FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Click on the icons below to the find answers to you questions. If your question is not answered below, please contact us.
Canalathon FAQ
Will there be food and drink available?
Answer
As this is a small scale charitable event we won’t be providing food. Food is available at The Crooklands Hotel opposite the event field. Water will be available in the event field and at the end of the paddle board section – please bring your water bottles to refill and own food to refuel!
Canalathon FAQ
Will I get a medal for taking part?
Answer
We have decided to give seed bombs to every participant instead of a medal as this is more in line with our ethos of encouraging biodiversity on the Towpath Trail and not creating unnecessary waste.
Canalathon FAQ
Where do I go when I've finished cycling?
Answer
You can return to the event field either by walking with your bike or cycling – please take care to enter the event field as cars may be leaving the car park at the same time.
Canalathon FAQ
If I decide not to come along, can I get a refund?
Answer
Unfortunately due to the charitable nature of this event, we can’t afford the admin time to process refunds. You can transfer your registered spot to another person. You must let us know in advance of the event so we have the correct next of kin and participant information.
Canalathon FAQ
What will my entry fee goes towards?
Answer
All entry fees go to the Lancaster Canal Regeneration Partnership CIC to help create an accessible ‘Towpath Trail’ from Kendal to Lancaster. As a community interest company event fees can only be used for this purpose. If you agree that creating more accessible green space is a good thing – join us!
Canalathon FAQ
Are there toilets?
Answer
Yes there are portable toilets in the event field and at the paddle board storage area.
Canalathon FAQ
Do I have to enter at my own risk?
Answer
Yes. Every participant will be asked to sign a waiver that declares they have decided to enter this event at their own risk and cannot hold the event organisers liable for any damage or incidents that may occur.
Canalathon FAQ
Will there be 1st aid at the event?
Answer
Yes. The event is supported by Kentdale First Aid who will be providing two vehicles to ensure the safety needs of participants are covered.
Canalathon FAQ
What happens if my bike breaks down on the route?
Answer
Our Canalathon bike mechanic will be on hand to help with any repairs / breakdowns.
Canalathon FAQ
How do I access the bike mechanic?
Answer
The Canalathon bike mechanic will be in the event field the day before the event (Friday 30th August) from 11-2pm, pop in to get your bike checked over.
Canalathon FAQ
Is the event timed?
Answer
No. This is a fun, laid back challenge event rather than a race. You are welcome to time yourself as we are planning to repeat the event next year so you can compare your time!
Canalathon FAQ
Does everyone have to cycle 10K?
Answer
No participants can choose to cycle 5k or 10k by completing the loop route once or twice – its your choice!
Canalathon FAQ
Why can't under 18's paddle board?
Answer
The eventโs insurance and permission conditions mean that we cannot allow under 18’s to take part in the paddle board section.
Canalathon FAQ
I'm responsible for an under 18's joining me for the cycling and running, where do I meet them?
Answer
If supervised, the under 18 who is joining you can cheer you on whilst you paddle by walking alongside on the Towpath and then run with you once you’ve completed the paddle section. OR they can meet you at the running start point but will need to be supervised whilst waiting for you.
Canalathon FAQ
Is the cycling route signposted?
Answer
Yes the cycling route is signposted.
Canalathon FAQ
Is the running route sign posted?
Answer
The running route isn’t signposted but it will be obvious where to go thanks to our volunteers! The running route is the paddle route in reverse and is along the towpath so there’s no possibility of getting lost! Our dedicated volunteers will show you when to leave the towpath to collect your bike.
Canalathon FAQ
What should I wear?
Answer
We recommend wearing comfortable active clothing and the same footwear throughout the event but understand that some participants might not want to risk the possibility of running and cycling in wet trainers! One solution is to paddle board in flip flops/wet shoes and put your trainers in a dry bag attached to the paddle board.
