CanalPlanAC

Stoppages, Events and Notices



IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

29181Anderton LiftAnderton Lift (River Weaver)Anderton Lift (Trent and Mersey)03 January 202513 March 2027Earlier this year, the Anderton Boat Lift was closed after a lifting wire failure during planned routine maintenance by our teams. Unfortunately, it is not possible to reopen the lift using the existing gate lifting system. Trust engineers have been working closely with specialist consultants to develop a solution that will see the original rope-and-pulley mechanism replaced on all gates with a more modern, robust and safer lifting system making the lift more reliable.

We're pleased to confirm that the Trust has prioritised the funding required to support the detailed engineering design. However, this work will take time, and the lift will remain closed throughout all next year 2026. We understand how frustrating this closure will be for boaters who regularly use this vital link between the Weaver Navigation and the rest of the Trust's network. The significant investment we're making into this repair reflects how important the lift is to our waterways. Although the lift itself will stay closed, the Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre will remain open, with an exciting programme of events and activities planned for 2026. We hope you'll continue to visit and enjoy everything the site has to offer.

This essential redesign work is being delivered ahead of, and separately from, the wider refurbishment programme. We'll continue to share updates as the project progresses.

We also understand the impact that Marsh Lock's closure is having on customers wanting to visit the Weaver. Our teams are working through the options to bring the lock back into operation, and you can follow updates [here.](

Thank you for your ongoing patience and support for this vital and historic structure.
13 March 26 19:14:10

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

30524Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Stanley Dock Branch)Stanley Bottom Lock No 4Mann Island Basin15 May 202605 July 2026The Liverpool Link will be temporarily closed from 15 May to 5 July while Peel carries out essential construction and maintenance works in the Central Docks.

We have worked to keep disruption to a minimum; however, as our rights are limited to permitting our customers to travel through Peel's property, the owners are able to close this section at any time to carry out necessary repairs and maintenance. The Trust has very limited control over access to this area and has not been able to prevent this closure.

During this time, access to Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock will only be possible via Brunswick Lock, which can be booked directly through Liverpool Marina. This route requires a crossing from Ellesmere Port via the Manchester Ship Canal and the River Mersey.

We understand this may affect your plans, and we're working closely with Peel to keep disruption to a minimum. If you already have a booking during the closure period, our team will have been in contact to talk through any changes and help make alternative arrangements where needed.
Outside of these dates, Liverpool Link passages and moorings into Salthouse Dock will continue as normal.

If you'd like to make a new booking or discuss an existing one, our North West Customer Service Team will be happy to help on 0303 0404 040.
We are sorry for any disruption caused to your boating plans during this closure.
17 March 26 20:51:58

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

19378Middle Level Navigations (Forty Foot River)Welches Dam SluiceWelches Dam Sluice13 October 202312 October 2099This lock is closed permanently.13 October 23 19:19:13

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

29735Shropshire Union Canal (Llangollen Canal - Main Line)Grindley Brook Bottom Lock No 14Whitchurch Ring Road Bridge No 31A22 December 202531 March 2027We are today able to share the initial findings of the investigation into the Llangollen Canal breach that occurred at Whitchurch, Shropshire, last December. The full investigation is still ongoing while the site is being drained and cleared, and a further report will be made available once it has concluded in the coming months.

Prepared by Canal & River Trust engineers, supported by technical experts, the initial report poses an emerging hypothesis for the possible causes of the breach. At this stage the findings suggest the breach was likely caused by a combination of a number of specific physical characteristics in this location, combined with an undetected long-term, deep-seated leak beneath the canal bed, which we believe caused erosion below the canal bed, ultimately resulting in the collapse of the embankment.

While breaches of this scale remain extremely rare, we are already taking forward a number of recommendations from the investigation in order to ensure we take all action possible to enhance the resilience of canal infrastructure. This includes exploring new and innovative technologies to assist in maintenance, inspection and monitoring regimes.

