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What to Expect When Cruising the Canals If you’re planning a canal boat holiday or thinking about buying or hiring a narrowboat, one question that often comes up is: how much fuel does a narrowboat use? Understanding fuel consumption helps with trip planning, budgeting, and knowing when and where to refuel. Let’s break down the […]

Your Guide to the Types of Boats You’ll See on UK Canals If you’re planning a canal boat holiday or thinking about life on the water, you’ve probably come across the terms narrowboat, widebeam, and barge. While they’re often used interchangeably, these boats each have distinct features, functions, and personalities. Let’s break down the key […]

Where Industry, Engineering, and History Flow Together Tucked away in the northern part of Liverpool, not far from the city’s vibrant docks, lies a fascinating and often overlooked piece of canal heritage: the Stanley Lock Flight. Comprising four imposing locks on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, this stretch of water isn’t just a passageway—it’s a […]

A Journey Through Time Along Britain’s Longest Canal Today, the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is a haven for peaceful cruises, towpath walks, and waterside wildlife. But behind its quiet charm lies a remarkable history—one of ambition, engineering, and the industrial revolution. Spanning over 127 miles and linking the cities of Leeds in West Yorkshire to […]

When most people think of a canal boat holiday, they picture summer sunshine, towpath picnics, and long evenings outside. But here’s a secret we love to share: winter boat hire might just be the most magical experience of all. Yes, it’s colder. Yes, the days are shorter. But winter brings a whole new kind of […]

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of West Lancashire If you’re cruising the Leeds and Liverpool Canal or planning a countryside break, don’t miss the charming town of Burscough. Nestled between the bustling towns of Ormskirk and Southport, Burscough is packed with character, history, and hidden gems. Whether you’re moored nearby or visiting by car, […]

When you think of a cosy getaway, your mind might jump to a cabin in the woods or a seaside cottage. But there’s a lesser-known escape that’s equally peaceful, refreshingly different, and surprisingly snug: a boat stay. Whether it’s for a long weekend or a slow cruise along a canal, a stay aboard a boat […]

There’s something magical about the canals—something that keeps drawing people back to them year after year. Whether it’s the gentle rhythm of the water, the wildlife along the towpath, or the simple joy of slowing down, the canals have a unique charm that’s hard to match. We love the canals. And after just one trip, […]

Are Canal Trips Safe for Dogs? Here’s What You Need to Know Canal boat holidays are a fantastic way to slow down, explore nature, and spend quality time with your furry best friend. But if you’re wondering, “Are canal trips safe for dogs?”, the answer is: yes—with the right preparation and safety measures. Whether you’re […]

If you’re a dog owner who dreads leaving your four-legged friend behind, a canal boat holiday could be the ideal getaway for both of you. With peaceful towpaths, countryside walks, and plenty of sniff-worthy stops, it’s a great way to explore the outdoors together. So, what’s it really like taking your dog on a canal […]

If you’re dreaming of a slow-paced, scenic getaway, a canal boat hire might just be the perfect escape. But how comfortable is it really to live on the water for a few days—or even a week? Let’s break down what you can expect in terms of comfort, space, and onboard amenities when you hire a […]

Canal Ghost Stories That Will Send a Chill Down the Towpath The UK’s canal network is more than just tranquil waters and scenic villages — it’s also a living museum of the past. Built during the Industrial Revolution, many canals have seen centuries of human toil, tragedy, and untold tales. So it’s no surprise that […]

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. […]

Canal Boat Holiday Lingo Made Simple New to narrowboating? Welcome aboard! If you’re planning your first canal boat holiday, you may hear a few terms that leave you scratching your head. Don’t worry — canal folk are friendly, and you’ll be talking like a boater in no time. To help you get started, here’s a […]

A Week-Long Canal Boat Holiday on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal A 7-day canal boat holiday from Burscough gives you the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With a full week to explore, you’ll have time to cruise through scenic countryside, moor in welcoming villages, tackle a few locks, and maybe even reach the historic […]

Discover the charm of Lancashire’s waterside communities One of the greatest joys of a canal boat holiday is mooring up in peaceful villages that you might otherwise never find. Lancashire is packed with beautiful canal-side stops that offer history, good food, and warm welcomes — all just steps from your mooring. Here are some of […]

Reconnect, explore, and create unforgettable memories on the water. Family holidays are meant to bring everyone closer—and what better way to do that than aboard a boat? Whether you’re gliding through peaceful canals, exploring coastal waters, or anchoring near a hidden beach, a family boat trip offers a truly unique experience. Here’s why you should […]

There’s something timeless and tranquil about gliding along a canal in a narrowboat. Whether you’re planning a weekend break or a longer adventure, traveling by canal boat offers a unique perspective on the countryside and a chance to unwind. But before you untie those mooring ropes, it’s important to be prepared. Here are 10 essential […]

Understanding Mooring Rules on UK Canals One of the great joys of canal boating is being able to stop and soak in the scenery whenever you like. But can you just moor your boat anywhere along the canal? The short answer is: not quite. Mooring a canal boat comes with rules designed to keep waterways safe, […]

Exploring Lancashire and Merseyside by canal offers a perfect mix of history, culture, nature, and local charm. Whether you’re cruising the iconic Leeds & Liverpool Canal or the picturesque waterways around Liverpool, there’s plenty to see and do. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your canal adventure in this vibrant part […]