Call Us Now: 0116 2792285
E-mail: foxtonboats@btinternet.com
All trips start from the bottom of the famous Foxton flight of 10 locks, right outside the Bridge 61 pub and there is plenty to see as you travel through the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, with fields full of livestock, abundant wildlife, flora & fauna.
‘Vagabond II’ is our second trip vessel due to the sad retirement of our original vintage motor launch ‘Vagabond’, which had been with us for over 40 years! ‘Vagabond II’ is a steel vessel (the original ‘Vagabond’ was wooden) with a fixed roof and open sides. This gives you a great view but it can mean that it may get cold (especially in the open countryside) so ensure you wrap up warm on chillier days! The driver is situated at the front of the boat and there are wooden benches, most of which are back to back, for seating (you might like to bring a cushion for longer trips). There is no toilet or washing facilities on board.
The boat is accessed by stepping up on to the rear of the vessel (2 steps), and down a further four narrow steps, with a handrail either side, into the cabin area.
Reduced Mobility Passengers: Whilst we support access and assistance for reduced mobility passengers, please be advised that ‘Vagabond II’ was built in 1972 and was never designed specifically to accommodate such passengers. Furthermore, the design provenance of the vessel does not lend itself to adaption. ‘Vagabond II’ has the following limitations for people with reduced mobility:
Being mindful of the above, it still may be possible to carry some reduced mobility passengers if they are accompanied by a personal carer. The crew, where possible, will make every effort to assist with this, however, should the Captain consider that any such passengers may be at risk in an emergency situation, then they do have the right to refuse passage. Your safety is always our top priority!
Should you decide that the boat is not for you, you can enjoy a refreshing drink or snack at the Bridge 61 pub, wave off your family and friends and watch the world go by while you wait for their return.
Trips run from Foxton Bottom Lock on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays afternoons from April to October. Whether these trips run or not is also often governed by the weather so if you need to know whether we are operating or not, please call on the morning of the day and we will be able to advise. The trips last approx. 30 minutes and no pre-booking or tickets are necessary, simply hop onto the boat and someone will come around and collect your fare. The prices are Adults £6.00, Children £4.00 and dogs go free! Infants under 1 year old are not charged for if they do not take up a seat. Cash or Card Payments (not American Express) taken on board.
For your info with regard to car parking at Foxton Locks:-
The site is freely accessible to the public all year round and you will find it open every day. The nearest parking is in the Canal & River Trust Pay and display car parks. Please see their website https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/foxton-locks for current parking charges. Although you should be able to pay by phone, often this facility isn’t working so please ensure you have some change with you as banks charge businesses for change!