Helmets are compulsory to cycle in the Canalathon. Cyclists without a helmet will not be allowed to take part. You’re welcome to wear a helmet for paddle boarding but this is not compulsory due to the gentle nature of the event, instruction about paddling safely under the bridges will be provided.
You are welcome to wear a life jacket but its not compulsory because your paddle board, when leashed to you, acts as a buoyancy aid. Our Paddleboard safety coordinator will demonstrate in the safety briefing how to use your paddle board as a buoyancy aid should you need to.
Canalathon FAQ
How will you make sure my paddle board doesn't get mixed up with other participants?
Answer
When you register you will be given a sticker for your paddle board. The sticker will correspond with your participant number so when you collect your board from the event field at the end of the event the event staff can cross check your number with the paddle board number.
Canalathon FAQ
Where will I pick up my board?
Answer
Your board will be returned to the event field and stored in wave bays near the entrance so all you need to do is find your wave number and ask the event staff to help you find your board. They will be stored inflated and upright.
Canalathon FAQ
What happens to my paddle board after the paddling section?
Answer
When you finish the paddle board section you will be supported to leave the canal and asked to carry your board to the paddle board storage area where a trailer will safely transport your board and paddle back to the event field on your behalf.
Canalathon FAQ
Where can I park?
Answer
Parking is provided for free on the event field, please see map.
Canalathon FAQ
Will my bike be secure?
Answer
Our dedicated bike Safety Co-ordinator will be looking after the bike storage area to ensure they are safe and secure. You can lock your bike to the barriers provided if you wish.
Canalathon FAQ
How will I know where to put my bike?
Answer
Each wave will have a dedicated ‘wave bay’ to store their bikes. Just look for your wave number and pop your bike into the correct bay so it’s easy to find after you’ve completed the paddling and running sections of the event.
Canalathon FAQ
Can I drop my bike off before registering?
Answer
Our preference is that participants register before dropping their bikes off so we can ensure the bike is placed in the correct wave bay to help create a smooth transition from the running section.
Canalathon FAQ
Cycling is not the first stage of the Canalathon, so where do I take my bike?
Answer
Each participant must take their bike to the dedicated and secure bike area within Westmorland Showground before starting the paddle boarding section. The bike area is accessible by car but we recommend cycling there and walking back to the event field.
Canalathon FAQ
When do I need to register?
Answer
We recommend participants register an hour before their Wave start time. This will provide enough time to take bikes to the bike area within Westmorland Show Ground and return to the event field to get your paddle board ready. See map for distances and the routes.
Canalathon FAQ
Where do I register on the day?
Answer
All participants must register before starting the event at the gazebo on the event field (opposite Crooklands Hotel). Please bring your Eventbrite ticket so we can cross reference your next of kin info and provide you with your event number (which must remain visible throughout the event) and paddle board sticker.
Canalathon FAQ
Where will my wave start from?
Answer
Each Wave group will start from the same place – the event field opposite Crooklands Hotel. After registering, look for the large feather flag and Stef the paddleboard co-ordinator who will brief and then set each wave off!
Canalathon FAQ
What is a 'Wave' and how do I know which wave to enter?
Answer
The Crooklands Canalathon ‘Waves’ are groups of 20 participants who have an allocated time to start the Canalathon. Each wave starts paddle boarding together from the event field. You can choose whichever wave suits your schedule, preference or group booking.
Canalathon FAQ
Can I complete the Canalathon in a different order?
Answer
No. All participants must complete the Crooklands Canalathon in the event order (paddle board, run, cycle). It has been designed this way to prevent collisions on the canal which is too narrow to have paddle boards pass each other or set off in larger groups than 20.
Canalathon FAQ
What is the order of the Crooklands Canalathon?
Answer
Each participant will start the event in their pre-arranged ‘Wave’ of 19 other participants (20 in total) by paddle boarding, then running, then cycling.
Is it a busy place to walk?
Answer
Some areas of the Towpath Trial are busier than others, the areas near large towns or cities tend to be busier that the northern rural section.
