The C2C Route
The coast to coast route is made up of a series of eighteen trails. It’s designed to be travelled west to east, across the country; the recommended direction of travel considering prevailing wind direction and river flows. This is the fifteenth in a series of eighteen individual trails, which combine to create a coast to coast route for paddlers. Travel into the heart of Leeds industrial history as you enter Leeds Docks.
The trails combine the Leeds Liverpool Canal and Aire and Calder Navigations to create a route stretching 162 miles across the north of England. Passing through villages, towns and cities that played a major part in the industrial revolution and textile industries, as well as enjoying the stunning scenery as you travel over the Pennines in Lancashire and Yorkshire.
The Leeds Liverpool Canal and Aire and Calder Navigation offer different paddling experiences. The Leeds Liverpool wanders gently, connecting its two two major namesake cities. It recently celebrated its bicentenary and is enjoyed by boaters and paddlers alike.
The Aire and Calder is a commercial waterway, transporting goods and materials between the town of Goole and the city of Leeds. The navigation brings its own challenges, combining canalised navigation and river sections with large locks and high walls.
PLEASE NOTE: It’s recommended that only more experienced paddlers or groups of paddlers with experienced coaches or leaders paddle on the river sections of the Aire and Calder Navigation.
Kirkstall Abbey is a Cistercian monastery, founded in 1152. Its ruins are incredibly well preserved and there is an interactive visitor centre where you can learn all about its history and amazing architecture.
Travelling by boat on a canal means you are already following the industrial heritage of Leeds. So, why not stop off at the Leeds Industrial Museum on your journey? The museum is housed in what was once the world’s largest woollen mill. Step back in time to learn about the industrial history of Leeds, from manufacturing textiles and clothing to printing, engineering and locomotives.
Leeds Docks is home to a variety of cafes and restaurants, as well as hosting regular open water swimming and is the location for the filming of Steph’s Packed Lunch. The Royal Armouries Museum is home to the UK’s national collection of arms and armour and is free to visit. Explore five galleries with over 4,500 objects on display and discover how arms and armour have shaped history, art and culture through the ages. Experience live combat demonstrations taking place every day and learn how historic armour and weapons were used.
