Moorings on the River Witham

The River Witham is one of the most distinctive navigable rivers in eastern England, flowing 128 kilometres from its source near Grantham through the cathedral city of Lincoln and out across the Fens to Boston and the Wash. The navigation is a working waterway managed largely by the Environment Agency, with broad straight reaches across the South Lincolnshire flatlands that feel more continental than English. For boat owners, the Witham offers a rare combination — genuine river cruising with sea-going access at Boston, plus a through route via the Fossdyke Navigation to the River Trent and the rest of the inland network. Lincoln sits at its historic heart, with Brayford Pool providing a vibrant city-centre mooring overlooked by the cathedral and castle. Long-stay berths are available at Brayford Pool Marina, Boston Marina and several smaller boatyards along the route, with informal moorings popular with liveaboards seeking peace. The river suits wider beam craft as well as narrowboats, with locks (notably Bardney and Stamp End) of generous dimensions. Anglers, birders and history-minded cruisers will all find plenty along the route — Tattershall Castle, Woodhall Spa and the Witham washlands are highlights. Tidal sections below Boston require careful planning. Reasonable road and rail connections via Lincoln, Sleaford and Boston make the Witham a practical liveaboard base.