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If you’re an older couple looking for a relaxing, scenic, and leisurely holiday, a canal boat trip might be just what you need. Canal boating offers a gentle pace, beautiful surroundings, and plenty of opportunities to unwind—making it an ideal choice for those wanting a stress-free escape. Here’s why canal boat holidays are perfect for […]

If you’re an older couple looking for a relaxing, scenic, and leisurely holiday, a canal boat trip might be just what you need. Canal boating offers a gentle pace, beautiful surroundings, and plenty of opportunities to unwind—making it an ideal choice for those wanting a stress-free escape. Here’s why canal boat holidays are perfect for […]

UK canals have inspired countless tales of adventure, mystery, history, and everyday life. From classic novels to modern memoirs, books set on or around canals offer a unique glimpse into the culture and charm of Britain’s inland waterways. If you love canals or are curious about life on the water, here are some wonderful books […]

The canals of the UK are steeped in history, mystery, and charm — making them the perfect backdrop for captivating films. From nostalgic dramas to thrilling mysteries, several movies have captured the unique atmosphere of life on or near the canals. If you’re fascinated by Britain’s waterways, here are some notable films set on UK […]

If you’ve ever taken a walk, paddle, or narrowboat cruise along a canal, you’ve likely noticed an array of signs peppered along the route. While some are self-explanatory, others may leave you guessing. These signs play a crucial role in ensuring safe navigation, environmental protection, and the smooth sharing of the space between boaters, walkers, […]

Canals are not just serene stretches of water winding through the countryside—they’re also home to some of the most fascinating infrastructure in the UK. Among these, canal bridges stand out for their blend of history, engineering, and charm. Whether you’re a boater navigating under them, a walker crossing them, or a history lover admiring them, understanding canal […]

Taking a narrowboat trip along the canals is a magical experience — peaceful waters, scenic views, and a slow pace that’s perfect for family bonding. But if you have a baby, you might wonder how to make the adventure safe, comfortable, and fun for everyone. Whether you’re new to boating or an experienced narrowboat lover […]

Planning a canal boat holiday is exciting—but packing for life on the water is a bit different from your typical getaway. Space is limited, the pace is relaxed, and you’ll be spending most of your time outdoors or cruising peacefully through the countryside. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned narrowboater, here’s a […]

A helpful guide to good manners on the cut Whether you’re hiring a narrowboat for the first time or you’re a seasoned cruiser, understanding canal etiquette is just as important as knowing how to steer. These unwritten (and sometimes written) rules help keep the canals safe, friendly, and enjoyable for everyone — boaters, walkers, anglers, […]

What It’s Really Like to Spend a Day on the Water Ever wondered what a typical day looks like on a canal boat holiday? Whether you’re picturing peaceful cruising, pub lunches, or duck-filled mornings, you’re not far off. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at a relaxed day in the life of a canal boat holiday hirer […]

Why a Boat Holiday Might Be Your Next Favourite Escape If you’ve ever dreamed of a relaxing break on the water, you might be wondering:“Are canal boat holidays suitable for first-timers?” The short answer? Absolutely.A boat holiday on the UK’s canals is one of the most beginner-friendly travel experiences you can enjoy — no previous […]

Planning your first canal holiday hire? You’re in for a truly unique break — a relaxing journey through the countryside at your own pace, with waterside pubs, wildlife, and picturesque villages along the way. But packing for life aboard a narrowboat is a little different from your usual hotel stay. Whether you’re cruising for a […]

Your Floating Retreat in the Heart of Lancashire Looking for a unique place to stay that combines comfort, charm, and waterside tranquillity? Our Static Boat Hire at Burscough Wharf offers a truly memorable getaway — all the atmosphere of canal life, with none of the steering required! Moored securely in the picturesque setting of Burscough […]

Looking for a peaceful break full of waterside pubs, countryside charm, and easy cruising? A 3-day canal boat holiday from Burscough heading westbound offers just that — no locks, no rush, just the freedom of the water and the beauty of Lancashire’s rural canal landscape. Perfect for beginners, couples, or families, this short itinerary along […]

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 […]

If you’re dreaming of a unique getaway filled with scenic cruising, heritage canal routes, and a mix of countryside and urban charm, a canal boat holiday from Burscough to Manchester might be just the trip you’re looking for. This route along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal (and connecting waterways) is a brilliant mix of peaceful […]

If you’re looking for a slow-paced, scenic adventure that winds its way through countryside, villages, and into one of the UK’s most vibrant cities — a canal cruise from Burscough to Liverpool is the perfect journey. Whether you’re a first-time boater or a seasoned narrowboat fan, this route offers a fantastic mix of nature, heritage, […]

If you have ever sailed with us it is highly likely you will have noticed the very imposing ‘Ainscough Mill’ as we travel east after passing through ‘The Wharf’. It’s been the home of luxury apartments for the last ten years but it has an interesting history with strong links to the Leeds and Liverpool […]

Following the British Expeditionary Force’s chaotic evacuation from the Dunkirk beaches in 1940 there was a very real threat of invasion by the rampant German military. Their plan for invasion was code named ‘Operation Sea Lion’ and they planned to sail by August 15th. The aptly named General Sir Edmund Ironside was tasked by Sir […]

This spell of very cold weather has led to stretches of the canal network icing up and has us remembering the devastating winter of 1962/3 which effectively killed the canal network as a commercial proposition. From December 1962 through to March 1963 the canal network was completely frozen and unpassable despite the efforts of icebreaker […]