Launch of Burnley Canal Festival

Burnley Canal Festival got off to a hugely successful start in glorious late Spring weather on 22 May when a group consisting of the Press and the Festival Steering Committee as well as volunteers and staff from The Waterways Trust enjoyed a cruise along the Leeds Liverpool Canal from Reedley Marina to Burnley aboard The Pendle Explorer. Light refreshments were served upon arrival in Burnley Wharf, courtesy of the Inn on the Wharf.

Burnley Wharf

Emma Bartlet, Burnley Canal Officer, revealed that the Festival organisers are looking forward to welcoming many canal boat enthusiasts and canal boaters from Burnley and all over the UK. The organisers are hoping that there will be in excess of 30 colourful canal boats moored between Burnley Wharf and Sandygate Square, many decorated especially for the Festival. 

Canal boat trips will run regularly throughout the day along the Burnley canal embankment – the “Straight Mile” - which is renowned as one of the Seven Wonders of the Waterways World. Emma also gave details of all of the other exciting events planned throughout the Festival, with entertainment for all the family.

The launch of the Festival ended with a visit to the historic Weavers' Triangle Visitor Centre,where the Group learnt more about the story of the canal, cotton and the Weavers' Triangle.

Further details about the Burnley Canal Festival, follow this blog or visit Facebook - Burnley Canal Communities Project, Twitter - @burnleycanal and by contacting us via email.

For bookings and other enquiries regarding the boat gathering, please contact Lee Shepherd at Hapton Valley Boats.