We are committed to repairing the canal and restoring navigation as soon as possible in order to get boats back on the water and to allow all users to enjoy this stretch of the canal again. We will post further updates as the repair progresses, and in the meantime thank everyone again for their patience and support.

Read the initial findings report [here]( .
31 March 26 10:00:02

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

26642Grand Union Canal (Leicester Section - Old Grand Union)Watford Bottom Lock No 1Watford Top Lock No 729 March 202502 May 2026Watford Lock Flight Opening Times:

29th March 2025:


Flight open 09:30am, last boat in at 2:45pm


30th March 2025 - 28th June 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


29th June 2025 - 13th September 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 6pm


14th September 2025 - 25th October 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


26th October 2025 - 28th March 2026


Flight open 09.30am, last boat in at 3pm


Please ensure you have booked in with the lock keeper before you enter Lock 1 or 7.


The lock keeper will either be on the flight, or in the Top Lock Keepers Hut.


If you enter the Locks without booking in, you may be required to back out, as other boats may be working the flight.


Please follow any advice given by Trust representatives on site.












06 May 25 19:24:58

26643Grand Union Canal (Leicester Section - Old Grand Union)Foxton Bottom StaircaseFoxton Top Staircase29 March 202502 May 2026Foxton Lock Flight Opening Times:

29th March 2025:


Flight open 09:30am, last boat in at 2:45pm


30th March 2025 - 28th June 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


29th June 2025 - 13th September 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 6pm


14th September 2025 - 25th October 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


26th October 2025 - 28th March 2026


Flight open 09.30am, last boat in at 3pm


Please ensure you have booked in with the lock keeper before you enter Lock 8 or 17.


The lock keeper will either be on the flight, or in the Top Lock Keepers Hut.


If you enter the Locks without booking in, you may be required to back out, as other boats may be working the flight.


Please follow any advice given by Trust representatives on site.












06 May 25 19:24:58

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

30632Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Main Line - Wigan to Leeds)Five Rise Locks Swing Bridge No 200Kirkstall Forge Staircase Locks Nos 8 to 1031 March 202625 March 2027As we move into Summer operating hours on the Leeds & Liverpool canal from Tuesday 31st March operating times on the following lock flights will be implemented.
Bingley 5 & 3 Rise locks.
Morning

* Passages down the lock flight: 08:00 – 10:00 (last entry at 09:00)
* Passages up the lock flight: 10:00 – 12:00 (last entry at 11:00)

Afternoon

* Passages down the lock flight: 13:00 – 15:00 (last entry at 14:00)
* Passages up the lock flight: 15:00 – 17:00 (last entry at 16:00)

Bank Newton and Gargrave locks
Will be available for self-operation between the hours of 08:00 and 16:00 daily. However, there will be roving lock keepers to offer assistance through the locks if required.

Newlay, Forge & Kirkstall Locks
Will be available for self-operation between the hours of 08:00 and 16:00 daily. However, there will be roving lock keepers between Leeds & Newlay to offer assistance through the locks if required.
 
What you can do to help?
Your cooperation during this time is essential and deeply appreciated. Here are some things you can do to help reduce strain on the system:

* Share locks where possible and make the best use of the water available.
* Make sure paddles are fully closed once you've passed through a lock.
* Aim for minimal contact when navigating through locks by ensuring gates are fully open as you pass through.
* Pushing gates open using a boat can damage the gate lining, increasing its leakage.
* If you spot a leak or any suspicious activities please call us on 0303 040 4040 or emailing via [contact-us](

 
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to manage the canal sustainably.
Contact us | Canal & River Trust
Read our FAQs to find the answers you need. You can also write to us, or get in touch via phone, email or live chat.
 
Read our FAQs to find the answers you need. You can also write to us, or get in touch via phone, email or live chat.
 
