Water Babies

The Lancaster Canal

Built over 200 years ago, the Lancaster Canal is the only canal built purely for pleasure. Along its 42 mile length you will encounter stunning views over the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay.

Beginning in the centre of bustling Preston and stretching to the borders of the Lake District, the canal winds its way through unspoilt countryside and historic towns, the largest and most famous being Lancaster, an early Roman settlement on the banks of the River Lune. Lancaster is the perfect place to visit if you are a lover of History and the Arts. Visit the Castle, famous for the Lancashire witch trials and the Priory church Founded in the 15rh century. Don't miss the museums and Williamson Park with its Tropical Butterfly House and the impressive Ashton Memorial. Cruise over the Lune Aqueduct which carries the canal 60ft over the over the River Lune, a fine example of John Rennie's work back in 1797.

The main line of the canal is lock free. Many refer to it as 'the social canal' and it is famed among boating enthusiasts for its friendliness. For the more energetic, there is a branch off the main line which passes through six locks to the tiny coastal port of Glasson Dock (well worth the effort). This is one of the few stretches of Britain's canals with crystal clear water.

As you amble further North the shape and character of the land changes from being gentle and rolling to more spectacular, as Morecambe Bay and the mountains of the Lake District come into view. The end of the navigation is Tewitfield (slightly North of Carnforth) and then you get to experience it all over again on your return journey to our base in Forton.