London Waterbus Company sails the Regent's Canal from Little Venice to Camden

Some of London's prettiest scenery is best seen at walking pace from the water. The London Waterbus Company runs boat trips along the Regent's Canal between Little Venice and Camden Market, offering a gentle journey through some of the most attractive corners of north London.

The trip takes about 45 minutes, depending on canal traffic and waits at the tunnel, and runs in either direction. Passengers can choose a Classic trip aboard a historic narrowboat, with live commentary in English, or a Comfort trip on a wide barge cruiser with music, a bar and refreshments.

The company operates converted narrowboats and barges, two of which are on the National Register of Historic Ships, and it is licensed by the Canal and River Trust.

The route is full of interest. It begins at Little Venice in Maida Vale, at the junction with the Grand Union Canal. The area was originally called Browning's Pool, and the poet Robert Browning, who lived there from 1862 to 1887, is believed to have coined the name Little Venice.

From there, boats pass through the 272 yard Maida Hill Tunnel, under the old Roman road of Watling Street, before gliding through St John's Wood and curving around the northern edge of Regent's Park. The journey ends at Camden Lock, whose locks were built between 1818 and 1820 and are the only twin locks left on the canal.

London Zoo sits alongside the route, though the waterbus does not stop there. Camden Market is about a 15 minute walk from the zoo.

For something a little different, the company also runs a 90 minute Cheese Tasting Cruise with The Cheese Bar, featuring five British cheeses with accompaniments, guided by the Cheese Bar team. Private hire and gift cards are available too.

On a crisp autumn afternoon, with the leaves turning along the towpath, it is hard to think of a more relaxing way to travel between two of London's favourite neighbourhoods. Trips continue into the winter, with sailings listed in November.

The London Waterbus Company sails between Little Venice and Camden Market. Tickets can be booked online at londonwaterbus.com.