Imagine waking up on Christmas morning to frosty towpaths, still waters and the gentle glow of lights from a pretty waterside pub – all from the cosy comfort of your own narrowboat. Or perhaps seeing in the New Year moored up somewhere special, with Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon or Chester just a stroll away.

If you fancy swapping the usual festive routine for something a little different this year, a winter escape on Britain’s peaceful canal network could be rather magical. Think crisp morning walks along the towpath, afternoons exploring historic towns and villages, a warming drink beside the fire in a canalside pub, then back on board to snuggle up as the winter evening draws in.