TRAVEL THE LANCASHIRE CANALS

Lancashire is lucky enough to have both the Lancaster and Leeds Liverpool Canal running through it’s towns and countryside, making it not only the perfect place for exploring on a sunny summers day but a great way to travel around the county.

The beauty of Lancashire’s canals is the every changing view as you leisurely cruise, walk or cycle along them. Popular activities in the summer months include boating, fishing, and even coastal walks, before making a stop off at a nearby pub.

Lancaster Canal

With views of the Silverdale Coast, the Forest of Bowland AONB and the rolling countryside of Wyre, it’s no surprise that the Lancaster Canal is a haven for wildlife. The gentle waterways and the flat footpath, (which stretches for over 27 miles!) make an ideal place for a peaceful escape this summer. The unique thing about the Lancaster canal is that it is the longest lock-free stretch of a canal in the country, with an amazing 41 miles without locks!

Popular stop offs along the Lancaster Canal

Barton Grange Garden Centre, home to The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre – Garstang

A great place to stop off when you are visiting the Lancaster Canal is Barton Grange Garden Centre, home to Lancashire Tourism Awards Visitor Attraction of the Year, The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre.

With an all-weather plant area, an award-winning farm shop and a range of exciting activities under one, grasscovered, roof, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Afterwards be sure to fuel up in one of the four different onsite eating and drinking options.

Lancaster Castle

A popular stop-off for many visitors in Lancaster is the historical Lancaster Castle, it really is a must-visit if you are in Lancaster this summer. With 1,000 years of history, this Grade I listed building is located on a hilltop location in the city centre and provides the perfect opportunity for you to discover more about the dark past.

Market towns– Garstang

Shop local in the market towns. The area of Garstang is brimming with historic architecture, including a 15th century barn, canal basin and aqueduct. There’s also a range of local businesses including riverside cafés, pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy some delicious food. But that’s not all, the Lancaster canal also passes through several other market towns including Carnforth, Scorton and Preston.

Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Originally invented to carry woollen goods and limestone from Leeds to Skipton, the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is an amazing 125 miles long! Due to the length and the complexity of this route, the canal took 46 years to be built. Because of this, you may notice that the engineering on the canal is very different to others. However, what was once created as an industrial highway is now a must-see for many visitors when they visit Lancashire in summer.

If you are visiting Burnley soon, keep an eye out for the river Brun which is the shortest river in Britain!

Popular stop off along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal

Rufford and Burscough

Rufford Old Hall is a great place to explore after a canal side walk. The Tudor house is located right next to the canal and has a range of footpaths which will take you around the surrounding gardens. It is also located close to WWT Martin Mere Wetland Centre, home to a variety of wildlife, adorable animals and several family-friendly activities.

Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve –

Covering 100 acres of land, Mere Sands

Wood Nature Reserve is a great place for wildlife spotting with deer, squirrels and foxes often visiting the woodland areas of the reserve. The Leeds and Liverpool Canal pass the reserve making it a convenient stop off, with pretty locks, old bridges and beautiful surrounding countryside views.

Market Towns -

The Leeds and Liverpool Canal passes through many of Lancashire’s market towns including Chorley, Blackburn and Burnley, making it easier than ever for you to show your support some of Lancashire’s local businesses.

Experience something different this summer

If you have already visited the Lancashire canals before, why not take the opportunity to experience something different this summer with one of these unique places to explore.

Burnley Canal Festival

Head to Burnley this August for a free family friendly event at the beautiful Leeds and Liverpool Canal where you can expect live music performances, workshops, an artisan craft market, delicious food stalls and maybe even a strange creature or two!

Canal Cruises

Embark on a canal cruise with one of the Lancashire canal boat cruises. Enjoy a relaxing escape as you sit back and enjoy the peaceful setting of the canals. Keep an eye out for the birds and animals on your cruise as you take in the wonderful rural settings.

Flotel Suite

If a day cruise isn’t enough, why not stay overnight in the new Flotel Suite, situated at Riley Green on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal. The floating hotel suite is the perfect mixture of luxury and comfort and a fantastic alternative to a traditional hotel or cottage.