Boating the Leicester Line

Please ensure you have booked in with the lock keeper before you enter Lock 1or 7. The lock keeper will either be on the flight, or in the Top Lock Keepers Hut. 

If you enter the locks without booking in, you may be required to back out, as other boats may be working the flight. 

Please follow any advice given by Trust representatives on site.

26 October 2025 - 28 March 2026

• Opening 9:30am 
• Last boat in 2.30pm

39 March - 27 June 2026

• Opening 8am
• Last boat in 5pm

28 June - 12 September 2026

• Opening 8am 
• Last boat in 6pm

13 September - 24 October 2026

• Opening 8am 
• Last boat in 5pm

25 October - 27 March 2027

• Opening 9:30am 
• Last boat in 2.30pm

26 October 2025 - 28 March 2026

• Opening 9:30am 
• Last boat in 2.30pm

39 March - 27 June 2026

• Opening 8am
• Last boat in 5pm

28 June - 12 September 2026

• Opening 8am 
• Last boat in 6pm

13 September - 24 October 2026

• Opening 8am 
• Last boat in 5pm

25 October - 27 March 2027

• Opening 9:30am 
• Last boat in 2.30pm

• All wide beam boat passage through Saddington Tunnel must be booked in advance so that the tunnel can be closed to other boat traffic. This is managed at either end of the tunnel by colleagues or volunteers to ensure safe passage. 
• Passage is available Monday to Friday. 
• Bookings can be made by phone on 0303 040 4040, selecting the option for the East Midlands region. Passage needs to be booked 48 hours in advance online or through the regional customer support team, which is available Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays). Or send an email to [email protected] 
• Wide beam boats must be ready at the entrance of the tunnel for 7:45am prompt. On arrival please wait for instructions from the Trust representative before proceeding through the tunnel. 
• We kindly request a minimum of 24 hours' notice for any cancellations.