Stanley Ferry to Hebden Bridge (Out & Back)

Recommended Duration: 4-6 days
One-way distance: ~21 miles
Locks (one-way): ~34
Round-trip total: ~42 miles, ~68 locks
Cruising time: ~22–24 hours

Route Overview

Route Itinerary (Outbound)

Stanley Ferry → Wakefield (~3 miles, 3 locks)
Start by crossing the Stanley Ferry Aqueduct, and cruise through Wakefield. You can moor near the Hepworth Gallery or in the city centre.

Wakefield → Mirfield (~9 miles, 12 locks)
Pass through Horbury and Thornhill. Mirfield is a great overnight stop, with pubs, shops, and services.

Mirfield → Brighouse (~6 miles, 9 locks)
Cruise past Shepley Bridge and Cooper Bridge. Brighouse is another ideal stop with good moorings, supermarkets, and eateries.

Brighouse → Hebden Bridge (~6 miles, 10 locks)
Enter the scenic Rochdale Canal. The route climbs through beautiful Pennine countryside and narrow lock flights, including Salterhebble and Sowerby Bridge.

Destination Highlight: Hebden Bridge

A historic market town in the Calder Valley, Famous for its independent shops, arts scene, and canal-side cafés. Great moorings and a vibrant yet peaceful atmosphere

Morning & Amenitites

Wakefield: Hepworth Wakefield, town centre
Mirfield: Near town centre or Shepley Bridge Marina
Brighouse: Sainsbury’s visitor moorings
Hebden Bridge: Visitor moorings close to town centre

Return Trip

Retrace your journey at your own pace. Consider staying longer in towns you passed quickly on the way out.

Why this route?

Manageable for a long weekend or week. Beautiful scenery and Pennine hills. Charming towns with good moorings and services. Just the right mix of locks and cruising for a rewarding trip

Download