Book a Trip on Birdswood Canal Boat
Birdswood is the trip boat belonging to the Friends of the Cromford Canal (FCC), and is entirely run by our wonderful team of volunteers.
We offer scheduled trips April-October, and a number of guided Special Interest Trips open to all members of the public. The trips include a commentary about the vessel and the canal. Birdswood is also available for private hire.
Come and enjoy a peaceful journey along the canal, introduced by a booming announcement from the FCC President, Brian Blessed.
Winner – Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025
See this video to give you an idea of what to expect
Regular Trips on Birdswood
Birdswood runs scheduled trips throughout the season, (usually April-October) open to all members of the public. You can purchase a ticket on the day in our Wharf-side Shop, but to avoid disappointment we advise you to pre-book your ticket here.
Special Interest Trips
A normal trip up to the mooring at the Leawood Pumphouse Passengers then disembark with our guide for a short walk taking in the pumphouse, the Wigwell Aqueduct, the Nightingale Arm & the newly restored Aqueduct Cottage.
For precise details of each cruise, click the relevant button below
Birdswood Private Charters
Birdswood is available for private hire throughout the year. The boat can hold up to 40 people. There is no bar but we are able to arrange for catering packages (sandwiches+crisps+cake, or cream teas) or alternatively passengers are welcome to bring their own refreshments.
Groups visiting us could travel by train to Cromford and benefit from discounted group fares. Find out more at the Derwent Valley Line website.
Santa’s Magical Xmas Trips
Wrap up warm and treat the kids to a Christmas trip on the historic narrow boat Birdswood. Running in November and December 2026: weekends 28th & 29th November and 5th & 6th, 12th & 13th and 19th & 20th December: Trips depart at 1100hrs and 1300hrs from Cromford Wharf: this is a one hour round trip.
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