Charles Edward Holloway was born in Christchurch, Hampshire. He studied art in London, at Leigh's School, alongside Charles Green, James Drogmole Linton and Frederick Walker. He began his career by producing stained glass with William Morris, but in 1866 he turned to painting and printmaking. Specialising in landscapes and marine subjects, especially of East Anglia and the Thames Valley, he worked in a fresh, impressionistic manner, and was influenced by James McNeill Whistler in his colouring.
Later in his career, he expanded his subject matter, as a result of visits to Venice in 1875 and 1895. He exhibited at leading venues in London and the provinces, including the Royal Academy, and was elected to the membership of the Royal Society of Painter-Etchers and Engravers (1882), the Royal Institute of Painters in Water-Colours (ARI 1875, RI 1879) and the New English Art Club (1893). A solo show of his work was held at the Goupil Gallery in the year of his death.
His work is represented in numerous public collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum.