Maybe you’re into canals and narrowboats, or maybe you’d rather be on a motor boat or yacht, but you just can’t get down to the coast this weekend: These tips from the towpath will give you some unusual date ideas to impress the one you love this weekend.

Tunnel of Love

Boat-lovers in the West Midlands can enjoy discounted Dudley Tunnel cruises throughout February and March.

The Dudley Tunnel and Limestone Mines are a wonder of 18th century engineering with a history dating back 428 million years. During the 45-minute boat trip visitors can enjoy an on-board commentary, a music and light show in the Singing Cavern, a video show in Little Tess Cavern explaining how limestone was formed, and mannequin displays in Hurst Cavern depicting miners working during the 18th century.

For more information, booking and times, visit www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk or call 0121 557 6265. Dudley is not far from Birmingham, which as any canal enthusiast will know, has more canals than Venice!

Dirty Weekend in a Lock Chamber

At the pretty village of Stoke Bruerne, near Towcester, visitors are invited to take a look at the winter works happening around one of the drained locks.

At the free open weekend (11th to 12th February 2017) you can walk along the muddy bottom of the lock chamber, and learn about the repair works by chatting to the Trust’s experts and volunteers. A number of wooden lock gates in the flight are due to be replaced. I went to one of these events in Marsworth (pictured) and found it really interesting. This event also includes free angling taster sessions, and free canoeing taster sessions. Make a day of it by visiting the Canal Museum, taking a boat trip on ‘Charlie’, having a pub lunch and hear some storytelling, told by a working boater from the1800’s. There’s more information on the Canal and River Trust website.

Tying the Knot

If you’ve already popped the question to the love of your life, then what could be more romantic than a wedding fayre at Standedge Visitor Centre, near Huddersfield? This weekend on 12th February, the beautiful Thomas Bourne Venue room will be open to the public, filled with lots of local suppliers and a dedicated team, ready to discuss your special day. Couples can enjoy free entry, free parking and a free goody bag!

Located beneath the beautiful Pennine countryside, Standedge Tunnel is Britain's longest canal tunnel and is known as one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways. Explore deep into this unique Yorkshire attraction on an underground boat trip, stop for a bite to eat in the Watersedge cafe, or stroll around the wildlife garden and nature trail. This is definitely a venue to check out if you are a keen canal boater.

Desperately Seeking Boater With GSOH

Do you believe in love at first sight? When you bought your first boat did you instantly know that you had met The One?

The large number of photos on our websites often mean that boaters have an intuitive feeling they have found their perfect match, before making the journey to view the boat they are interested in. We want to help you find the boat that’s right for you – without having to go on dozens of dead-end ‘dates’ first. Think of us as a sort of lonely hearts club – for boats that are currently single!

If you feel ready to commit to a previously loved boat then checkout our easy search facility. Each boat has her own unique personality and is available for a date this Valentine’s Day.

Peggy Melmoth

PS. If you’re passionate about boats why not make 2017 the year you start a new career? We have some worldwide opportunities available.

700,000 registered boat buyers

Sell your boat twice as fast

260,000 unique visitors per month

1000+ boats sold per year

50+ Boatshed branches world-wide

Get more when you list with Boatshed

Why Listing with Boatshed is a Better Deal

Digital Boat Platform, Targeting Client Expectations, Boosts Sales

Boatshed Newsletter 2016

Market Report 2016

Joining Boatshed - Watch our latest video

Jumping in! - Notes from a new Boatshed Broker

Online Boat Auctions

Sell your boat

Search for a boat