes approximately 50 minutes. Also, customers can choose between a shared or private experience to best suit their group size and budget. Since punting in Cambridge is one of the top-rated activities to do whilst visiting this city, booking in advance is recommended. This is due to its popularity and cheaper rates are also available online compared to purchasing tickets on the day at the sales desk. If opting for a Cambridge punting tour, make sure to go with a reputable company to avoid any disappointment.

For the brave and confident folks out there, there is also the option to go for a self-hire punt in Cambridge. First and foremost it is a prerequisite that you can swim as although punting looks deceptively easy to do, this is definitely not the case.

Punting on the River Cam is a quintessentially British experience – and it’s a lot of fun, too. So if you’re looking to book Cambridge punting tours, be sure to click here. You won’t regret it!

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Cambridge Might Have the Monopoly on Punting, but Oxford Is a Close Second.

Traditional punting Oxford is the perfect way to explore the city. You can hire your own punt or book through a company to have a tour guide punt you along. 

Oxford guided punting tours are charged by the half hour for small private groups only. An experienced trained punter, who will be standing inside the boat (instead of on the till), can take up to 4 passengers out onto the River Cherwell on a smaller handcrafted Oxford punt. It will cost £35 per 30 mins, Monday to Friday and £40 per 30 mins, weekends and bank holidays.

If instead you are feeling adventurous, you can take it upon yourself to paddle out under your own power and leave the driver behind. You can explore the meadows, gardens and countryside without haste during a sunny afternoon. 

So why not book a tour guide of Oxford today and experience this iconic city like never before.

 

Explore Stratford-upon-Avon From the River

Punting in Stratford-Upon-Avon offers a range of transport along the river, not just traditional wooden punts! You can book motor boats, rowing boats or go on a river tour to explore the Avon. Just in case you needed more options!

If you choose punting, however, they even offer the traditional Cambridge-style punt that can hold up to 12 people. You can punt yourself to explore the uninterrupted and unique views from the river or simply take a peaceful trip into the countryside. You can book canoes and punts in advance and also hire a ‘Waterman’, similar to a punt chauffeur that you might find in Cambridge but without the commentary. 

However, if you opt for a different vessel the motor boats and rowing boats cannot be reserved. So keep in mind: they work on a first come first served basis.

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Take a Punt in the Heart of Canterbury.

Punting in Canterbury is another way to see the heart of a wonderful and historic city. Due to the low hanging bridges it is not possible to punt yourself here. So, you are stuck with a punter doing the work for you! You will see the beautiful Blackfriars Monastery and the 13th century chapel of Greyfairs and so much more on a guided tour of the River Stour.

The chauffeured tours operate similarly to those in Cambridge lasting approximately 45 minutes. Also, they follow a route that is not accessible by foot. You can also book online and on the day with their sales representatives to join a shared or private punt tour

 

Explore East London on a Relaxing Punting tour

Who knew that you could go punting in London? Whilst London is the birthplace of punting – it is not necessarily known for its peace and tranquillity. Punting on the canals will take you away from the hustle and bustle. The canal route is limited as punts can only go between Mile End Lock to Top Lock by Victoria Park, about two miles, which will allow you to see east London from a very different point of view. You can hire a punt on a per hour basis. The seating is up to 6 people with the all-important pole, two paddles and life jackets. Unlike Cambridge and Oxford, punting is not as popular so the river is rarely busy. Perfect for you to bring a picnic and drink along for the ride.

 

Enjoy an Unforgettable Experience With a Punting Trip.

Punting is a quintessentially British pastime that can be enjoyed in multiple locations around the UK. Everyone has options, whether you choose to punt yourself along the river or take a guided tour. With beautiful scenery and historic landmarks, punting offers a unique perspective on some of the most picturesque areas of the UK. What’s not to love?

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!

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Posted on September 22nd, 2023, by the Traditional Punting Company