Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on July 25th, 2026
•The Canal & River Trust is celebrating a significant milestone as it marks ten years of success with the Green Flag Awards, successfully retaining all ten of its awards in Yorkshire and the North East. This recognition highlights the importance of waterways in the region, which are not only vital for the environment but also play a crucial role in the community's wellbeing.
Green Flag Awards Overview
The Green Flag Awards, managed by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, recognise and reward well-managed parks and green spaces. They set a high standard for recreational outdoor areas across the UK and beyond. For the past decade, these awards have been instrumental in showcasing how canals contribute to communities, particularly in urban areas like Leeds, Teesside, and Sheffield, as well as in the beautiful rural landscapes of Yorkshire.
Celebrating the Waterways
The Green Flag waterways in Yorkshire include:
- Calder & Hebble
- Chesterfield Canal
- Huddersfield Narrow Canal
- Leeds & Liverpool Canal
- Pocklington Canal
- Ripon Canal
- Rochdale Canal
- Selby Canal
- Sheffield & Tinsley Canal
- Tees Barrage Park on the River Tees
These waterways not only provide picturesque views but also serve as important spaces for recreation and relaxation. They are free to visit, making them accessible to everyone, especially in areas where access to quality green spaces is limited.
Community Impact and Environmental Importance
The waterways contribute to various regional priorities, including health and wellbeing, sustainable transport, and community development. They play a part in national efforts to combat climate change, aligning with the government’s recent announcement of an accelerated path to meet the global 30by30 commitment. This commitment aims to protect 30% of the world's land and oceans by 2030, helping to tackle climate change and halt species extinction.
Voices from the Canal & River Trust
Campbell Robb, the chief executive at Canal & River Trust, expressed the significance of the Green Flag Awards, stating, “For ten years, Green Flag Awards have helped showcase the important contribution canals make to communities across England and Wales.” He emphasised that whether in bustling cities or serene countryside, canals offer spaces for people to enhance their wellbeing, stay active, and enjoy time with family and friends.
Robb also pointed out the challenges faced by these historical waterways, which have been in use for over 200 years. “These waterways don't look after themselves,” he explained. The growing impact of climate change poses serious threats, and he acknowledged the hard work of volunteers and supporters who strive to maintain these treasured spaces. “This recognition is a tribute to the dedication of our volunteers, supporters and colleagues who work tirelessly to care for these special places, and a reminder of the support needed to ensure this extraordinary part of our nation’s heritage remains here to benefit future generations,” he added.
Getting Involved
Canal & River Trust is responsible for looking after approximately 2,000 miles of canals and rivers across England and Wales, including 320 miles in Yorkshire alone. For those interested in supporting local waterways, there are various ways to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply visiting and enjoying these beautiful spaces, every little effort counts towards preserving these vital resources for future generations.
More information about how to support local canals can be found on the Canal & River Trust's website. By engaging with these waterways, individuals can help ensure they remain vibrant and accessible for everyone to enjoy.