25 March 26 21:59:56

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

30122Trent and Mersey Canal (Main Line - Etruria to Hardings Wood)Harecastle Tunnel (northern entrance)Harecastle Tunnel (southern entrance)01 March 202631 October 2026Following feedback on our original operating proposal, the Trust have revised the booking arrangements for Harecastle Tunnel.

From 1 April 2026, passages will operate as follows:

* Bookable passages at 8am (Southbound) and 9am (Northbound)
* Open, non bookable window from 10am to 2pm
* Bookable passages at 2pm (Southbound) and 3pm (Northbound)

The open window allows boats to arrive and pass through without a booking, subject to capacity and safe operation on the day. Each passage can accommodate up to eight boats.

While these times provide a clear structure, the tunnel team will remain flexible wherever possible. Staff and volunteers will use their judgement on the day to make best use of available capacity, including accommodating unbooked boats, using unused booking slots, or allowing early arrivals to join an earlier passage where it is safe to do so.

Changes to bookings should be made by 5pm on the day before your planned passage wherever possible. Where late changes cannot be made online, the team will try to accommodate them on the day, although this cannot be guaranteed.

Please pre-book online here: < >. For any other enquiries, please contact us on 0303 0404040. For direct tunnel enquiries please email eventsnorthstaffs@canalrivertrust.org.uk.
27 March 26 11:00:04

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

19378Middle Level Navigations (Forty Foot River)Welches Dam SluiceWelches Dam Sluice13 October 202312 October 2099This lock is closed permanently.13 Oct 23 19:19:13

25756Bridgewater Canal (Main Line)Agden Bridge No 26Dunham Town Bridge No 2702 January 202513 March 2027The Bridgewater Canal is currently closed between Agden Bridge No. 26 and Dunham Town Bridge No. 27 due to a breach. This section is managed by the Bridgewater Canal Company, not the Canal & River Trust. However, as this canal connects to our network and forms part of the Cheshire Cruising Ring, we are liaising closely with them.

Nearest Winding Holes:

* West of the Breach: Between Oughtrington Bridge No. 24 and Lymm Bridge No. 23.
* East of the Breach: Between Seamon's Moss Bridge No. 29 and Broadheath Bridge No. 30.

Canal & River Trust Customers

If any of our customers are stuck on the Bridgewater Canal, please contact our North West Customer Service Team at 0303 0404 040 for support.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For additional details, visit the Bridgewater Canal Company website: < >
13 Mar 26 19:14:00

29181Anderton LiftAnderton Lift (River Weaver)Anderton Lift (Trent and Mersey)03 January 202513 March 2027Earlier this year, the Anderton Boat Lift was closed after a lifting wire failure during planned routine maintenance by our teams. Unfortunately, it is not possible to reopen the lift using the existing gate lifting system. Trust engineers have been working closely with specialist consultants to develop a solution that will see the original rope-and-pulley mechanism replaced on all gates with a more modern, robust and safer lifting system making the lift more reliable.

We're pleased to confirm that the Trust has prioritised the funding required to support the detailed engineering design. However, this work will take time, and the lift will remain closed throughout all next year 2026. We understand how frustrating this closure will be for boaters who regularly use this vital link between the Weaver Navigation and the rest of the Trust's network. The significant investment we're making into this repair reflects how important the lift is to our waterways. Although the lift itself will stay closed, the Anderton Boat Lift Visitor Centre will remain open, with an exciting programme of events and activities planned for 2026. We hope you'll continue to visit and enjoy everything the site has to offer.

This essential redesign work is being delivered ahead of, and separately from, the wider refurbishment programme. We'll continue to share updates as the project progresses.

We also understand the impact that Marsh Lock's closure is having on customers wanting to visit the Weaver. Our teams are working through the options to bring the lock back into operation, and you can follow updates [here.](

Thank you for your ongoing patience and support for this vital and historic structure.
13 Mar 26 19:14:10

28898River Avon (Kennet and Avon Navigation)Kelston Lock No 5Kelston Lock No 510 September 202510 October 2026Further to the notice below, please be advised that our assisted passage days at Lock 5, Kelston Lock have now finished.
However our team will be happy to support passage through the lock when we have colleagues and volunteers available.    

