If you’re looking for a peaceful day out in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, a canal cruise from Burscough to Parbold offers the perfect blend of heritage, nature, and village charm. Whether you’re onboard our skippered narrowboat or taking the tiller yourself, this 5-mile stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is one of the most relaxing and scenic day routes in the North West.
🧠Your Journey Begins: Burscough Wharf
Start your day at Burscough Wharf, a beautifully restored canal-side development filled with artisan cafés, independent shops, and historic brick buildings once used by canal workers. Grab a takeaway coffee, snap some photos, and step aboard your boat.
As you set off westward, the canal quickly opens into rolling farmland and wooded banks. Keep your camera ready — you’re likely to see herons, moorhens, and perhaps even a kingfisher darting across the water.
🚪 Rufford Branch & the Historic Junction
Not far from Burscough you’ll pass Rufford Branch Junction, a historic intersection leading to the Rufford Canal and eventually to the River Douglas and Ribble Link. The stone bridges and canal architecture here are full of character — perfect for a slow glide and a few great photos.
🌿 Between Bridges: Peace, Pillboxes & Pastoral Views
Cruising along this quiet stretch, the canal winds through open countryside, with views of distant hills, grazing sheep, and the occasional narrowboat moored under the trees.
Look out for several WWII-era pillboxes built along the canal as part of Britain’s wartime defenses. These small, windowed bunkers now sit quietly on the banks, weathered by time and overgrown with ivy — fascinating little reminders of history.
🍻 Midday Stop: Ring O’ Bells Bridge
Roughly halfway to Parbold, you’ll reach Bridge 34, near the village pub The Ring O’ Bells. It’s a perfect place to moor for lunch — with outdoor seating, hearty pub meals, and a warm welcome to boaters. If you’d rather picnic onboard, the canal banks here are wide and calm, ideal for a peaceful lunch with a view.
🖼️ Approaching Parbold: Windmills and Watercolours
As you continue west, Parbold Hill and its surrounding woodlands begin to rise in the distance. Look for the landmark Parbold Windmill — now a privately run art gallery, the mill’s white sails are a striking sight from the water.
You’ll pass old stone bridges and boathouses before gently arriving in Parbold, a village known for its creative community, waterside pubs, and postcard-worthy scenery.
🛍️ Explore Parbold on Foot
Moor up and stretch your legs — Parbold is well worth a wander. A few highlights:
- The Windmill Gallery – Original art in a historic setting
- The Wayfarer Pub & Kitchen – A great spot for drinks or dinner
- Parbold Bottle – A quirky hilltop monument with sweeping views (a short hike from the canal)
- Shops & Cafés – Browse village stores or grab an ice cream before heading back
🕰️ Round Trip Timing
- Cruising time (one way): Approx. 2 to 2.5 hours
- Return trip with lunch and stops: A relaxed 5–6 hour day
- Suitable for: Families, couples, or small groups — especially with a skippered boat so you can just relax
đź’ˇ Tips for the Perfect Cruise
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching
- Wear layers – the weather changes quickly along the canal
- Don’t rush – this is a journey best enjoyed slowly
- Book a table if planning lunch at the pub, especially on weekends
- Charge your phone – there are too many beautiful moments not to capture!
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Burscough to Parbold canal cruise is more than just a boat ride — it’s a slow journey through history, nature, and local life. It’s a chance to disconnect from the pace of the world and reconnect with simple pleasures: good company, gentle water, and countryside views.
Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a family outing, or just craving a peaceful day outdoors, this stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
Ready to set sail? Your day on the water awaits.
