Lancashire Canal Cruises

Published on: 18/01/23

At Let’s Go Out, we like to give you a range of ideas and opportunities, from town to country, picturesque views to rip-roaringly adventurous, historic fascination to jump-about family fun. This week, we’re taking the serene and scenic route with charming cruising along waterways in the heart of Lancashire.

Established in 1881, Lancashire Canal Cruises bring heritage and history to peaceful landscapes and wonderful wildlife-watching opportunities along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.

A Sailor’s Life for Us

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Departing daily from The Slipway Inn at Burscough, an anchor’s throw from Preston, Southport and Liverpool, and conveniently close to the M6 and M58, their variety of public, bespoke and private charter cruises will transport you through idyllic locations and into a totally relaxed frame of mind. From breakfast trips to gin-raising leisurely afternoons or warming hot-pot evening cruises, whichever you choose, their narrowboats all seat 12 passengers in comfort and safety, with refreshment and washroom facilities, even central heating for comfortably sailing, whatever the season!

Some of the picturesque landmarks you can encounter during your voyage through the peaceful and tranquil countryside include windmills, wharfs and mills, dating back to the 19th century. You’ll sail under stone and swing bridges (which you can help open if you want the full experience!). You’ll see an abundance of birds and waterfowl, maybe even a kingfisher or rare visitor from nearby Martin Mere nature reserve. Your friendly skipper will supply knowledgeable commentary, sharing the history of the canal, share-worthy snippets, and ensuring you don’t miss any sightings. Longer cruises stop at Parbold for a leg-stretch, coffee or ice cream!

Which Cruise? You Choose!

Public Cruises:

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1.5 Hour Public Cruise: Great for families, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal enjoying the comfortable surroundings of the central heated narrow boat. A leisurely cruise drifting through the Lancashire waterways, with views of the picturesque local towns and villages, including unlimited self-service tea and coffee throughout.

Afternoon Tea Cruise: Get started with a refreshing welcome soft or alcoholic drink, before enjoying all the trimmings of traditional afternoon tea. Tuck into a mouth-watering smorgasbord of finger sandwiches, scones topped with an indulgent serving of fruit jam and clotted cream, and a scrumptious assortment of cakes, washed down with unlimited tea and coffee.

Breakfast Cruise: Setting off at a civilised 10am, breakfast served on board includes a glass of Bucks Fizz, full English breakfast (sausage, bacon, egg, beans, tomato, black pudding, hash brown and toast), plus unlimited tea and coffee.

Hotpot Cruise: Feast on some hearty classic British food on this leisurely evening canal cruise. Tuck into a warming Lancashire Hotpot, served with delicious crusty bread and red cabbage one of Lancashire’s tastiest traditional dishes, topped off with a complimentary glass of wine.

Tapas & Sangria or Wine & Cheese Cruise: Enjoy an evening cruise with a view while sampling delicious food and drinks! Welcomed aboard with a refreshing welcome alcoholic or soft drink, enjoy an artisan spread of mouth-watering nibbles as the countryside unfolds all around.

Fish & Chips Cruise: Enjoy beautiful scenery whilst enjoying traditional fish & chips. After a welcome alcoholic or soft drink, tuck into crispy beer battered fish, triple cooked chips, mushy peas and homemade tartar sauces, washed down with unlimited tea and coffee.

Roast Dinner Cruise: The ultimate trip to share with loved ones! Tuck into a superbly presented roast dinner, with a choice succulent chicken breast, honey glazed ham or vegan nut roast. All served with herb roasted potatoes, honey glazed root vegetables, seasonal greens, giant Yorkshire puddings and a red wine gravy. With complimentary welcome drink and unlimited tea and coffee: yum!

Exclusive Hire

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The perfect way to connect and spoil yourselves with friends, family, reunions or colleagues.

2 Hour / Half Day / Full Day Charter with Skipper: Exclusive use of the boat for a fantastic time on the water! You’ll be welcomed onboard by your friendly and experienced skipper for a wonderful exploration of the Lancashire canals and waterways. Sit back and relax as the boat winds through the small villages and open countryside, with central heating to keep you cosy if it’s chilly outside. There’s plenty of onboard or stop-off add-on food and drink options, or you’re very welcome to bring your own!

Private Hire Afternoon Tea Cruise with Skipper: For groups up to 12, enjoy the Traditional Afternoon Tea cruise without having to share the scones, cakes, sandwiches and drinks!

Private Hire Gin and Afternoon Tea Cruise With Skipper: The ultimate gin and afternoon tea experience. Discover 5 of the finest gins from 5 of the best distilleries Lancashire has to offer, with a medley of garnishes, fruits & mixers. Add in a Traditional Afternoon Tea, with scones, cakes, sandwiches, alcoholic and soft drinks, tea and coffee. Divine!

Private Breakfast Cruise With Skipper: Enjoy the boat exclusively to yourselves, while you tuck into a full English breakfast (sausage, bacon, egg, beans, tomato, black pudding, hash brown and toast), plus unlimited tea and coffee.

The team also offers festive and seasonal cruises for Valentine’s, Easter, Mother’s and Father’s Day, plus ‘tailor-made’ charters for occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, school reunions, corporate hospitality and historical tours. As you can see, the ideas are endless, and they love a challenge!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have also put together a list of frequently asked questions at the link below, which include some Top Tips and Did you know information, which you can use to show off with your friends and family

  • Read our frequently asked questions (FAQs) - Click Here

We hope that you have enjoyed reading our article called Lancashire Canal Cruises and that you have found the information above include our FAQ page helpful in deciding on which venue you to choose for your Activities and Days Out

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