We have five star customer reviews on Feefo.
Routes from Silsden
The Inner Pennine Ring
We offer a range of boat sizes with accommodation for two to 12 people.
With our Price Promise you’ll know you’re paying the best price.
The Route
28 nights 
183 miles 
115 hours 
214 locks 
Experienced
The Inner Pennine Ring
Also known as the Two Roses Ring, this epic journey connects the east and west coasts of Northern England, traversing the Pennines with spectacular views.
Leeds Travelling in the direction of Leeds along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal from Silsden, you’ll enjoy views beautiful views of the River Aire and the West Yorkshire countryside. You’ll cruise for 22 miles, through 29 locks before you reach Leeds Bridge. You’ll go through the Bingley Five Rise Locks, UNESCO World Heritage Saltaire, Apperley Bridge, Kirkstall and Leeds.
Aire & Calder Navigation (Main Line) At Leeds Bridge, transfer onto the Aire & Calder Navigation Main Line. You’ll cruise 10 miles through 5 locks to Castleford Junction.
Aire & Calder Navigation (Wakefield Section) When you reach Castleford Junction you’ll transfer onto the Aire & Calder Navigation Wakefield Section. You’ll cruise for 7 miles, through 4 locks to Fall Ing Junction. At Stanley Ferry you’ll pass the Canal & River Trust’s lock gates workshop.
Calder & Hebble Navigation At Fall Ing Junction you’ll transfer onto the Calder & Hebble Navigation. You’ll cruise for 21 miles, through 27 locks to Sowerby Bridge Junction. This section includes Wakefield and the waterside Hepworth Wakefield Gallery.
Rochdale Canal At Sowerby Bridge Junction you’ll transfer onto the Rochdale Canal. You’ll travel 32 miles and 91 locks to Castlefield Junction. In this section you’ll go through Tuel Lane Lock, the deepest on the canal system. You’ll also go through Todmorden and Littleborough and through the centre of Manchester.
Bridgewater Canal (Main Line) At Castlefield Junction, transfer onto the Bridgewater Canal Main Line. Travel on for 2 miles to Stretford – Waters Meeting.
Bridgewater Canal (Stretford & Leigh Branch) At Stretford transfer onto the Bridgewater Canal Stretford & Leigh Branch. Cruise on for 10 miles to Leigh Bridge.
Leeds & Liverpool Canal (Leigh Branch) At Leigh Bridge, you’ll transfer onto the Leeds & Liverpool Canal (Leigh Branch). Cruise on another 7 miles through 2 locks to Wigan Junction.
Leeds & Liverpool Canal (Main Line) At Wigan Junction, transfer onto the Leeds & Liverpool Canal (Main Line).
Silsden From Wigan Junction back to Silsden you’ll cruise 69 miles and you’ll go through 56 locks, including the Wigan Flight. You’ll pass through Blackburn, you’ll cross the Burnley Embankment, you’ll go through Barrowford Locks, Foulridge Tunnel, Gargrave (Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales) and you’ll pass Skipton Castle.
NB The maximum boat dimensions for this route are:
- Leeds & Liverpool Canal – Length 60ft Beam 14ft 3ins
- Calder & Hebble Navigation – Length 59ft (57ft 6in Wide Beam) Beam 14ft
FAQs
What are the best routes for canal boat holiday beginners?
Anglo Welsh offers a variety of beginner-friendly routes across the UK. From the historic beauty of the Kennet & Avon Canal to the scenic Llangollen Canal, there’s something for everyone. Routes without too many locks tend to be best for beginners. Our team can recommend a route tailored to your interests and the duration of your holiday.
Where can I moor overnight and what does it cost?
There are plenty of places to moor your canal boat for free along towpaths, making overnight stops flexible and stress-free. If you prefer additional facilities like water, electricity, or secure mooring, some marinas charge a small fee. Our team can provide route advice, including the best mooring spots along your journey.
How easy is it to operate locks?
Operating locks is a fun part of the canal boat holiday experience, and it’s easier than you might think. During your handover, we’ll explain how to safely work locks. You’ll quickly get the hang of it, and there’s always help at busy locks if you need it.
