Dining On The Leeds & Liverpool Canal

For a dining experience with a difference, how about a cruise through the Lancashire countryside? ‘MV Romance’ is a purpose-built restaurant boat based at Riley Green Marina, near Hoghton (famously where James I knighted his loin of beef Sirloin). It takes individual diners and pre-booked groups and has a licensed bar with lunch cruises departing at 12 noon and evening cruises at 7pm or 7.30pm.

It’s a great way to watch the scenery glide by and the route passes Withnell Fold Nature Reserve, the old paper mill, Hoghton Tower and the lovely hamlet of Wheelton and the Johnson Hillock locks before returning. The restaurant boat can seat up to 39 diners and is disabled-friendly. Best seat is a a table for 10 right in the bow. Three-course seasonal menus based on local produce are just £39 including the cruise and a typical lunch menu features regional Lancashire cuisine such as homemade leek and potato soup, locally reared sirloin of beef with Yorkshire pudding, and comforting desserts like Toffee Crunch Pie or farmhouse apple pie.

All types of private function can be catered for including wedding receptions, birthdays, corporate events and Christmas parties. There are also Afternoon Cream Tea cruises and Tapas evenings. Canal Boat Cruises was the Red Rose Tourism & Leisure Business of the Year 2013.