Are canal locks difficult to use?
Canal locks are probably the most difficult thing to get the hang of, and they require the most physical effort too! Instructions will all make more sense when you get to your first lock! Remember that hire firms will always take you through your first lock if required. Most people find lock working enjoyable, involving all the group, once they have done their first few! It might seem confusing here, but in fact most of lock working is just common sense that you can pick up by taking it slowly and watching and talking to other boaters. Most boaters will be holiday makers just like you, and happy to chat about ways to do things, the weather and canal conditions. Being able to work locks safely and smoothly is essential if you are hiring a boat and handy if you are going on a hotel boat and want to help. Mostly you do have to work locks yourself, though some rivers have locks that are worked for you by lock keepers and some canal locks have keepers who may assist you.
