Unlock the Waterways

The Leeds and Liverpool Canal, which is the longest canal in the country, runs through the heart of the Chorley borough and once upon a time was the lifeblood of the industrial revolution-carrying supplies to and from the mills. Today it is transformed. Rich in wildlife, the canal has some lovely tow paths to explore and you can even hire a narrow boat and take a trip on the water yourself.

Ellerbeck Narrowboats

For a relaxing cruise along a lock-free stretch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, hire a self-steer 30ft Ellerbeck Narrowboat between Wigan Top Lock and Johnson’s Hillock Locks at Wheelton in Chorley. A trip down this 11-mile stretch of waterway will showcase some of the most picturesque rural views over the Douglas Valley and the Rivington Moors.