Kennet Today

After Kennet was refurbished in 2012 through a Heritage Lottery Grant it started a new era of carrying its cargo of heritage to the communities along the length of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The hold now houses displays about the Heritage of the Canal, its boats and boat people. In the bow is a Boatman’s cabin which you can enter to witness the conditions of life aboard.  The engine room is also viewable at the stern.

Due to the length of the Canal, Kennet primarily travels east or west in alternate years. However, Kennet did travel the full length of the Canal as part of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal Bicentenary Celebrations in 2016. Each year an outline programme is established based around key Festivals on the Canal.  Kennet is open to the public at such events. This programme is expanded with openings for schools and organisations who are interested in learning about the Canal and its heritage.

Kennet’s hold area has been designed to be flexible as to how it can be used. To date, Kennet’s hold has been used for small arts performances, films, illustrated talks, and private functions. We are always looking for new ways that Kennet can be used when moored. If you or your organisation are interested in using Kennet while it is in your area, or for more information please contact us.

Please note that due to insurance restrictions Kennet cannot be used for functions when it is moving.