If you require assistance through the lock please contact us at enquiries.walessouthwest@canalrivertrust.org.uk or 03030 404040 where our team will be able to help with dates and timings.
10 Oct 25 20:11:23

29253Chesterfield Canal (Norwood to Retford)Field Bridge No 33Dog Kennels Bridge No 3131 October 202513 March 2027Current containment methods will be kept in place as the Environment Agency are still carrying out their investigations to identify the source of the pollution.

Further updates will be given by the 16th of March.
13 Mar 26 19:14:11

29735Shropshire Union Canal (Llangollen Canal - Main Line)Grindley Brook Bottom Lock No 14Whitchurch Ring Road Bridge No 31A22 December 202531 March 2027We are today able to share the initial findings of the investigation into the Llangollen Canal breach that occurred at Whitchurch, Shropshire, last December. The full investigation is still ongoing while the site is being drained and cleared, and a further report will be made available once it has concluded in the coming months.

Prepared by Canal & River Trust engineers, supported by technical experts, the initial report poses an emerging hypothesis for the possible causes of the breach. At this stage the findings suggest the breach was likely caused by a combination of a number of specific physical characteristics in this location, combined with an undetected long-term, deep-seated leak beneath the canal bed, which we believe caused erosion below the canal bed, ultimately resulting in the collapse of the embankment.

While breaches of this scale remain extremely rare, we are already taking forward a number of recommendations from the investigation in order to ensure we take all action possible to enhance the resilience of canal infrastructure. This includes exploring new and innovative technologies to assist in maintenance, inspection and monitoring regimes.

We are committed to repairing the canal and restoring navigation as soon as possible in order to get boats back on the water and to allow all users to enjoy this stretch of the canal again. We will post further updates as the repair progresses, and in the meantime thank everyone again for their patience and support.

Read the initial findings report [here]( .
31 Mar 26 10:00:02

29784Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal (Main Line: Autherley to Great Haywood)Penkridge Lock No 38Penkridge Lock No 3831 December 202501 May 2026We have successfully cleared the route of the bywash culvert to the required size in preparation for the installation of the liner.

Additional material that was washed into the canal bed around the failure has also been removed, and brickwork repairs are continuing on site.

The culvert liner is currently being manufactured and is planned to be installed shortly after the Easter period. We will provide a further update as work progresses.
26 Mar 26 12:00:01

29958River KennetBurghfield Lock No 103Burghfield Lock No 10317 January 202627 March 2027 
Further to the notice below, the damage to the gate has now been assessed.

We are preparing to mobilise to site to remove the lift gate and carry out the repair work.

We will update this notice with confirmed time scales when available.

You are welcome to contact us at [enquiries.walessouthwest@canalrivertrust.org.uk](mailto:enquiries.walessouthwest@canalrivertrust.org.uk) or 03030 404040 if you would like to discuss this information with a member of our Customer Service Team.
27 Mar 26 14:00:05

29984Lee and Stort Navigation (River Lee)Ware Lock No 2Ware Lock No 221 January 202631 March 2027Unfortunately, following further information from the Environment Agency we can confirm that the lock closure will be extended until 11 May 2026.

This is subject to further reviews from the Environment Agency and may change at short notice if further issues arise.

Every effort is being made by the Environment Agency to reopen the navigation when and where possible, and we will update this notice with more information when we're provided with updates.

Further information and updates in the interim can be obtained via the EA National Customer Contact Centre on 0800 80 70 60.

Alternatively, they can be reached via email the local EA team at HNL-APTENQUIRIES@environment-agency.gov.uk and they will respond.
31 Mar 26 08:00:01

30167Birmingham Canal Navigations (Daw End Branch)Northywood BridgeAldridge Wharf Bridge09 February 202623 March 2027Navigation and the towpath remains closed until further notice while we work to contain the pollution incident. Contractors are expected to begin work this week to excavate the affected towpath.

