Last instalment in our series of fun and quirky things to see and do while cruising out of our marinas – this week it’s Gayton.

Set in the rolling Northamptonshire countryside, Gayton Marina is probably one of the most conveniently located in the whole of England with route choices to fit any cruise timetable. From 3-night hops to Crick or Milton Keynes (yes, some people do actually want to go there!) all the way to three weeks on the Grand Ring itself, there’s something for everyone.
As most of you will be holidaying for a week, then top of our list would probably be the 7-nighter to Warwick Castle, on part of the Grand Union Canal, passing Brockhall Park with it’s Heart of the Shires Shopping village, traversing the 2000-yard-long Braunston Tunnel and then Royal Leamington Spa and finally Warwick itself.

Warwick is packed full of fascinating historical sites and the Castle has jousts, shows, evening entertainment and lots more – check out the Warwick Castle website and find out what’s on when you’re passing.

If you’re up for a shorter jaunt, then Rugby is a beautiful market town (and a great place to stock up with supplies) and of course, the birthplace of rugby itself – the Pathway of Fame is a must-do for any fans of the sport.

And did we mention that Milton Keynes was one of the tour options? Well, this is a bit of a “don’t judge” cruise, as the journey is something of an eye-opener! Blisworth Tunnel is over 3000 yards of engineering skill and Stoke Bruerne, home to the Canal Museum, is one of the best examples of a canal village in the country. The stunning Georgian Iron Trunk Aqueduct carries the canal over the River Ouse and if the kids (or you!) are feeling the need for physical activity, moor up in the lovely medieval village of Great Linford, and take the bus into Milton Keynes itself. Try out indoor skydiving, skiing (yes, honestly) , trampoline parks and more at Xscape and for something a little more cerebral, Bletchley Park, home to the Codebreakers of World War 2 is on your doorstep.

Gayton is at the heart of the canal network and offers first timers and old hands alike a glorious variety of options, sights and things to do – and yes, Milton Keynes too!