Maps of locks and routes

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

Stanley Ferry Marina to Knottingley (Round Trip)

Recommended Duration: 2-3 days
Total Distance: Approximately 24 miles (12 miles each way)
Locks: Approximately 8 locks round trip (4 each way)
Estimated Cruising Time: Around 10–12 hours total

Route Overview

Stanley Ferry Marina to Castleford Junction

Distance: ~5 miles
Locks: 2
Highlights: Begin your journey by crossing the historic Stanley Ferry Aqueducts, marveling at their engineering. Proceed through Wakefield, enjoying the serene countryside and watching for local wildlife along the way.

Castleford Junction to Ferrybridge

Distance: ~5 miles
Locks: 1
Highlights: Navigate through Bulholme Lock and proceed to Ferrybridge, passing through the Aire & Calder Navigation’s main line.

Ferrybridge to Knottingley

Distance: ~2 miles
Locks: 1
Highlights: Continue through the Knottingley and Goole Canal, a completely artificial channel almost 19 miles long, opened in 1826, which bypassed the entire eastern lower reaches of the River Aire and provided a reliable non-tidal and higher capacity route to the Ouse via the new port of Goole.

Return Journey

Retrace your route from Knottingley back to Stanley Ferry Marina, taking the opportunity to revisit favorite spots or discover new ones along the way.

Suggested Stops & Attractions

Stanley Ferry Aqueducts: Marvel at the engineering of these twin aqueducts, one of which is a rare example of a cast-iron aqueduct in Europe.
Castleford: A bustling town with shopping centers, eateries, and the Junction 32 Outlet Shopping Village nearby.
Ferrybridge: Known for its historical significance and proximity to the former Ferrybridge Power Station.
Knottingley: Explore the UK’s most inland port, with its rich maritime history and the Goole Museum.

Tips for the Journey

Mooring: Ample mooring spots are available in Castleford, Ferrybridge, and Knottingley. Always check for signage indicating permitted mooring areas.
Locks: While the locks on this route are mechanized, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their operation before setting off.
Navigation: Ensure you have up-to-date canal maps or a reliable canal navigation app to assist with route planning and identifying facilities.

This journey offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, peaceful countryside, and vibrant town life, making it perfect for a leisurely 2–3 day cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to narrowboating, this route provides a manageable and enjoyable experience.

Stanley Ferry Marina to Booth’s Swing Bridge No. 195 (Round Trip)

Recommended Duration: 7–10 days
Total Distance: Approximately 82 miles (41 miles each way)
Locks: Approximately 56 locks round trip (28 each way)
Estimated Cruising Time: Around 40–44 hours total

Route Overview

Stanley Ferry Marina to Leeds Basin

Distance: ~15 miles
Locks: 8
Highlights: Cruise over the historic Stanley Ferry Aqueducts, marveling at their engineering. Proceed through Wakefield, enjoying the serene countryside and watching for local wildlife along the way.

Leeds Basin to Booth’s Swing Bridge No. 195

Distance: ~26 miles
Locks: 20
Highlights: Navigate the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, passing through towns like Shipley, Bingley, and Keighley. Experience the Bingley Five Rise Locks, one of the most impressive feats of canal engineering.

Return Journey

Retrace your route from Booth’s Swing Bridge No. 195 back to Stanley Ferry Marina, taking the opportunity to revisit favorite spots or discover new ones along the way.

Suggested Stops & Attractions

Wakefield: Visit the Hepworth Wakefield gallery, showcasing contemporary art and sculptures.
Leeds: Explore the vibrant city center, with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.
Bingley Five Rise Locks: Experience one of the most impressive feats of canal engineering.
Keighley: Discover the town’s rich industrial heritage and nearby Brontë Country.

Tips for the Journey

Mooring: Ample mooring spots are available in Wakefield, Leeds, Bingley, and Keighley. Always check for signage indicating permitted mooring areas.
Locks: While many locks on this route are mechanized, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their operation before setting off.
This journey offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, peaceful countryside, and vibrant towns, making it perfect for a leisurely 7–10 day cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to narrowboating, this route provides a manageable and enjoyable experience.

