White Cross Canal Basin
Historic canalside pub offering real ales and hearty grub in a 19th-century warehouse with a charming tow-path terrace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
White Cross Canal Basin
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic canalside pub offering real ales and hearty grub in a 19th-century warehouse with a charming tow-path terrace.
"Fantastic pub in a great location by the canal, with the best selection of beers in Lancaster."
🚶♀️ Scenic Canal Walks
Start your walk from near White Cross Street along the canal for a refreshing experience.
🍺 Try Before You Buy
Staff are happy to let you sample ales before committing to a pint.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canalside Terrace
Tow-path
Sip on real ales and enjoy pub fare with stunning views of the canal. A perfect spot to relax and soak in the atmosphere.
Real Ale Selection
Bar
Discover an impressive array of locally sourced real ales, with knowledgeable staff ready to help you find your perfect pint.
Hearty Pub Grub
Dining Area
Indulge in a diverse menu featuring classics like fish and chips, steak sandwiches, and delicious roasted dishes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Canalside Charm
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Scenic Canal Walks
Start your walk from near White Cross Street along the canal for a refreshing experience.
🍺 Try Before You Buy
Staff are happy to let you sample ales before committing to a pint.
🍽️ Diverse Menu Options
From classic fish and chips to vegetarian delights, there's something for everyone.
✨ Attentive Service
Expect friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance your dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Scenic Canal Walks
Start your walk from near White Cross Street along the canal for a refreshing experience.
🍺 Try Before You Buy
Staff are happy to let you sample ales before committing to a pint.
🍽️ Diverse Menu Options
From classic fish and chips to vegetarian delights, there's something for everyone.
✨ Attentive Service
Expect friendly and knowledgeable staff who enhance your dining experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the White Cross Canal Basin's fantastic canalside location and exceptional real ale selection, often calling it the best in Lancaster. The friendly service and good pub grub are also frequently praised, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Some minor points of improvement were noted regarding toilet cleanliness.
"Fantastic pub in a great location by the canal. Never gets uncomfortably busy, but is seldomly quiet. Best selection of beers in Lancaster (and probably beyond). Service always top notch, always an offer to try a beer before purchase."
Andy Fisher
"We came for a lunch, meeting friends 1/2 way on a Saturday. The dining area wasn’t busy at all, and our server was fantastic. We had a lovely, relaxed lunch.
A wide variety of food selections. Fish and chips, steak sandwich, super salad, curry and more. The seitan was probably the one thing that was a let down.
The toilets could be a bit cleaner and better lit.
Overall a good time, decent food, great service, and really good prices!"
Richard MacLaren
"Stopped off on a canalside walk and greeted by a vast array of ales, great menu and friendly service. Food was excellent and served fairly promptly. Staff all very attentive."
Conrad H
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The White Cross Canal Basin is easily accessible by foot, bike, or car. It's located along the canal tow-path, making it a popular stop for those enjoying a walk or cycle. Parking is available nearby.
Absolutely! The canal tow-path offers a scenic route for cyclists. You can cycle from White Cross towards Haverbreaks and beyond, enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Yes, you can walk or cycle from Lancaster city center along the canal. It's a pleasant route that connects the city to the basin.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, White Cross Canal Basin is a public area and a pub, so no tickets are required to visit the basin itself. You only pay for food and drinks if you choose to dine or drink there.
The pub generally operates with standard pub hours, typically opening for lunch and serving through the evening. It's best to check their specific hours for the day you plan to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy a relaxing time by the canal, savoring real ales and pub food on the tow-path terrace. It's a great spot for a leisurely break during a walk or cycle.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, pubs with outdoor seating areas like the tow-path terrace are often dog-friendly. It's advisable to confirm directly with the establishment.
Expect a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, especially on the canalside terrace. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a pleasant escape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The menu offers a variety of pub classics, including fish and chips, steak sandwiches, salads, and curries. Vegetarian options like roasted aubergine are also available.
Yes, the menu includes options like roasted aubergine, and other dishes can often be adapted. It's recommended to inquire about vegan choices when ordering.
Prices are considered good for the quality and location, with main dishes and drinks for two people costing around £56 in one instance.
Reviews generally praise the food as delicious and well-prepared, with particular highlights being roasted dishes and classic pub fare.
📸 📸 Photography
The canalside terrace offers picturesque views, especially during golden hour. Capture the reflections on the water and the charming warehouse architecture.
Yes, the canal and its surroundings are beautiful for photography. You can capture the boats, the water, and the natural scenery along the tow-path.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🚶♀️ Walkers and Cyclists
Consider planning your route to include the canal. For example, you could start from the city center and cycle along the canal, or use it as a break point during a longer excursion towards areas like Haverbreaks. The availability of real ales and good food makes it a rewarding destination after some exercise.
🍻 Beer Connoisseurs
Beyond the ales, the pub offers a welcoming environment to enjoy your drinks. Whether you're sitting on the canalside terrace or inside the historic warehouse, you'll find a relaxed atmosphere conducive to savoring your beverages. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the quality of the drinks and the friendly service.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Canalside
Many visitors enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the canalside, using it as a place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty. The pub's tow-path terrace provides an ideal vantage point to soak in the views, especially during pleasant weather. It's a spot where you can truly appreciate the slower pace of life by the water.
For those interested in a more active experience, the canal offers opportunities for paddleboard yoga, with events sometimes hosted in similar canal locations, showcasing the versatility of these waterside spaces.
+2A Haven for Ale Enthusiasts
Beyond the ales, the pub also serves a variety of other drinks, including Guinness, which has been specifically mentioned as enjoyable by patrons.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit