See below for more information about what the Huddersfield Narrow Canal has to offer, including walking, riding, cycling, birdwatching and fishing or click the map above (there are three clickable areas) for a more detailed map and information about specific activities along the canal.

There are numerous interesting and exciting things to do and see along the length of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. The canal is surrounded by the countryside of the Tame and Colne Valleys, named after the two rivers that run close by the canal.

The countryside of the canal corridor is varied and offers many leisure and outdoor opportunities. The scenery includes the dramatic Pennine moorland and the natural beauty of the Peak District National Park. Reservoirs in spectacular settings, leafy country lanes, traditional woodland and river valleys, plus picturesque Pennine villages make a delightful setting for canal-side activities.

Huddersfield: Tel. 01484 223200

Saddleworth: Tel. 01457 874093/870336

Oldham: Tel. 0161 627 1024

Tameside: Tel. 0161 343 4343

Walking and rambling opportunities abound in the area, ranging from a leisurely stroll along the canal in tranquil countryside, passing trip boats, flights of locks and ducks and swans to larger expeditions.

There are plenty of public footpaths and way-marked routes to suit all capabilities. These include the Pennine Way long-distance footpath, the Standedge Trail, and the Tame Valley, Oldham and Kirklees Ways.

Further information is available by clicking the map above.

There are excellent opportunities for angling along the scenic banks of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which is well stocked with a wide range of coarse fish including roach and carp. Fishing on the canal is administered by locally based angling clubs from which day or season tickets can be obtained. For further details please contact:

British Waterways
North West Regional Office
Navigation Road
Northwich
Cheshire
Tel. 01606 723800

Whilst over half of the Huddersfield Narrow Canal has been restored, for the time being it is not possible to navigate its full length. The is, of course, our very own Pennine Moonraker operating from Uppermill and there is also a floating tea room on a narrowboat at Slaithwaite (confusingly, also called the Pennine Moonraker!!). Trail boats and canoes, however, are able to travel on what is one of the most tranquil waterways in England. For details of cruising, slip ways and boat licensing contact:

British Waterways
Tunnel End
Waters Road
Marsden
Huddersfield
Tel. 01484 844298

There's excellent shopping throughout the area - with bustling markets, mill shops offering goods at manufacturers' prices and craft shops set in attractive town and village shopping centres. Further details from local Tourist Information Centres (see above).

Other activities include cycling on country lanes and cycle tracks, climbing, water sports and even more adventurous sports such as paragliding. After all that activity, enjoy the fayre of one of many traditional country pubs or tea shops.

A full calendar of events and activities makes the canal a great place to visit throughout the year. They range from the annual canal festivals, bustling with narrowboats, to brass band concerts and competitions, country and village shows, organised walks and craft events. Events listings available from Tourist Information Centres (see above).