Stanley Ferry Marina to Todmorden (Out & Back)

Recommended Duration: 7-10 days
Total Distance: Approximately 64 miles round trip
Locks: Approximately 108 (54 each way)
Estimated Cruising Time: Around 56–60 hours total

Route Overview

Stanley Ferry Marina to Wakefield
Distance: ~3 miles
Locks: 3
Highlights: Begin your journey by crossing the historic Stanley Ferry Aqueducts, marveling at their engineering. Proceed to Wakefield, where you can moor near the Hepworth Wakefield gallery, showcasing contemporary art and sculptures.

Wakefield to Brighouse
Distance: ~12 miles
Locks: 24
Highlights: Navigate the Calder & Hebble Navigation, passing through towns like Mirfield and Elland. Brighouse offers mooring spots and local amenities, making it a convenient stopover.

Brighouse to Hebden Bridge
Distance: ~10 miles
Locks: 20
Highlights: Enter the Rochdale Canal and cruise through the picturesque Calder Valley. Hebden Bridge, known for its vibrant arts scene and independent shops, is a popular destination with ample mooring options.

Hebden Bridge to Todmorden
Distance: ~6 miles
Locks: 12
Highlights: Continue through the Rochdale Canal, enjoying the dramatic Pennine scenery. Todmorden offers a blend of historical architecture and natural beauty, with markets and cafes to explore.

Suggested Stops & Attractions

Stanley Ferry Aqueducts: Marvel at the engineering of these twin aqueducts, one of which is a rare example of a cast-iron aqueduct in Europe.
Wakefield: Visit the Hepworth Wakefield gallery, showcasing contemporary art and sculptures.
Brighouse: Explore local shops and enjoy riverside walks.
Hebden Bridge: Known for its vibrant arts scene, independent shops, and scenic surroundings.
Todmorden: Discover historical architecture, local markets, and beautiful landscapes.

Return Journey

Retrace your route from Todmorden back to Stanley Ferry Marina, taking the opportunity to revisit favorite spots or discover new ones along the way.

Tips for the Journey

Mooring: Ample mooring spots are available in Wakefield, Brighouse, Hebden Bridge, and Todmorden. Always check for signage indicating permitted mooring areas.
Locks: While the locks on this route are mechanized, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their operation before setting off.
Navigation: Ensure you have up-to-date canal maps or a reliable canal navigation app to assist with route planning and identifying facilities.
This route offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, peaceful countryside, and vibrant towns, making it perfect for a leisurely 7–10 day cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to narrowboating, this journey provides a manageable and enjoyable experience.

Stanley Ferry Marina to Goole

Total Distance: Approximately 33 miles – this is a round trip
Locks: Approximately 8 (plus several flood locks)
Waterways: Aire & Calder Navigation
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Route Overview

Stanley Ferry Marina to Castleford Junction
Distance: ~5 miles
Locks: 2
Highlights: Cruise over the historic Stanley Ferry Aqueducts, a pair of impressive structures spanning the River Calder. Enjoy the serene countryside and watch for local wildlife along the way.

Castleford Junction to Ferrybridge
Distance: ~5 miles
Locks: 1
Highlights: Navigate through Bulholme Lock and proceed to Ferrybridge, passing through the Aire & Calder Navigation’s main line.

Ferrybridge to Goole
Distance: ~23 miles
Locks: 5
Highlights: Continue through the Knottingley and Goole Canal, a completely artificial channel almost 19 miles long, opened in 1826, which bypassed the entire eastern lower reaches of the River Aire and provided a reliable non-tidal and higher capacity route to the Ouse via the new port of Goole.

Suggested Stops & Attractions

Stanley Ferry Aqueducts: Marvel at the engineering of these twin aqueducts, one of which is a rare example of a cast-iron aqueduct in Europe.
Castleford: A bustling town with shopping centers, eateries, and the Junction 32 Outlet Shopping Village nearby.
Ferrybridge: Known for its historical significance and proximity to the former Ferrybridge Power Station.
Goole: Explore the UK’s most inland port, with its rich maritime history and the Goole Museum.

Tips for the Journey

Mooring: Ample mooring spots are available in Castleford, Ferrybridge, and Goole. Always check for signage indicating permitted mooring areas.
Locks: While the locks on this route are mechanized, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their operation before setting off.
Navigation: Ensure you have up-to-date canal maps or a reliable canal navigation app to assist with route planning and identifying facilities.

