Hidden Hertfordshire

Enjoy a hearty lunch and a relaxing river cruise

 

We will arrive at the Waterside Inn in Ware where you can enjoy a hearty two course lunch.

 

The Waterside Inn has been a recognised riverside pub for decades, serving walkers, boaters and locals on the River Lee Navigation, a waterway engineered in the 18th century to carry goods between Hertfordshire and London. Its location beside the towpath made it a natural stopping point for barge crews and, later, leisure boaters.

 

The pub’s existence is tied to Ware’s long history as a malt producing town, where barges once transported malt to London breweries. Inns along the river traditionally served workers and travellers on this route, and the Waterside Inn is part of that heritage

 

In December 2021, the Waterside Inn underwent a £300,000 refurbishment, preserving its traditional character while updating the interior and expanding its all weather riverside garden. This investment marked a new chapter, enhancing its role as a scenic dining spot for both locals and visitors.

 

After lunch you will board your boat directly from the restaurants own riverside terrace to embark on a fully guided cruise through the hidden Hertfordshire countryside,

 

On the cruise you will pass the unique Ware gazebos that overhang the rivers edge before cruising through the contrasting town centre and the beautiful Lee Valley‘s Amwell Nature Reserve, traversing Hardmead Lock before returning back to Ware Town Quay next to the historic Ware Priory.

 

We will spend a leisurely one and a half hours over lunch before enjoying your two and a half hour canal boat cruise.

 

Free Car Parking is available at our Depot when you book Arlesey Pick Up (Advance Booking is required)

 

OUR TOP TIPS

 

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife

The Amwell Nature Reserve is an RSPB site, so expect herons, kingfishers, terns, cormorants and—if you’re lucky—a glimpse of bitterns or marsh harriers.

Binoculars make the experience even better.

 

Bring a camera for reflections and river life

The still water often creates mirror like reflections of the sky and foliage.

Early afternoon light is especially good for photos.

 

Look out for historic features along the Lea

You’ll pass old towpaths, lockside cottages, and glimpses of the New River.

It’s a gentle reminder of Hertfordshire’s waterway heritage.