Glasson Basin

An evocative site boasting boats of all shapes and sizes, Glasson Basin is a charming place to wander around with plenty of local facilities.

The Glasson Branch was not opened until 1862. Descending to the port of Glasson Basin by six locks, this connection to the sea was for many years the Lancaster Canal's only link to the outside world.

The twelve-acre basin, however, was already established as a thriving port. Opened in 1787, it can accommodate up to 200 sea-going vessels. Grain and timber were historically the main imports, and coal to Ireland the main export.

The opening of Preston Dock in 1892 brought an end to Glasson's period of greatness, and the town settled down to become the quiet place it is today.

There are very pleasant walks around the area. From Glasson, the old railway track to Lancaster has been converted to a footpath, while the remains of Cockerham Abbey are a few miles to the south.

What's nearby

Glasson Dock is well supplied with pubs, shops and other facilities, including a village store and Post Office.

At the dock and marina, you can take a bite to eat at the Lock-Keeper's Rest snack bar or in the Lantern O'er The Lune cafe, which specialises in fresh fish and real chips.

The Dalton Arms is the local pub, or if you fancy preparing a picnic, pay a visit to the Port of Lancaster Smokehouse on West Quay and the Conder Green Farm Shop. Accommodation is available in the Stork Hotel at Conder Green.

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