We're inviting you to enjoy Yorkshire’s canals with the arrival of spring sunshine and the Easter holidays

From boat trips and fishing taster days to peaceful nature walks and ‘gongoozling’ – spotting narrow boats on the canal – the charity is encouraging people to make the most of the good weather and discover the wellbeing boost of being by water.

What you can enjoy

Families can enjoy gentle walks along Yorkshire’s canals and try and spot wildlife such as kingfishers, ducks and even otters.

The newly resurfaced towpath along the Huddersfield Narrow Canal is perfect for a spring stroll or pram‑friendly wander. People can walk along the towpath to Standedge Tunnel, where they can hop aboard the Trust’s trip boat for a memorable journey into Britain’s longest, deepest and highest canal tunnel. These short, atmospheric trips are a brilliant way to spark children’s curiosity and experience boating and the canal from a whole new angle.

Meanwhile, a new, free-to-visit labyrinth, made from recycled sawdust from the Trust’s lock gate manufacturing workshop at Stanley Ferry near Wakefield, has been created by volunteers at Naburn Lock, near York. It’s a calm, reflective space where families can slow down, follow the trail, and enjoy the sounds of nature. It’s a lovely spot for children to explore and for adults to take a breather.

There are also a range of family-friendly activities lined up for the spring, including Let’s Fish! free family fishing sessions. Taking place in Selby, Knottingley, and Dewsbury during April and May and in other locations across Yorkshire over the summer months, these free, relaxed sessions are ideal for beginners. Made possible by funding raised by players of People's Postcode Lottery, qualified coaches provide all the equipment and gentle guidance, making it a fun, confidence‑building activity for children trying fishing for the first time.

The perfect time to get outdoors

Sean McGinley, our regional director, said: “Easter is when you begin to see more boats moving about, and it’s the perfect time for families to get outdoors and enjoy Yorkshire’s canals. Whether you’re taking a boat trip into Standedge Tunnel, trying fishing for the first time, or simply enjoying a walk along our newly improved towpaths, we’d love to welcome you to our canals. Spending time by water is a wonderful way to relax, explore and make memories together.”