We will continue to provide updates as work progresses.
23 Mar 26 12:00:03

30590Huddersfield Narrow CanalShuttle Lock No 24EShuttle Lock No 24E21 March 202631 March 2027The wood to cut the stop planks has been ordered and measurements have been taken. Once the wood arrives and has been cut to size, we will able to confirm a date for works to begin and a provide a projected completion date.31 Mar 26 11:00:04

30675Rochdale CanalFirst Laneside Lock No 54Butler Lane Lock No 8130 March 202602 April 2027Our engineers have been out to site to take a closer look at the lock gate, and they've confirmed that the timber has become badly rotten. Unfortunately, this means the lock can't be used safely and will remain closed.
We're now working on the best way to carry out the repair and will move things forward as quickly as we can.
We'll share another update on or before Friday 17 April.
02 Apr 26 16:00:02

30678Huddersfield Narrow CanalCellars Lock No 34ECellars Lock No 34E30 March 202631 March 2027A navigation closure has had to be placed as the yoke which connects the hydraulic ram to the paddle has snapped and needs repairing.
A notice to skippers, not to attempt to start the flight as there are no suitable pounds to moor in. We will ensure that the notice is updated so customers are are aware when they are able to proceed and can be updated on the booking system for the Marsden Flight.
31 Mar 26 11:00:03

30698Rochdale CanalButler Lane Lock No 81Ancoats Lower Lock No 8331 March 202602 April 2027Our team and engineers have now carried out detailed inspections,and a leak has been identified below Lock 81.
We are now planning a method of repair.
 
We will provide further update Friday 17 April

Thank you for your understanding and patience
02 Apr 26 15:00:01

30496Grand Union Canal (Regent's Canal)Old Ford Lock No 8Old Ford Lock No 812 May 202619 May 2026A stoppage is required to replace the top gates and balance beams at LK 8 Old Ford, the existing gates had emergency holding repairs made in November 2025, after being severely damaged due to boat strike.

Top stop plank installation is required to carry out the gate replacement, with a navigation closure in place.

Navigation will start and end at Old Ford Lock 8
13 Mar 26 19:14:30

30524Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Stanley Dock Branch)Stanley Bottom Lock No 4Mann Island Basin15 May 202605 July 2026The Liverpool Link will be temporarily closed from 15 May to 5 July while Peel carries out essential construction and maintenance works in the Central Docks.

We have worked to keep disruption to a minimum; however, as our rights are limited to permitting our customers to travel through Peel's property, the owners are able to close this section at any time to carry out necessary repairs and maintenance. The Trust has very limited control over access to this area and has not been able to prevent this closure.

During this time, access to Albert Dock and Salthouse Dock will only be possible via Brunswick Lock, which can be booked directly through Liverpool Marina. This route requires a crossing from Ellesmere Port via the Manchester Ship Canal and the River Mersey.

We understand this may affect your plans, and we're working closely with Peel to keep disruption to a minimum. If you already have a booking during the closure period, our team will have been in contact to talk through any changes and help make alternative arrangements where needed.
Outside of these dates, Liverpool Link passages and moorings into Salthouse Dock will continue as normal.

If you'd like to make a new booking or discuss an existing one, our North West Customer Service Team will be happy to help on 0303 0404 040.
We are sorry for any disruption caused to your boating plans during this closure.
17 Mar 26 20:51:58

30733Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal (Stourport Basins: Broad Route)Stourport Lower Broad LockStourport Lower Broad Lock07 September 202619 October 2026We apologise for the need to schedule an in‑season stoppage on the Staffordshire & Worcestershire Canal.
 
We're carrying out essential improvement works at Bottom Barge Lock, including the replacement of the top gates and coping stone repairs. To complete this work safely, a stoppage will be in place from 7 September to 19 October 2026
 
These works were originally planned for the recent Intensive Maintenance Period but had to be deferred. During our final preparations, we identified on‑site conditions that meant the works could not be carried out safely or without causing disruption to moored craft at that time. Following local consultation, it has been agreed that this is the preferred time to undertake these essential works.
 
