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. |