How do I follow the recommended walks?
Answer
You can download a PDF version of the walks by pressing the download button highlighted for each walk. Alternatively if you have an account with either All Trails or OS Maps, follow the link to find the walk in your app. Weโve made each walk public on these apps to enable you to use the sat nav function built into your phone.
How many walking routes are there on the Towpath Trail?
Answer
There are multiple places to walk on the Towpath Trail. Weโve highlighted ten loop walks that feature the Towpath Trail and the stunning surrounding countryside. Go to this page to download routes and read more.
How can I help to look after the Towpath Trail?
Answer
Weโve created links to lots of handy tips such as the Countryside Codeย to help you contribute to the preservation of the wildlife on the Towpath Trail.
LinkIs the Towpath Trail biodiverse?
Which bus takes you to the Towpath Trail?
Answer
As above it depends on which part of the Towpath Trail you want to access. See the Access page for more info
LinkWhich train takes you to the Towpath Trail?
Answer
This depends on which area of the Towpath Trail you want to start and finish at. Check out the walks and cycle routes which include train information.
Where is the Towpath Trail car park?
Is the Towpath Trail suitable for wheelchair users?
Answer
We are working towards making the entire trail wheelchair accessible but currently only short sections of it are, follow this link to find our more.
LinkCan I take my kids on a bike on the Towpath Trail?
Answer
Yes we welcome children on the towpath trail, its a great place to learn to ride a bike without the worry of traffic. Check out the Ride it page for recommendations.
Are there stiles on the Towpath Trail?
Can I take my bike on the train and return along the towpath trail by cycling it?
Answer
Yes, follow our route guides to find the best route for you. You will need to reserve your bike if travelling from Lancaster to Kendal but from Kendal to Lancaster you don’t need to reserve.
LinkCan I cycle the length of the towpath trail?
How do I avoid canal boats when paddling?
Answer
Follow the Paddler Code and/or stick to the quieter northern section where there is less boating โtrafficโ – link to northern paddler route.
LinkDo I need to wear a helmet when paddling?
Answer
Its a personal choice, the canal is shallow and narrow in places so we would recommend wearing a helmet to be extra careful.
Does check, clean and dry apply when paddling the Towpath Trail?
Answer
Yes, youโll need to ensure your checked, cleaned and dried your board or board before paddling on the Towpath Trail to help reduce the spread of invasive species.
WALK IT
Is it a busy place to walk?
Answer
Some areas of the Towpath Trial are busier than others, the areas near large towns or cities tend to be busier that the northern rural section.
How do I follow the recommended walks?
Answer
You can download a PDF version of the walks by pressing the download button highlighted for each walk. Alternatively if you have an account with either All Trails or OS Maps, follow the link to find the walk in your app. Weโve made each walk public on these apps to enable you to use the sat nav function built into your phone.
How many walking routes are there on the Towpath Trail?
Answer
There are multiple places to walk on the Towpath Trail. Weโve highlighted ten loop walks that feature the Towpath Trail and the stunning surrounding countryside. Go to this page to download routes and read more.
PADDLE IT
How do I avoid canal boats when paddling?
Answer
Follow the Paddler Code and/or stick to the quieter northern section where there is less boating โtrafficโ – link to northern paddler route.
LinkDo I need to wear a helmet when paddling?
Answer
Its a personal choice, the canal is shallow and narrow in places so we would recommend wearing a helmet to be extra careful.
Does check, clean and dry apply when paddling the Towpath Trail?
Answer
Yes, youโll need to ensure your checked, cleaned and dried your board or board before paddling on the Towpath Trail to help reduce the spread of invasive species.
RIDE IT
Can I take my kids on a bike on the Towpath Trail?
Answer
Yes we welcome children on the towpath trail, its a great place to learn to ride a bike without the worry of traffic. Check out the Ride it page for recommendations.
Are there stiles on the Towpath Trail?
