Overview
- Length: ~41 miles
- Lock-free main line: From Preston to Tewitfield (a real pleasure to cruise)
- Authority: Canal & River Trust (CRT)
- Character: Wide, rural, peaceful, with long straight pounds and open views
Locks (or lack of them!)
Main line: No locks at all 🎉
Navigation Tips
Speed & Handling
- Keep your speed low and steady – the canal is prone to bank erosion.
- It’s wide, but shallow at the edges, so stay central.
- Long straight sections can tempt speed—resist it.
Depth & Weed
- Depth is generally good, but:
- Can be weedy in summer, especially near the edges.
- If you lose propulsion, a quick reverse usually clears the prop.
Swing Bridges
- Several manual swing bridges
- Most are straightforward but can be heavy—use a windlass if provided.
- Always secure your boat before operating.
Mooring
- Generally easy and pleasant.
- Popular mooring spots:
- Garstang (services, shops, pubs)
- Carnforth
- Bolton-le-Sands
- Tewitfield (northern limit of navigation)
- Use rings where provided; elsewhere, pins are usually fine.
Wind & Weather
- The canal is very exposed in places.
- Crosswinds can be strong—especially on embankments.
- In winter, water levels can rise quickly after heavy rain.
Notable Features
- Lune Aqueduct: One of the largest in England – slow down and enjoy it.
- Rural wildlife: Swans, herons, deer, and plenty of sheep judging you quietly.
General Safety & Courtesy
- Few hire boats, many liveaboards—community atmosphere is strong.
- Pass moored boats slowly.
- Limited winding holes in places—plan turns ahead.