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Wakefield to Sowerby Bridge, the C & H Navigation has many mooring opportunities throughout it's entire course.
At Cooper Bridge, it joins the Huddersfield Narrow Canal which has a maximum boat width of 6 feet 10 in.
There are stretches that are affected by changes in the river levels. Take care when mooring.
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Lock Gates
Tunnel AqueductThe Calder and Hebble Navigation is a scenic and historic waterway in West Yorkshire, England. Stretching 21.5 miles, this navigation combines natural rivers with man-made canals, creating a diverse and captivating journey for canal boat enthusiasts. Whether you're a canal boat holidaymaker, a boat owner, or a live-aboard, the Calder and Hebble Navigation offers something for everyone. With picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and fascinating historical landmarks, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Britain’s waterways.
Top Four Boat User Categories of the Calder and Hebble Navigation
1. Perfect for Canal Boat Holidays
The Calder and Hebble Navigation is ideal for a leisurely canal boat holiday. Its combination of tranquil countryside, bustling towns, and unique locks makes for a varied and engaging experience. It’s also a gateway to other waterways, connecting to the Huddersfield Broad Canal, the Rochdale Canal, and the Aire and Calder Navigation, offering endless cruising opportunities.
2. A Haven for Boat Owners
For boat owners, the navigation provides a rewarding route with its manageable size and mix of river and canal cruising. While some of the locks require the use of a handspike (a traditional wooden tool), this adds an authentic and nostalgic touch to the boating experience.
3. Live-Aboards Find a Home
The Calder and Hebble is a welcoming waterway for live-aboards, with plenty of mooring options and access to nearby amenities. The navigation’s peaceful stretches and proximity to vibrant communities create a balanced lifestyle for those living on the water.
4. Walkers & Nature Lovers
There are many walks and places of interest to attract large numbers who enjoy the scenic views, wildlife and tranquillity along the banks of the Calder and Hebble Navigation.
Places of Interest Along the Navigation
1. Pubs and Restaurants
The Calder and Hebble Navigation boasts a variety of waterside pubs and eateries that cater to boaters:
The Millers Bar (Brighouse): A cosy pub with traditional fare, situated near the canal.
The Navigation Inn (Sowerby Bridge): Known for its selection of ales and hearty meals, this pub is a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
The Calder (Brighouse): A family-friendly spot offering a mix of classic dishes and modern cuisine.
2. Historical Landmarks
The navigation is rich in history, with landmarks that tell the story of its industrial past:
Stanley Ferry Aqueduct: This engineering marvel, built in 1839, is one of the world's oldest aqueducts still in use.
Elland Bridge: A Grade II-listed structure that showcases the craftsmanship of the 18th century.
Brighouse Basin: Once a hub for trade, this area now offers a glimpse into the navigation’s bustling past.
3. Best Mooring Locations
For overnight stops or longer stays, the Calder and Hebble Navigation offers excellent mooring spots:
Sowerby Bridge: This lively town is an ideal base with pubs, restaurants, and a marina.
Mirfield: A quieter location surrounded by picturesque scenery, perfect for unwinding.
Wakefield: A cultural hub with attractions like The Hepworth Wakefield gallery and the Cathedral.
Best Time of Year to Cruise
The Calder and Hebble Navigation is navigable year-round, but the best time to explore it depends on your preferences:
Spring and Summer: The most popular time for cruising, with long days, warm weather, and vibrant greenery along the towpaths.
Autumn: A quieter period when the surrounding countryside transforms into a canvas of golden hues.
Winter: While some sections may see reduced activity, winter cruising offers serene waters and cosy evenings aboard your boat.
Tips for Boaters Navigating the Calder and Hebble
1. Prepare for the Unique Locks
The locks on the Calder and Hebble Navigation are smaller than standard locks, and many require a handspike for operation. Make sure to carry one on board, as it’s an essential tool for this waterway.
2. Embrace the Mixed Waterway Experience
The navigation alternates between canal stretches and river sections, adding variety to your journey. Keep an eye on water levels, especially in the river portions, as they can change with heavy rain.
3. Plan for Amenities
While the navigation passes through several towns with amenities like shops and fuel stations, it’s wise to plan your stops and stock up on essentials before venturing into more rural sections.
Modification for navigation on the River's Calder and Hebble began in 1759. It took eleven years to complete. Branches were added later to connect Halifax via the Salterhebble branch in 1828. Various cuts were added to bypass river sections.
The Calder and Hebble Navigation was a very busy waterway serving the industrial area.
Part River and part canal, this is a broad waterway and is popular with both Narrowbeam and Widebeam alike. Where the river's, in the past, were difficult or impossible to navigate, stretches of canal were added. May shortened the route and bypassed difficult sections. Many locks were added to assist in the rise and fall of the landscape.
Some of these locks are no longer in use today due to later changes. In addition to the 28 Locks, there are 2 'Flood Locks' at South East of Wakefield (Wakefield Flood Lock) and the other at Mirfield near Dewsbury (Flood Lock, Ledgard). These locks are only used to assist with flood waters.
History of the Calder and Hebble Navigation
A canal in West Yorkshire, England, which was constructed in the late 18th century. The canal runs for a distance of 21.5 miles, connecting the towns of Sowerby Bridge, Brighouse and Wakefield.
The Calder and Hebble Navigation was built to transport coal, wool and other goods to the rapidly growing industries of West Yorkshire. The construction of the canal began in 1758 and was completed in 1770, at a cost of approximately £70,000.
The canal was designed by John Smeaton, a renowned civil engineer of the time and included several innovative features, such as the use of locks to raise and lower boats between different levels of the canal.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Calder and Hebble Navigation played an important role in the transport of goods to and from the region's growing industries. The canal was also an important link to other waterways, including the Aire and Calder Navigation and the Huddersfield Narrow Canal, which allowed goods to be transported to other parts of the country.
However, by the mid-20th century, the canal had fallen into disuse and disrepair. The growth of road and rail transport had made canal transport less efficient and cost-effective, and many sections of the canal were closed or abandoned.
In the 1960's a group of local enthusiasts formed the Calder Navigation Society to campaign for the restoration of the canal. Their efforts paid off, and a major restoration project began in the 1970's which included the rebuilding of several locks and the construction of new bridges and culverts.
Today, the Calder and Hebble Navigation is a popular destination for boaters, walkers, and cyclists. The canal is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including otters, water voles and kingfishers.
The restoration of the Calder and Hebble Navigation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local community, who recognised the value of preserving this important piece of the region's industrial heritage. The canal is now a valuable asset to the local economy, attracting visitors from all over the country and helping to support the region's tourism industry.
Conclusion
The Calder and Hebble Navigation offers a unique and fulfilling experience for canal boaters, live-aboards, and tourists alike. With its mix of history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities, it’s no wonder this waterway remains a favourite among Britain’s canal enthusiasts. Whether you’re enjoying a short break or embarking on an extended adventure, the Calder and Hebble Navigation promises memories that will last a lifetime.
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