During the stoppage, the narrow lock between the Severn and the canal will remain open, and boats up to 2.1 metres in width will still be able to move between the basin and the river. Only wider craft will be restricted from passing through the site during this period.
 
We appreciate your understanding and patience while these improvements take place.
02 Apr 26 18:38:51

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

IDCanalFromToStart DateEnd DateDescription ( Click to see original C&RT Notice )Last Updated

24824Shropshire Union Canal (Montgomery Canal - connected and navigable)Frankton Staircase Lock No 1Frankton Bottom Lock No 317 March 202502 May 2026Frankton Locks Summer Opening Times 2025:

Opening Times: 9:00 hrs - 13:00 hrs daily


Booking is required for passage through the locks and booking must be made no later than the day before passage. There will be no passage outside of these opening times.


Online booking is available, please click to Customers are advised that there is a maximum of 12 boats allowed down the locks and 12 boats allowed up the locks per day. Booking in advance is recommended to avoid disappointment.


There is a minimum of 1 night and a maximum of 14 nights stay.


If you have any questions, then please email enquiries.westmidlands@canalrivertrust.org.uk or call us on 0303 040 4040












06 May 25 19:24:52

26642Grand Union Canal (Leicester Section - Old Grand Union)Watford Bottom Lock No 1Watford Top Lock No 729 March 202502 May 2026Watford Lock Flight Opening Times:

29th March 2025:


Flight open 09:30am, last boat in at 2:45pm


30th March 2025 - 28th June 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


29th June 2025 - 13th September 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 6pm


14th September 2025 - 25th October 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


26th October 2025 - 28th March 2026


Flight open 09.30am, last boat in at 3pm


Please ensure you have booked in with the lock keeper before you enter Lock 1 or 7.


The lock keeper will either be on the flight, or in the Top Lock Keepers Hut.


If you enter the Locks without booking in, you may be required to back out, as other boats may be working the flight.


Please follow any advice given by Trust representatives on site.












06 May 25 19:24:58

26643Grand Union Canal (Leicester Section - Old Grand Union)Foxton Bottom StaircaseFoxton Top Staircase29 March 202502 May 2026Foxton Lock Flight Opening Times:

29th March 2025:


Flight open 09:30am, last boat in at 2:45pm


30th March 2025 - 28th June 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


29th June 2025 - 13th September 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 6pm


14th September 2025 - 25th October 2025


Flight open 8am, last boat in at 5pm


26th October 2025 - 28th March 2026


Flight open 09.30am, last boat in at 3pm


Please ensure you have booked in with the lock keeper before you enter Lock 8 or 17.


The lock keeper will either be on the flight, or in the Top Lock Keepers Hut.


If you enter the Locks without booking in, you may be required to back out, as other boats may be working the flight.


Please follow any advice given by Trust representatives on site.












06 May 25 19:24:58

27824Chesterfield Canal (Norwood to Retford)Kilton Lock No 52Kilton Lock No 5211 June 202530 March 2027Kilton Lock to Bracebridge Lock - 1st April 2026 to 30th September 2026
From 1st April 2026, booking will no longer be needed. The Operative Team will be present at the lock on Monday and Thursday every week at 11am for passage through the locks. Please ensure crafts are at the locks for these times for staff to know who is wishing to have passage.