Can I take my bike on the train and return along the towpath trail by cycling it?
Answer
Yes, follow our route guides to find the best route for you. You will need to reserve your bike if travelling from Lancaster to Kendal but from Kendal to Lancaster you don’t need to reserve.
LinkENJOY IT
Will there be food and drink available?
Answer
As this is a small scale charitable event we won’t be providing food. Food is available at The Crooklands Hotel opposite the event field. Water will be available in the event field and at the end of the paddle board section – please bring your water bottles to refill and own food to refuel!
Will I get a medal for taking part?
Answer
We have decided to give seed bombs to every participant instead of a medal as this is more in line with our ethos of encouraging biodiversity on the Towpath Trail and not creating unnecessary waste.
Where do I go when I've finished cycling?
Answer
You can return to the event field either by walking with your bike or cycling – please take care to enter the event field as cars may be leaving the car park at the same time.
If I decide not to come along, can I get a refund?
Answer
Unfortunately due to the charitable nature of this event, we can’t afford the admin time to process refunds. You can transfer your registered spot to another person. You must let us know in advance of the event so we have the correct next of kin and participant information.
What will my entry fee goes towards?
Answer
All entry fees go to the Lancaster Canal Regeneration Partnership CIC to help create an accessible ‘Towpath Trail’ from Kendal to Lancaster. As a community interest company event fees can only be used for this purpose. If you agree that creating more accessible green space is a good thing – join us!
Are there toilets?
Answer
Yes there are portable toilets in the event field and at the paddle board storage area.
Do I have to enter at my own risk?
Answer
Yes. Every participant will be asked to sign a waiver that declares they have decided to enter this event at their own risk and cannot hold the event organisers liable for any damage or incidents that may occur.
Will there be 1st aid at the event?
Answer
Yes. The event is supported by Kentdale First Aid who will be providing two vehicles to ensure the safety needs of participants are covered.
What happens if my bike breaks down on the route?
Answer
Our Canalathon bike mechanic will be on hand to help with any repairs / breakdowns.
How do I access the bike mechanic?
Answer
The Canalathon bike mechanic will be in the event field the day before the event (Friday 30th August) from 11-2pm, pop in to get your bike checked over.
Is the event timed?
Answer
No. This is a fun, laid back challenge event rather than a race. You are welcome to time yourself as we are planning to repeat the event next year so you can compare your time!
Does everyone have to cycle 10K?
Answer
No participants can choose to cycle 5k or 10k by completing the loop route once or twice – its your choice!
Why can't under 18's paddle board?
Answer
The eventโs insurance and permission conditions mean that we cannot allow under 18’s to take part in the paddle board section.
I'm responsible for an under 18's joining me for the cycling and running, where do I meet them?
Answer
If supervised, the under 18 who is joining you can cheer you on whilst you paddle by walking alongside on the Towpath and then run with you once you’ve completed the paddle section. OR they can meet you at the running start point but will need to be supervised whilst waiting for you.
Is the cycling route signposted?
Answer
Yes the cycling route is signposted.
Is the running route sign posted?
Answer
The running route isn’t signposted but it will be obvious where to go thanks to our volunteers! The running route is the paddle route in reverse and is along the towpath so there’s no possibility of getting lost! Our dedicated volunteers will show you when to leave the towpath to collect your bike.
What should I wear?
Answer
We recommend wearing comfortable active clothing and the same footwear throughout the event but understand that some participants might not want to risk the possibility of running and cycling in wet trainers! One solution is to paddle board in flip flops/wet shoes and put your trainers in a dry bag attached to the paddle board.
Helmets are compulsory to cycle in the Canalathon. Cyclists without a helmet will not be allowed to take part. You’re welcome to wear a helmet for paddle boarding but this is not compulsory due to the gentle nature of the event, instruction about paddling safely under the bridges will be provided.
