If you’re short on time but craving a relaxing getaway, a 3-day canal boat holiday from Burscough is the ideal escape. Nestled on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Lancashire, Burscough offers easy access to scenic cruising, charming villages, and peaceful moorings — all at a gentle, slow-travel pace.
Whether you’re new to boating or a seasoned canal lover, this short cruise promises tranquillity, towpath pub stops, and quality time on the water.
🗓️ Your 3-Day Canal Boat Holiday Itinerary
📍 Day 1: Burscough → Parbold (Approx. 3–4 miles | 1.5–2 hrs cruising)
Start your canal boat holiday at Burscough Wharf, a lively spot with cafés, a brewery taproom, and mooring facilities. After a short induction and loading up supplies, begin cruising east toward Parbold.
Enjoy:
- Flat, lock-free cruising (great for beginners)
- Lush countryside views
- Wildlife spotting along the towpath
🛶 Overnight mooring in Parbold
Moor up near The Windmill pub or The Wayfarer for a great meal and a peaceful evening.
📍 Day 2: Parbold → Appley Bridge → Gathurst (Approx. 4–5 miles | 2–3 hrs cruising)
Continue east on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, meandering past farmland, woodland, and classic stone bridges. You’ll pass through Appley Bridge, a pretty stretch of canal lined with cottages and narrowboats.
Option to:
- Stop for lunch at The Boathouse Brasserie
- Walk to Fairy Glen for a short woodland hike
- Cruise onward to Gathurst, where mooring is quiet and peaceful
🛶 Overnight mooring in Gathurst or Appley Bridge
Enjoy a waterside barbecue or visit a nearby country pub.
📍 Day 3: Return to Burscough (Approx. 7–8 miles | 3–4 hrs cruising)
After a relaxed breakfast aboard, begin your return cruise west toward Burscough. With no locks on this stretch, you’ll enjoy calm cruising and plenty of photo opportunities.
Use the return journey to:
- Spot herons, swans, and canal-side cows
- Take the tiller if you haven’t yet (perfect for newbies!)
- Soak in the peace and quiet before heading back to reality
🛶 Arrive back at Burscough Wharf by late afternoon, moor up, and maybe enjoy a final meal at The Hop Vine or Infusions Café Bistro before heading home.
🌿 Why Choose a 3-Day Canal Boat Holiday?
✅ Short & sweet – Ideal for long weekends or first-time boaters
✅ Scenic & peaceful – Rural landscapes, local pubs, and friendly wildlife
✅ Pet-friendly – Bring the dog for towpath walks and boat naps
✅ Unplug & unwind – No traffic, no stress, just slow-paced adventure
📝 Tips for a Smooth Short Break
- Pack light, but don’t forget warm layers and waterproofs
- Bring binoculars and a good book
- Pre-book pub tables if travelling in peak season
- Charge your phone — but prepare to put it down
📆 Best Time to Cruise
The best time for a 3-day canal boat holiday in Lancashire is between April and October, when towpaths are lush, wildlife is active, and evenings are long enough for sunset moorings.
🚤 Ready to Cast Off?
A 3-day canal boat holiday from Burscough is the perfect way to escape the everyday and explore the slower side of life. With easy cruising, stunning scenery, and the freedom to stop wherever you fancy, it’s no wonder narrowboat breaks are one of the UK’s favourite staycations.
Book your boat, bring your crew, and let the water set the pace.