Passage will be conducted one way at a time, it may be a short time after 11am that assistance reaches you if those travelling the other direction are going first.
30 Mar 26 12:00:02

30145Pocklington Canal (Navigable Section)Cottingwith Lock No 1Cottingwith Lock No 106 February 202613 March 2027Pocklington Canal – Booking Passage
To help us care for the Pocklington Canal and manage water levels throughout the year, we're introducing a booked passage system.
If you're planning a journey along the canal, we'd love to help — just let us know at least 48 hours in advance so we can make the necessary arrangements.
Passages are available Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 15:00.
To book your passage, please give us a call on 03030 404040 and our team will be happy to assist.
13 Mar 26 19:14:20

30122Trent and Mersey Canal (Main Line - Etruria to Hardings Wood)Harecastle Tunnel (northern entrance)Harecastle Tunnel (southern entrance)01 March 202631 October 2026Following feedback on our original operating proposal, the Trust have revised the booking arrangements for Harecastle Tunnel.

From 1 April 2026, passages will operate as follows:

* Bookable passages at 8am (Southbound) and 9am (Northbound)
* Open, non bookable window from 10am to 2pm
* Bookable passages at 2pm (Southbound) and 3pm (Northbound)

The open window allows boats to arrive and pass through without a booking, subject to capacity and safe operation on the day. Each passage can accommodate up to eight boats.

While these times provide a clear structure, the tunnel team will remain flexible wherever possible. Staff and volunteers will use their judgement on the day to make best use of available capacity, including accommodating unbooked boats, using unused booking slots, or allowing early arrivals to join an earlier passage where it is safe to do so.

Changes to bookings should be made by 5pm on the day before your planned passage wherever possible. Where late changes cannot be made online, the team will try to accommodate them on the day, although this cannot be guaranteed.

Please pre-book online here: < >. For any other enquiries, please contact us on 0303 0404040. For direct tunnel enquiries please email eventsnorthstaffs@canalrivertrust.org.uk.
27 Mar 26 11:00:04

30632Leeds and Liverpool Canal (Main Line - Wigan to Leeds)Five Rise Locks Swing Bridge No 200Kirkstall Forge Staircase Locks Nos 8 to 1031 March 202625 March 2027As we move into Summer operating hours on the Leeds & Liverpool canal from Tuesday 31st March operating times on the following lock flights will be implemented.
Bingley 5 & 3 Rise locks.
Morning

* Passages down the lock flight: 08:00 – 10:00 (last entry at 09:00)
* Passages up the lock flight: 10:00 – 12:00 (last entry at 11:00)

Afternoon

* Passages down the lock flight: 13:00 – 15:00 (last entry at 14:00)
* Passages up the lock flight: 15:00 – 17:00 (last entry at 16:00)

Bank Newton and Gargrave locks
Will be available for self-operation between the hours of 08:00 and 16:00 daily. However, there will be roving lock keepers to offer assistance through the locks if required.

Newlay, Forge & Kirkstall Locks
Will be available for self-operation between the hours of 08:00 and 16:00 daily. However, there will be roving lock keepers between Leeds & Newlay to offer assistance through the locks if required.
 
What you can do to help?
Your cooperation during this time is essential and deeply appreciated. Here are some things you can do to help reduce strain on the system:

* Share locks where possible and make the best use of the water available.
* Make sure paddles are fully closed once you've passed through a lock.
* Aim for minimal contact when navigating through locks by ensuring gates are fully open as you pass through.
* Pushing gates open using a boat can damage the gate lining, increasing its leakage.
* If you spot a leak or any suspicious activities please call us on 0303 040 4040 or emailing via [contact-us](

 
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to manage the canal sustainably.
Contact us | Canal & River Trust
Read our FAQs to find the answers you need. You can also write to us, or get in touch via phone, email or live chat.
 
Read our FAQs to find the answers you need. You can also write to us, or get in touch via phone, email or live chat.
 
25 Mar 26 21:59:56

30731Aire and Calder Navigation (Main Line - Castleford to Leeds)Fishpond Lock No 4Fishpond Lock No 403 April 202606 April 2026Please could boaters be aware that Fishpond Lock will be assisted passage only over the Easter Bank Holiday, from Friday, 3rd April until Monday, 6th April.

Passage will be available between the hours of 10am and 2pm each day.
02 Apr 26 18:38:02