You are welcome to wear a life jacket but its not compulsory because your paddle board, when leashed to you, acts as a buoyancy aid. Our Paddleboard safety coordinator will demonstrate in the safety briefing how to use your paddle board as a buoyancy aid should you need to.
How will you make sure my paddle board doesn't get mixed up with other participants?
Answer
When you register you will be given a sticker for your paddle board. The sticker will correspond with your participant number so when you collect your board from the event field at the end of the event the event staff can cross check your number with the paddle board number.
Where will I pick up my board?
Answer
Your board will be returned to the event field and stored in wave bays near the entrance so all you need to do is find your wave number and ask the event staff to help you find your board. They will be stored inflated and upright.
What happens to my paddle board after the paddling section?
Answer
When you finish the paddle board section you will be supported to leave the canal and asked to carry your board to the paddle board storage area where a trailer will safely transport your board and paddle back to the event field on your behalf.
Where can I park?
Answer
Parking is provided for free on the event field, please see map.
Will my bike be secure?
Answer
Our dedicated bike Safety Co-ordinator will be looking after the bike storage area to ensure they are safe and secure. You can lock your bike to the barriers provided if you wish.
How will I know where to put my bike?
Answer
Each wave will have a dedicated ‘wave bay’ to store their bikes. Just look for your wave number and pop your bike into the correct bay so it’s easy to find after you’ve completed the paddling and running sections of the event.
Can I drop my bike off before registering?
Answer
Our preference is that participants register before dropping their bikes off so we can ensure the bike is placed in the correct wave bay to help create a smooth transition from the running section.
Cycling is not the first stage of the Canalathon, so where do I take my bike?
Answer
Each participant must take their bike to the dedicated and secure bike area within Westmorland Showground before starting the paddle boarding section. The bike area is accessible by car but we recommend cycling there and walking back to the event field.
When do I need to register?
Answer
We recommend participants register an hour before their Wave start time. This will provide enough time to take bikes to the bike area within Westmorland Show Ground and return to the event field to get your paddle board ready. See map for distances and the routes.
Where do I register on the day?
Answer
All participants must register before starting the event at the gazebo on the event field (opposite Crooklands Hotel). Please bring your Eventbrite ticket so we can cross reference your next of kin info and provide you with your event number (which must remain visible throughout the event) and paddle board sticker.
Where will my wave start from?
Answer
Each Wave group will start from the same place – the event field opposite Crooklands Hotel. After registering, look for the large feather flag and Stef the paddleboard co-ordinator who will brief and then set each wave off!
What is a 'Wave' and how do I know which wave to enter?
Answer
The Crooklands Canalathon ‘Waves’ are groups of 20 participants who have an allocated time to start the Canalathon. Each wave starts paddle boarding together from the event field. You can choose whichever wave suits your schedule, preference or group booking.
Can I complete the Canalathon in a different order?
Answer
No. All participants must complete the Crooklands Canalathon in the event order (paddle board, run, cycle). It has been designed this way to prevent collisions on the canal which is too narrow to have paddle boards pass each other or set off in larger groups than 20.
What is the order of the Crooklands Canalathon?
Answer
Each participant will start the event in their pre-arranged ‘Wave’ of 19 other participants (20 in total) by paddle boarding, then running, then cycling.
ACCESS IT
Which bus takes you to the Towpath Trail?
Answer
As above it depends on which part of the Towpath Trail you want to access. See the Access page for more info
LinkWhich train takes you to the Towpath Trail?
Answer
This depends on which area of the Towpath Trail you want to start and finish at. Check out the walks and cycle routes which include train information.
Where is the Towpath Trail car park?
Is the Towpath Trail suitable for wheelchair users?
Answer
We are working towards making the entire trail wheelchair accessible but currently only short sections of it are, follow this link to find our more.
LinkAPPRECIATE IT
How can I help to look after the Towpath Trail?
Answer
Weโve created links to lots of handy tips such as the Countryside Codeย to help you contribute to the preservation of the wildlife on the Towpath Trail.
Link