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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 […]

Set in the heart of West Lancashire, the quiet town of Burscough is today best known for its canalside charm, towpath cafés, and peaceful boating holidays. But beneath its calm surface lies a fascinating industrial past — one built on the waterway that quite literally put Burscough on the map: the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. […]

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the British countryside from the water — without the stress of steering, reading maps, or opening locks — then a skippered canal cruise is your perfect escape. Sit back, relax, and let your captain guide you through one of the most peaceful and picturesque journeys you’ll ever experience. 🧭 What is […]

Explore These Relaxing Canal Holiday Routes on a Weekend Escape Looking for the perfect weekend getaway that combines peace, scenery, and a little adventure? Burscough Wharf, nestled on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in West Lancashire, is the ideal starting point for a canal holiday route you can enjoy in just a few days. Whether […]

How to Make the Most of Your Family Canal Holiday If you’re looking for a holiday that’s relaxing for parents, exciting for kids, and a little different from the usual beach break or theme park visit, a family canal holiday could be just the thing. Imagine cruising through the countryside, feeding ducks from the side […]

Your Guide to a Truly Unique Boat Holiday Experience Thinking about booking a boat holiday but not quite sure what to expect from life aboard a narrowboat? Spending a week on a canal boat is unlike any other getaway — it’s a slower, simpler, and surprisingly satisfying way to travel. Whether you’re planning your first […]

Making Sense of the Locks That Lift and Lower Your Narrowboat If you’re new to canal boating, the idea of steering a boat into a big chamber, closing gates behind you, and moving up or down in the water can sound a bit daunting. But don’t worry — canal locks are clever, simple pieces of […]

Everything You Need to Know to Cruise with Confidence Driving a canal boat (also called “steering” or “helming”) might seem daunting at first — especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry — it’s much easier than it looks. With a little patience, some basic technique, and a steady hand, you’ll be confidently cruising […]

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started on the Water If you’ve never hired a canal boat before, one of the most common questions is:“What happens when we arrive — do we just get handed the keys and set off?” Absolutely not! A proper canal boat handover is a key part of the holiday — it […]

Why Life at 4mph Might Just Be Your Perfect Getaway Looking for a break that’s peaceful, picturesque, and a little out of the ordinary? A canal boat holiday could be just what you need. Whether you’re after slow travel, a family-friendly escape, or something a little different, cruising the UK’s waterways offers charm you just […]

Tips, Truths & Reassurances for Your First Canal Boat Holiday So, you’re about to take your first canal boat holiday — exciting! Life on the waterways is slow-paced, scenic, and utterly unique. But if you’ve never taken the tiller before, it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit nervous. Don’t worry — you don’t need to […]

Must-Watch Shows for Narrowboat Lovers and Armchair Cruisers There’s something irresistibly charming about Britain’s canals — the slow pace, the scenic beauty, the rich history — and it’s no wonder that this has translated so beautifully onto the small screen. Whether you’re planning your next canal boat holiday or simply dreaming of one from your […]

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 […]

A Guide for Anglers and Curious Cruisers If you’ve ever cruised the UK’s canals and seen someone quietly casting a line on the towpath, you may have wondered: Can I go fishing on the canals too? The answer is yes — fishing on the UK canal network is not only allowed, it’s a much-loved pastime. […]

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 […]

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 […]