The 41-mile stretch linking Preston to Kendal comes in behind only the Caledonian canal in Scotland and narrowly missing out on Englands top spot to the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal.
The Lancaster Canal is one of the country's few coastal canals. Built along the natural lie of the land it offers lock free cruising in its entirety - the longest stretch in the country. As the canal is naturally level, it also lends itself to gentle walking and cycling as well as canoeing and other outdoor activities.
Here we look at some of the best things to do and places to go if your’re considering a trip to take in the sights of the Lancaster Canal.
Please be aware though, that the canal is closed at Woodplumpton from Moons Bridge to Hepgreave Bridge after part of the embankment and towpath collapsed near Moons Bridge Marina in July. The Canal and River Trust say the canal is due to reopen at the end of February, however, the towpath and public right of way will remain closed until the end of March.
5. The Mill at Conder Green
The Mill at Conder Green is ideally placed to enjoy the surrounding countryside. Step out of the Mill onto the towpath of the canal and 25 minutes later you reach the end to the canal at Glasson Dock. From the dock you can venture along the old railway path right into Lancaster. Alternatively, head east (behind the Mill) for views of the Bowland Fells and stunning countryside. After around 45 minutes walking you eventually meet the main Lancaster/Preston canal. | Garth Hamer Photo: Garth Hamer
6. Guys Thatched Hamlet, Canalside, St Michael's Road, Garstang
Guys Thatched Hamlet is on the canal, offering a range of rooms and the ever-popular Guy's Eating Establishment, Restaurant and Pizzeria, serving a varied international menu. There's also 'Owd Nell’s Canalside Tavern serving country tavern fayre along with quality cask beers, ales, continental lagers complemented by a wide range of world wines, spirits and soft drinks for you to enjoy. Seasonal activities are often held, such as a Halloween fairground and a Christmas ice rink. | LP Photo: Lancashire Post
7. Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre, Brock, Garstang,
The Flower Bowl Entertainment Centre is part of the Barton Grange complex in Brock, near Garstang. While everyone knows and loves a game of ten pin bowling, not many get the chance to combine that with a curling session on one of England’s only Olympic size curling rinks, or a game of crazy pool. There is also mini golf and a cinema which features incredible, plush sofas for you to relax and watch the latest movies one. https://www.theflowerbowl.uk/ | National World Photo: Lancashire Post
8. Glasson Dock
The harbour at Glasson originally opened in 1787 and now offers a range of scenic walks, rides and places for refrershments near to the Lancaster Canal. An easy ride starts along St George’s Quay, the heart of the old Port of Lancaste and ends up at Glasson Dock. An optional extra loop goes to the historic remains of Cockersands Abbey. Full directions at https://visitlancaster.org.uk/things-to-do/cycling/lancaster-to-glasson-dock-bike-ride/ | Stephen Garnett Photography. Image courtesy of Canal & River Trust. Photo: Stephen Garnett Photography. Image courtesy of Canal & River Trust.