Carnforth
The Lancaster Canal North of Hest Bank passes to the West of
Bolton-le-Sands. At this point, the sea is never far away to the West, with the
A6 trunk road running alongside until it arrives in Carnforth. The canal
wanders passed the town, mostly in cuttings, towards the M6 Motorway. At it's
widest point a major boatyard and moorings are on the East bank of the canal,
and a very handy petrol station on the East Bank, only yards from the canal,
located between the canal and the main road. At the Nu-Way Acorn boatyard
narrow boats and cruisers used to be hired, overnight and long stay moorings
are available. The boatyard specialise in winter storage, boat sales and engine
repairs. Carnforth area of the canal is not particularly pretty but has many
good shops and is a railway junction for both North-South and east-West trains.
Carnforth was the last town in the country to lose it's regular British Rail
steam trains, in 1968. The SteamTown Railway Centre had a fine collection of
railway relics, housed in what was one of the countries last steam depots.
Unfortunately it is now closed. However, Carnforth station is being rejuvenated
and a visitor centre has now opened (01524 735450), call for more information
or visit the Carnforth Station web site. There are several good public
houses and supermarkets within easy reach of the canal. There is an excellent
coin operated Launderette which is located a short walk from the canal at
Carnforth mooring at the Canal Turn pub. The address is 2A Stanley Street, LA5
9DX. It's open from 08.00 till Late seven days a week