Take the helm on the peaceful Leeds & Liverpool Canal near Leyburn with Skipton Boat Trips. Navigate 17 miles of scenic, lock-free water at your own pace for a relaxed day on the Yorkshire countryside.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility is sufficient; boating requires standing and steering but no strenuous effort.
Wildlife
History
The Leeds & Liverpool Canal, completed in 1816, was vital for industrial trade and remains the longest canal in Northern England.
Conservation
Skipton Boat Trips promotes low-impact boating practices to protect water quality and local habitats along the canal.
Skipton Boat Trips
Take the helm on the peaceful Leeds & Liverpool Canal near Leyburn with Skipton Boat Trips. Navigate 17 miles of scenic, lock-free water at your own pace for a relaxed day on the Yorkshire countryside.
Skipton Boat Trips operates canal cruises and self-drive boat experiences from Skipton on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal. The company offers a range of scheduled public cruises and private self‑drive day boat hire that showcase the Skipton dales and waterways. Popular experiences include Self‑Drive Day Boats navigating 17 miles of lock‑free canal, guided 1‑hour public trips with award‑winning comedian Dave Spikey, a two‑hour Fish and Chip Cruise serving award‑winning Yorkshire fish and chips from Bizzie Lizzie’s, and themed dining cruises such as Afternoon Tea and Roast Dinner aboard the Dalesman. Seasonal events include a Magical Santa Trip in December and a festive Public Christmas Dinner Cruise with a three‑course holiday meal.
Onboard offerings include a fully licensed bar, a selection of specialty cocktails and spirits on Drinks Ahoy cruises, and shareable Graze Boxes. Each trip combines scenic countryside views with comfortable amenities and food and drink service where noted. Self‑drive day boats allow small groups to navigate open, lock‑free stretches of canal at their own pace with guidance provided. Public cruises are guided or staffed, catering to visitors seeking narrated history, dining experiences, or family‑friendly festive events.
Skipton Boat Trips operates from Skipton, England, focusing on local canal experiences that highlight the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and surrounding dales. The business emphasizes safe, enjoyable outings, clear trip descriptions, and scheduled departures. Bookings are available for individuals, families, and groups; advance reservations are recommended to secure preferred dates and cruise types. Gift vouchers and private bookings are available on request today.
Routes
Leeds & Liverpool
Scenic canal routes from Skipton
Experiences
8 experiences
Public cruises and self‑drive options
Local Dining
Bizzie Lizzie’s
Award‑winning Yorkshire fish and chips
Trip Lengths
75–240 mins
Short to extended cruises available
Book dining cruises, Drinks Ahoy evenings, self‑drive adventures, and seasonal Santa or Christmas dinners — limited spaces, advance booking recommended.
Book in advance
Skipton Boat Trips’ self-drive boats are popular, so reserve your spot ahead, especially on weekends and holidays.
Bring waterproof layers
Weather can shift quickly along the canal; pack lightweight waterproofs even in summer.
Familiarize yourself with basics
A brief briefing covers steering and controls—pay attention for a smooth, safe trip.
Mind the wildlife
Keep noise to a minimum to spot kingfishers and herons along the banks without disturbing them.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against unpredictable weather along the canal.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Essential for sun protection during long exposed hours on the water.
summer
Sturdy footwear
Helpful for boarding and moving safely on the boat.
Binoculars
Great for spotting wildlife such as kingfishers and herons along the banks.