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Calder and Hebble Canal - Navigation, South Yorkshire, England, UK

Calder & Hebble Navigation

The Calder and Hebble seems to be an ever-changing waterway - part river in places, part canal in others, this South Yorkshire waterway boasts unusual locks and a collection of 18th Century warehouses that some would call exceptional. The waterway relies almost exclusively on the River Calder for its water.

The Calder & Hebble runs for 21 predominantly rural miles from Sowerby Bridge down to Wakefield. A charming waterway in itself and also a vital historic connection between the the Pennine canals of Huddersfield and Rochdale with the Yorkshire waterways. The waterway has undergone a remarkable renaissance in recent years, transforming it from a polluted commercial waterway to an attractive pleasure cruising navigation route.

Though the waterway once served a busy industrial area, its route is surprisingly untroubled by modern-day life, 'Bob the Gas' - Robert Boothroyd tells us that a cruise along the Calder & Hebble is a relaxing experience. The small towns of Sowerby Bridge and Brighouse are full of local interest and colour.

The Navigation Authority is British Waterways (01977 554351)

Sowerby Bridge to Broadcut Top Lock passage for craft up to 57' 6" length; 14' 2" beam; 4' 3" draught; 9' 6" headroom.

Broadcut Bottom Lock to Wakefield passage for craft up to 120' length; 14' 2" beam; 4' 3" draught; 12' headroom.