Delicious Stops Along the Cut You’ll Want to Moor For
There’s something special about a slow cruise and a good snack. When you’re travelling the Leeds & Liverpool Canal between Liverpool and Wigan, you’re not just passing through beautiful countryside and historic lock flights — you’re also cruising past some of Lancashire’s tastiest towpath treats.
Whether you’re after cake, coffee, or a proper pub lunch, here are our top foodie stops to moor up and enjoy on your canal boat holiday.
☕ 1. Red House Café – Lydiate
📍 Near Bridge 16
Tucked just off the towpath, Red House Café is a charming stop with generous breakfasts, homemade cakes, and friendly service. There’s outdoor seating for sunny days, and you can moor close by for a peaceful stopover.
Try: The full English or a classic bacon butty to fuel your morning cruise.
🥧 2. Scotch Piper Inn – Lydiate
📍 Just a short walk from the canal
Claimed to be England’s oldest pub, this 14th-century gem oozes character. It’s not right on the canal, but just a 5-minute walk from a nearby mooring spot — and well worth it.
Try: A local ale and a hot pie by the fire (or in the beer garden if the sun’s out).
🧁 3. Junction Café – Maghull
📍 Bridge 12 area
A great little café that’s popular with walkers, cyclists, and boaters alike. Known for friendly service and quality coffee.
Try: The carrot cake or a warming jacket potato if you’re mooring up for lunch.
🍰 4. Canal Turn Café – Aintree
📍 Near Aintree Racecourse
Perfect for a pit stop, this canal-side café serves coffee, tea, light bites, and snacks with a view. Plenty of outdoor seating and mooring space nearby.
Try: Their lemon drizzle cake or a toasted sandwich after a busy lock session.
🥪 5. Appley Café – Appley Bridge
📍 Just before Wigan
This welcoming café near Appley Bridge Marina is a hidden gem. Ideal for boaters heading toward Wigan or turning back west. Cosy, quiet, and often praised for its fresh food.
Try: A breakfast bap or cream tea with scones — you’ve earned it!
🍻 6. The Windmill – Parbold
📍 Towpath access, mooring right outside
While technically just before Wigan if you’re westbound, this pub is one of the most convenient and popular stops on the route. Lovely pub meals, moorings on the doorstep, and beautiful views of Parbold Hill.
Try: Fish and chips, followed by sticky toffee pudding. Canal classics.
🚶 Honourable Mentions
- The Ship Inn (Haskayne) – Great outdoor space and hearty meals
- Saracen’s Head (Halsall) – Beautiful rural setting with quality pub fare
- Liverpool waterfront – If you’re mooring at Salthouse Dock, options abound from street food to fine dining!
🛶 Final Thoughts
Part of the magic of a canal boat holiday is finding these little gems that you can’t access by road. So, whether you’re planning a week-long cruise or a short getaway, don’t miss out on the many towpath treats between Liverpool and Wigan.
Got a favourite towpath stop we missed? Let us know — we love trying new places!
