The Lancaster Canal

The LANCASTER CANAL, 200 years old, still exudes its old world charm as it winds its way through the Fylde countryside with constant views of the foot-hills of the Pennines. The old market town of Garstang is typical of the history encountered along this canal, from where there is a regular bus service to Blackpool for a change of scenery. Although much larger, Lancaster itself is steeped in history from being originally the site of a Roman Fortress to the present day castle constructed in the 13th century and where the Pendle witches were put on trial.

There are numerous aqueducts but by far the most impressive is the Lune Aqueduct built by John Rennie, standing high above the River Lune and some 660ft in length. Then, just when you thought you were entering yet another tree-lined section, you are suddenly overwhelmed by views of Morecambe Bay, stretching across to Grange-over-Sands. In fact, at Hest Bank, the sea-shore is only a few hundred yards away.

The main line of the canal is 42 miles long and is lock-free with just 2 swing bridges, terminating at Tewitfield, from where a local bus ride takes you to Kendal. However the Glasson Branch should not be missed. On this stretch you will encounter six locks as you travel through open countryside before entering the basin with its large marina with numerous types of sea going craft moored. Glasson Dock, in the next basin, is now a quiet backwater with the occasional coaster entering from the River Lune; a delightful place to wander around and dream of sailing round the world in your own ocean-going yacht.