Planning an event

The waterways are great places to hold an event. With over 2,000 miles of canals and navigable rivers across the country you’ll be spoilt for choice whatever you are planning. Throughout the year hundreds of events take place - from sponsored walks to bike rides, canoe challenges to dragon boat racing, duck races to festivals - the waterways offer something for all event organisers.

All events, on the water or adjacent towpath, require British Waterways’ agreement to take place and ideally a minimum of three months notice. This helps us ensure the event is planned safely, that it does not clash with other events or maintenance work and that the needs of our regular customers can be considered.

To apply for permission to hold your event, just follow the steps below.

• Step One - Event application form
• Step Two - Risk assessment
• Step Three - Public liability insurance
• Step Four - Event agreement (terms & conditions, this is for us to issue)

All information should be provided electronically to the local waterway contact for the area in which the event is planned.