Manchester might be best known for its lively music scene, football clubs, or industrial heritage, but the city’s waterways offer a quieter, unique way to explore its rich past and stunning surroundings. Whether you’re interested in cruising past the historic landmarks along the River Irwell, or exploring the breathtaking scenery of the Lake District, Manchester’s boat tours provide a relaxed and memorable experience. We’re particularly fond of the Manchester: Canal & River Cruise for its blend of history and city sights, and the Lake District trips for their stunning landscapes and peaceful waters.
In this guide, we’ll look at four of the best boat tours and cruises available from Manchester. These range from urban canal adventures to full-day excursions into the nearby Lake District, each offering a different perspective on this beautiful corner of England. Whether you’re after a quick sightseeing ride or a full-day nature escape, there’s something here for every traveler.
Below, we’ve summarized the types of tours you can choose from. Some focus on city sights, like the scenic cruise along Manchester’s historic canals, while others take you into the natural beauty of Cumbria’s lakes. For a full-day outdoor adventure, consider the Lake District tours, which include boat cruises and visits to charming villages and literary landmarks. Now, let’s explore each of these options in detail.
1. Manchester: Canal & River Cruise
At number 1, the Manchester: Canal & River Cruise is a fantastic way to see the city from a different angle. Priced at just $16 per person for a 1-hour trip, this cruise is a budget-friendly choice packed with interesting sights. The tour takes you along Manchester’s historic Ship Canal and the River Irwell, giving you a glimpse of the city’s industrial past and modern development. The onboard commentary shares stories about landmarks like Stephenson’s Railway Bridge, built in 1830, and the Ordsall Chord, a striking modern railway link that symbolizes Manchester’s ongoing innovation.
One of the highlights is cruising past Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium, affectionately known as the “Theatre of Dreams,” perfect for sports fans. You’ll also see the contemporary Media City complex, home to the BBC and ITV studios, alongside the old railway arches over Hulme Lock. The calm water and friendly narration make this cruise ideal for families, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a relaxing overview of the city’s industrial and modern landscapes.
Guests consistently rate this tour highly—4.4 out of 5 from over 4,400 reviews—highlighting its affordability, scenic views, and interesting commentary. It’s a quick, informative trip that offers good value for its price, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of Manchester from the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick, inexpensive introduction to Manchester’s waterways and history. It’s a great choice for families or those new to the city.
2. From Manchester: Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise
At number 2, the Lake District Bus Tour & Windermere Cruise offers a full-day escape into one of England’s most beloved natural areas. For around $104.16, this 11-hour trip combines a scenic coach journey with a boat cruise on Lake Windermere, the largest natural lake in England. This tour is especially appealing for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxing boat ride.
The journey includes highlights like Coniston Water, which inspired many poets, and charming villages such as Hawkshead, where William Wordsworth attended school. The boat cruise on Windermere provides spectacular views of rolling hills and tranquil waters, making it easy to understand why artists and writers flock to this region. You’ll also stop at Grasmere, famous for Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage, and have time to explore the cobbled streets and local shops.
Guests praise this tour’s well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides—one reviewer said, “The trip was truly amazing,” and appreciated the balance of driving, walking, and cruising. The scenic stops at Tarn Hows offer picture-perfect moments, and the tour’s value is excellent given the full day’s activity.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers and literature fans alike, this tour delivers a scenic, culturally rich experience with a comfortable pace.
3. Manchester: Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise
At number 3, the Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise provides a comprehensive day exploring Cumbria’s scenic landscape. For about 10 hours, this trip combines a coach tour with a peaceful lake cruise on Windermere, plus visits to picturesque villages and spots like Tarn Hows and Hawkshead. This tour is perfect if you want a balance of land and water exploration, with plenty of photo opportunities.
The itinerary includes a 40-minute boat cruise, giving you a relaxing break from the busy sightseeing. You’ll stop at Tarn Hows for beautiful photos, then head to Hawkshead for a walk through the historic streets. The coach journey is designed to showcase the spectacular landscapes of the Lake District, with scenic drives along winding roads and lakeside views.
Although the tour is slightly longer than others, reviews note the smooth organization, and the inclusion of free time gives you flexibility. It’s a good fit for travelers looking to see the Lake District in a single day without sacrificing scenery or comfort.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a balanced day of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing on the water, with enough time to soak in the views.
4. Lake District Tour and Windermere Cruise from Manchester
Finally, the Lake District Tour and Windermere Cruise from Manchester offers a full 11-hour day exploring the lakes and villages of Cumbria. Priced at $170 per person, it’s the most comprehensive option on this list, perfect for travelers seeking a deeper experience. This tour features a scenic boat cruise on Lake Windermere, coupled with visits to literary landmarks like Wordsworth’s Dove Cottage in Grasmere.
Guests will enjoy a scenic drive through the Lake District, with stops at Coniston Water and Hawkshead, plus ample time to wander and take photos. The boat cruise on Windermere is a highlight, providing peaceful views of the surrounding hills and waters. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the region’s natural beauty and literary connections.
While this tour is more expensive, reviews mention its “outstanding experience” and the opportunity to see some of the best scenery and quaint villages in the area. It’s best suited for travelers eager to spend a full day immersed in the Lake District’s natural and cultural charm.
Bottom Line: For those who want a deeper, more leisurely exploration of the lakes and villages, this tour offers excellent value, especially for literature and scenery enthusiasts.
How to Choose Your Perfect Water Adventure in Manchester
Choosing between these options depends largely on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re looking for a quick, affordable way to see Manchester from the water, the Canal & River Cruise is ideal. It’s perfect for families or first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of the city’s past and present. More interested in scenery and outdoor activities? The Lake District tours provide stunning landscapes, with options for full-day adventures or more relaxed half-day experiences. If you want to combine city sights with lakeside beauty, the Lake District Tour with Lake Cruise balances both.
Consider how much time you want to spend traveling—the city cruise is just an hour, while the full-day Lake District trips allow for more immersive experiences. For those on a budget, the Canal & River Cruise offers great value, but for scenic landscapes and literary connections, the more comprehensive Lake District tours deliver rich experiences.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like spring and summer, when these tours fill up fast. Check availability in advance and consider combining a boat tour with other outdoor activities or cultural visits for a well-rounded trip.
Final Thoughts
Manchester offers a surprising variety of water-based experiences that suit many interests. For a quick city overview, the Manchester: Canal & River Cruise delivers history and views at an unbeatable price. If you’re after scenic lakes and charming villages, the Lake District tours provide peaceful waters and inspiring landscapes, with options tailored to different schedules and budgets.
Travelers who love literature, nature, or simply want a relaxing day away from the city will find these tours rewarding. Remember, booking early helps secure your spot on popular trips. Whether you’re exploring Manchester’s urban waterways or drifting along the tranquil lakes of Cumbria, these boat tours make a memorable addition to your trip—so don’t miss out!