Cruising from the peaceful village of Burscough to the vibrant heart of Manchester offers a fantastic mix of countryside tranquillity, industrial heritage, and urban culture. Travelling along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and eventually joining the Bridgewater Canal, this route provides a truly memorable waterway adventure.
Here’s a guide to the highlights and must-see stops along the way.
🚤 Starting Point: Burscough
Burscough Wharf is a lovely starting location, with moorings, cafés, and shops right on the canal. It’s a great place to stock up on supplies and enjoy a relaxed bite before setting off.
Don’t Miss:
- Burscough Farmers’ Market (check dates)
- Local pubs like The Hop Vine or The Wharf
- Nearby Martin Mere Wetland Centre, great for a short excursion
🌿 Lathom and Parbold
Cruise through beautiful West Lancashire countryside, passing through quiet farmland and traditional canal scenery.
Don’t Miss:
- Parbold Hill (walk to the top for amazing views)
- The Windmill Pub at Parbold — perfect for lunch
- Rolling fields and reed-lined banks teeming with birdlife
🏞️ Wigan Flight
One of the most iconic canal features in the North West, the Wigan Flight consists of 21 locks over about two miles. It’s a scenic and rewarding challenge for any boater.
Don’t Miss:
- Wigan Pier – once a symbol of industrial Britain, now home to regeneration projects
- Haigh Woodland Park – ideal for a break and a leg-stretch
- Classic lock-side cottages and engineering marvels
🏙️ Leigh and the Bridgewater Canal
After Wigan, you’ll pass Scotman’s Flash and join the Leigh Branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, then merge with the historic Bridgewater Canal at Leigh.
Don’t Miss:
- Pennington Flash Country Park – nature reserve and birdwatching haven
- Leigh town centre for shopping or a pub lunch
- Spot where the canals change – a significant junction in UK canal history
🧱 Barton Swing Aqueduct
As you approach Salford, you’ll cross one of the UK’s most impressive canal structures: the Barton Swing Aqueduct, which carries boats over the Manchester Ship Canal.
Don’t Miss:
- Look down to see ships passing underneath!
- Take a break nearby to admire the engineering
🌆 Destination: Manchester
Cruise into Castlefield Basin, a beautiful mooring area surrounded by converted warehouses, lively bars, and some of the city’s best attractions.
Don’t Miss:
- The Science and Industry Museum
- Canal Street and the Gay Village
- Spinningfields for shopping and dining
- Nightlife, music, and live events if you’re staying overnight
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
Allow around 4–5 days for a relaxed one-way cruise, or a full week for a return journey with plenty of sightseeing stops.
⚓ Tips for the Trip
- Check opening times for Wigan locks before setting off
- Bring waterproofs and layers—North West weather can change quickly
- Stock up on groceries in Wigan or Leigh if you prefer to moor in quieter spots overnight
- Keep a windlass handy at all times—you’ll need it often!
Final Thoughts
A canal cruise from Burscough to Manchester is a rewarding journey through England’s waterways, offering a unique perspective on rural charm, industrial heritage, and vibrant urban life. Whether you’re in it for the scenic countryside, lock-paddling adventure, or the buzz of Manchester, this route has something for every canal enthusiast.
