Moorings on the Fossdyke Navigation

The Fossdyke Navigation holds a remarkable distinction — it is the oldest man-made waterway still in use anywhere in England, originally cut by the Romans around AD 120 to link the legionary fortress at Lincoln to the River Trent at Torksey. Today, this 18-kilometre canal remains a working part of the inland network, managed by the Canal & River Trust and forming a vital connector between the East Midlands and the Lincolnshire river system. The Fossdyke runs almost arrow-straight across the flat Lincolnshire fenland, with broad reaches that suit both narrowboats and wider beam craft. For boat owners, it serves three roles: a peaceful cruising waterway in its own right, a key through route between the Trent and the River Witham (and from there Boston and the Wash), and a practical liveaboard location with reasonable access to Lincoln. Long-stay moorings are available at Burton Waters Marina near Lincoln, Pyewipe Inn moorings, Saxilby and Torksey Lock, where the navigation joins the tidal Trent. The route passes through gentle countryside, alongside reed-fringed banks rich in wildlife, with occasional wide pools that double as yacht club bases. Lincoln itself, sitting at the eastern end via Brayford Pool, brings cathedral views, restaurants, university life and direct rail to London and Sheffield. The Fossdyke's straight, deep, low-traffic character makes it a hidden gem for boaters who value quiet over the chocolate-box bustle of the southern canals.