This route offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, peaceful countryside, and vibrant town life, making it perfect for a leisurely cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to narrowboating, this journey provides a manageable and enjoyable experience.

Stanley Ferry Marina to Castleford & Woodlesford

Recommended Duration: 3-4 day trip
Total Distance: Approximately 28 miles round trip
Locks: 8 (4 each way)
Waterways: Aire & Calder Navigation
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Route Overview

Stanley Ferry Marina to Castleford
Distance: ~5 miles
Locks: 2
Highlights: Cruise over the historic Stanley Ferry Aqueducts, a pair of impressive structures spanning the River Calder. Enjoy the serene countryside and watch for local wildlife along the way.

Castleford to Woodlesford
Distance: ~9 miles
Locks: 2
Highlights: Navigate through the Aire & Calder Navigation’s main line, experiencing a mix of river and canal sections. Woodlesford offers peaceful moorings and is a great spot to explore the local area.

Return Journey

Retrace your route from Woodlesford back to Stanley Ferry Marina, enjoying the scenery from a new perspective.

Suggested Stops & Attractions

Stanley Ferry Aqueducts: Marvel at the engineering of these twin aqueducts, one of which is a rare example of a cast-iron aqueduct in Europe.
Castleford: A bustling town with shopping centers, eateries, and the Junction 32 Outlet Shopping Village nearby.
Woodlesford: A quaint village offering tranquil moorings and access to local walking trails and pubs.

Tips for the Journey

Mooring: Ample mooring spots are available in Castleford and Woodlesford. Always check for signage indicating permitted mooring areas.
Locks: While the locks on this route are mechanized, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their operation before setting off.
Navigation: Ensure you have up-to-date canal maps or a reliable canal navigation app to assist with route planning and identifying facilities.
This route offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, peaceful countryside, and charming towns, making it perfect for a leisurely 3–4 day cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to
narrow boating, this journey provides a manageable and enjoyable experience.

Stanley Ferry Marina to Leeds Basin

Recommended Duration: 3-4 day trip
Total Distance: Approximately 28 miles round trip
Locks: 8 (4 each way)
Waterways: Aire & Calder Navigation
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Route Overview

Stanley Ferry Marina to Castleford Junction
Distance: ~5 miles
Locks: 2
Highlights: Cruise over the historic Stanley Ferry Aqueducts, a pair of impressive structures spanning the River Calder. Enjoy the serene countryside and watch for local wildlife along the way.

Castleford Junction to Lemonroyd Lock
Distance: ~3 miles
Locks: 1
Highlights: Navigate through Bulholme Lock and proceed to Lemonroyd Lock, passing through the Aire & Calder Navigation’s main line.

Lemonroyd Lock to Woodlesford
Distance: ~2.5 miles
Locks: 1
Highlights: After Lemonroyd Lock, cruise to Woodlesford, a quaint village offering tranquil moorings and access to local walking trails and pubs.

Woodlesford to Leeds Basin
Distance: ~4.25 miles
Locks: 5
Highlights: Continue through Fishpond Lock, Knostrop Flood Lock, and Leeds Lock to reach Leeds Basin, located in the heart of the city

Suggested Stops & Attractions

Stanley Ferry Aqueducts: Marvel at the engineering of these twin aqueducts, one of which is a rare example of a cast-iron aqueduct in Europe.
Castleford: A bustling town with shopping centers, eateries, and the Junction 32 Outlet Shopping Village nearby.
Woodlesford: A peaceful village with scenic moorings, ideal for a relaxing stopover.
Leeds Basin: Located in the vibrant city center, offering access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

Tips for the Journey

Mooring: Ample mooring spots are available in Castleford, Woodlesford, and Leeds Basin. Always check
for signage indicating permitted mooring areas.
Locks: While the locks on this route are mechanized, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with their
operation before setting off.
Navigation: Ensure you have up-to-date canal maps or a reliable canal navigation app to assist with route planning and identifying facilities.
This route offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks, peaceful countryside, and vibrant city life, making it perfect for a leisurely 3–4 day cruise. Whether you’re a seasoned boater or new to
narrowboating, this journey provides a manageable and enjoyable experience.