Boat Hire
Shire Cruisers
The Wharf, Sowerby Bridge HX6 2AG.
Boat Hire
#1 Rated Boat Hire on the Rochdale Canal and Calder & Hebble Navigation
Boat Hire Companies on the Rochdale Canal and Calder & Hebble Navigation
The Rochdale Canal and Calder & Hebble Navigation are two important waterways in northern England, forming a key link across the Pennines between Manchester and the Yorkshire town of Sowerby Bridge. The Rochdale Canal, opened in 1804, was the first trans-Pennine canal, renowned for its challenging flight of locks and dramatic scenery as it climbs through moorlands and valleys. At Sowerby Bridge, it connects with the Calder & Hebble Navigation—a canalized river route completed in the late 18th century to facilitate the transport of wool, coal, and other goods through West Yorkshire. Today, these waterways are popular with boaters, walkers, and cyclists, offering a scenic and historic route through vibrant cities, market towns, and picturesque countryside, as well as access to a rich heritage of locks, aqueducts, and canal-side pubs.
Boat hire in the UK is a unique, relaxing way to explore over 3,000 miles of historic canals, rivers and waterways. Boats—ranging from narrowboats to wide-beam barges—are available across England, Scotland, and Wales, with no experience needed and full training provided. Modern amenities, flexible rental periods, and a range of prices make it accessible for families, couples, and groups. Popular bases include Bath, Trevor, Great Haywood, and Wootton Wawen. Cruising at 3-4 mph, boaters enjoy scenic routes, waterside pubs, and hidden countryside, making canal holidays a memorable alternative to traditional travel.
Rochdale Canal and Calder & Hebble Navigation's Best Boat Hire Companies in 2026
Boat Hire
#2 Rated Boat Hire on the Rochdale Canal and Calder & Hebble Navigation
