Offer: Up to 25% off Canal Boat Holidays

Ever feel the need to just slow down and escape the daily rush? It seems more and more people are finding the perfect antidote on the water. There is some great news coming from the canals near Skipton, where short breaks are getting rave reviews. It turns out that a few days spent chugging along at a snail's pace, surrounded by lovely scenery, is just what the doctor ordered. And the starting point for these relaxing adventures? A friendly canal boat base in Silsden.

A perfect short break on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal

Imagine this: you, your family, and your very own narrowboat. For three nights, you’re the captain. The latest feedback from guests returning from trips starting at the Silsden base is overwhelmingly positive. People are having a brilliant time.

Mark Beard, the manager at the base, has shared that:

“Customers are having a great time cruising west of Silsden along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, enjoying the beautiful scenery and exploring the charming market town of Skipton.”

It sounds pretty idyllic, doesn't it?

The suggested itinerary for a short break is a return trip that takes about 12 hours of cruising in total. That’s just a few hours a day, leaving loads of time to moor up and explore. The route covers 21 miles each way from the Silsden base, taking boaters through some of the most stunning scenery on the borders of West and North Yorkshire. This popular itinerary is super flexible, with trips starting on a Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

Exploring the market town of Skipton

The destination for this mini-adventure is the lovely market town of Skipton, often called the ‘Gateway to the Dales’. And it’s easy to see why guests are loving it. After a gentle cruise along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, arriving in Skipton feels like a real reward. The town is famous for its 900-year-old castle, which stands proudly at the top of the High Street. It’s one of the most complete and best-preserved medieval castles in England, and a great place to explore for an afternoon.

But it's not just about the castle. Skipton is a bustling market town, with market days four times a week. It’s the perfect spot to wander around, pick up some local produce, and soak up the atmosphere. Think cobbled streets, independent shops, and cosy pubs perfect for a bit of lunch. Mooring up your boat in the canal basin puts you right in the middle of all the action. It's the kind of place where you can just potter about, enjoying a slower pace of life before starting the relaxing cruise back to Silsden. The journey itself, with its incredible scenery and peaceful cruising, is just as much a part of the holiday as the destination.

Spooky special offers for October half term

Thinking about an autumn break? There are some great special offers available that might just tempt you. For families looking for something a bit different this October half term, a canal boat holiday could be the answer. There’s a special offer on right now that gives a 25% discount on family holidays. As if that wasn't enough, there’s also a Halloween treat included.

A canal boat trip during October half term is a chance to see the waterway’s beautiful scenery in a different light. The crisp air, the golden colours, and the cosy evenings spent inside the boat make for a memorable family experience. It’s a unique way to spend the school holiday, getting everyone out in the fresh air and working together as a crew.

Plan ahead with an early booking discount for 2026

For those who like to be organised and plan their holidays well in advance, there’s even more good news. Another one of the fantastic special offers involves thinking ahead to 2026. Anyone making a booking for a 2026 canal boat holiday can do so by 30 September 2025 to lock in 2025 prices. In a world where costs seem to always be going up, fixing your holiday price a year in advance is a smart move.

On top of securing 2025 prices for a trip in 2026, there’s an extra saving to be had. An early booking also comes with a 10% discount. So, not only do you get peace of mind knowing your holiday is sorted, but you also save a bit of money. This early booking discount is perfect for families planning their big summer holiday or anyone who wants to guarantee their spot on the popular routes from the Silsden base. Getting your booking in early means you have something amazing to look forward to, all while being kind to your wallet.