A Canal Adventure with a Legendary Twist: Skipton to Foulridge and the Tale of Buttercup the Cow

For a unique narrowboat holiday with a fun tale at its heart, cruise along one of the most iconic stretches of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. This 7-night roundtrip from Skipton takes you through breathtaking countryside in Yorkshire and Lancashire, cruising through picturesque woodlands, and passing charming villages. Along the way, you’ll not only enjoy spectacular views but also follow the hooves of Buttercup the Cow and her remarkable adventure through Foulridge Tunnel.

The Tale of Buttercup the Cow

Many a seasoned narrowboater will have heard the tale of Buttercup, the cow who pulled off an astonishing stunt back in 1912.

In September 1912, Buttercup, a cow owned by Robin Brown of Blue Slate Farm in Colne, pulled off a daring stunt. She slipped down a bank and waded into Foulridge Tunnel—a dark, 1,640-yard stretch beneath the hills of Pendle, Lancashire. Against all odds, Buttercup swam the full length of the tunnel, from Barrowford to Foulridge Wharf, braving murky waters and oppressive darkness.

After her heroic swim, legend says that she was revived with a generous swig of brandy from the former Hole In The Wall pub—a fitting end to her daring adventure. Several pictures of Buttercup hung in the pub until its closure. Today, her story remains a symbol of determination and perseverance. It reminds us that, no matter the obstacles, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel. Sometimes, a little support (and maybe a drop of brandy!) can get you through.

As you pass through Foulridge Tunnel on your narrowboat holiday, you’ll be able to reflect on Buttercup’s bravery and find inspiration in her story. Today, the tunnel is open to canoeists who travel from all over the world looking to tick off one of their bucket list paddles.

The Journey Begins: Skipton to Foulridge

Start your holiday at Blue Otter Boats in Skipton, a market town known for its well-preserved Skipton Castle. As you cruise west, you’ll quickly find the soothing rhythm of narrowboating. The route takes you through serene woodlands and lush green landscapes. Stop along the way at popular overnight moorings, including Gargrave, East Marton (perfect for tea and cake at Abbots Harbour), Barnoldswick, and The Angel Pub at Salterforth. The canal offers a slow pace, ideal for first-time narrowboaters seeking a relaxing exploration.

Foulridge and the Historic Tunnel

Foulridge Tunnel is a must-see for any narrowboater. The passage through is controlled by traffic lights on both ends. As you pass through, you’ll experience the eerie quiet and cool, damp air that surrounded Buttercup during her legendary swim. Imagine her determination as she swam the full length of the tunnel over 100 years ago, and let her story inspire you as you navigate this iconic stretch of the canal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can cruise through the 1,640-yard tunnel before reaching the winding hole at Foulridge. After passing through, turn your boat around and begin your return journey to Skipton, taking in the stunning views of the countryside along the way.

A Canal Adventure to Remember

This 7-night holiday from Skipton to Foulridge and back is perfect for those seeking a blend of peaceful cruising, historic landmarks, and a dash of quirky local history. Whether you’re a first-time narrowboater or an experienced adventurer, this canal journey promises a memorable experience of a narrowboat holiday in Yorkshire filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and the unique charm of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal. Book your journey with Blue Otter Boats today, and who knows—you may even feel inspired by Buttercup’s legendary adventure as you cruise through the very same tunnel she once swam!

Book your holiday with our trusted agent, Hoseasons.