Whilton Marina at Whilton LocksNear Daventry on the Grand Union Canal

Ideal Location on the Grand Union Canal

Whilton Marina is positioned beside Whilton Locks, near to the junction for the Leicester Line of the Grand Union Canal, just south of Watford Locks and east of Braunston. This places it at a strategic point on the canal network.

Whilton Marina is one of the most prominent and well-known marinas on the Grand Union Canal, located at Whilton Locks in Northamptonshire. Sitting on a busy and historic stretch of canal, the marina has become a major hub for boaters, offering moorings, boat sales, services, and easy access to one of the most important waterways in the UK.

Its central location, excellent facilities, and proximity to a major lock flight make Whilton Marina a key destination for leisure cruisers and liveaboard boaters alike.

From Whilton, boaters can cruise:

• North towards Watford Locks and on to Leicester
• South towards Braunston Junction and the main Grand Union Canal
• Onward connections to Oxford, Birmingham, London, and the Midlands

This makes Whilton Marina a popular stopping point and a practical base for both short and extended cruising routes.

Whilton Locks – A Key Canal Feature
The marina sits alongside Whilton Locks, a short but important lock flight that helps boats navigate changes in elevation along this section of the canal. The locks are well maintained and form part of a busy cruising corridor, particularly during the main boating season.

For many boaters, Whilton Locks mark:

• A gateway to the quieter Leicester Line
• A transition point between rural cruising and busier junctions
• A convenient place to stop, rest, or access services

Marina Facilities and Services
Whilton Marina is best known for its comprehensive boating facilities, making it far more than just a place to moor. Services typically include:

• Long-term and short-term moorings
• Boat sales, including a large brokerage
• Boat maintenance and repair services
• Chandlery and boating supplies
• Fuel, water, and waste disposal
• Secure marina environment

Its size and infrastructure make it one of the most significant marinas on the Grand Union Canal.

Boat Sales and Brokerage

Whilton Marina is particularly well regarded for its boat sales operation, often attracting buyers from across the UK. With a large selection of narrowboats and wide-beam boats available, it has become a recognised destination for those looking to buy, sell, or upgrade a boat.

The marina’s canal-side location allows potential buyers to view boats in their natural cruising environment, adding to its appeal.

Surrounding Area and Countryside
Despite its size, Whilton Marina is set within attractive Northamptonshire countryside. The surrounding area offers:

• Open farmland and rural views
• Quiet towpath walks
• Easy cycling routes along the canal
• A peaceful contrast to busier canal junctions

Nearby villages provide additional amenities, pubs, and local services, all within easy reach of the canal.

A Popular Stop for Canal Boaters

Whilton Marina is a regular stopping point for boaters thanks to:

• Its central position on the Grand Union Canal
• Easy access to services and supplies
• Proximity to major cruising routes
• A friendly and active boating community

Whether passing through, mooring long-term, or starting a canal journey, many boaters include Whilton as part of their route planning.

Why Whilton Marina Is Important
Located directly on the Grand Union Canal
Positioned at Whilton Locks on a key cruising stretch
Major centre for boat sales and services
Well-connected to the national canal network
Surrounded by attractive rural scenery
Its combination of location, scale, and facilities makes it one of the most influential marinas on the inland waterways.

Conclusion
Whilton Marina at Whilton Locks is a landmark destination on the Grand Union Canal, offering boaters excellent facilities, strong transport links across the canal network, and a scenic rural setting. Whether visiting for moorings, boat services, or simply passing through on a cruising holiday, it remains one of the most important and recognisable marinas in the Midlands.