We've teamed up with hire boat consortium, Drifters, to offer Roy Hodgson and his squad of players a free week on a narrow boat, with canals offering the space, tranquillity and slower pace of life that could be perfect for unwinding after the stresses of yet another early departure from football's biggest tournament.
With over 2,000 miles of waterways across the country, there are plenty of routes for the players to choose from. Those based in the south could unwind on the beautiful 200-year old Kennet & Avon Canal which runs from Berkshire to Bath, or the Grand Union Canal which traverses through the scenic Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire countryside. Those based in the north could choose from any number of the region's waterway gems, such as the Ripon Canal or the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.
Get away from it all
Simon Salem from the Canal & River Trust says: “Going out of the World Cup may not be the end of the world, but it probably feels like it at the moment. With the eyes of a disappointed nation on the squad, the players probably feel like getting away from it all - and what better way to do it than escaping to a beautiful and relaxing canal. We'd be happy to advise any of the team on a quiet, calming route for them and their family and would encourage them to get in touch if they're interested.”
Nigel Stevens, Drifters director, adds: “Canal boat holidays are often described as the fastest way to slow down. After months of gruelling training, followed by the disappointment of defeat, an escape through the English countryside by canal could be just what the doctor ordered."
