Skipton Boat Trips in the running for family business award

The company is in the running for a win in the Leisure and Tourism category in the Yorkshire and Humberside Family Business Awards, and will be competing against the likes of Wolds Way Lavender, Whiskeyside, and Howstean Gorge.

Established in 1989 by Alan and Judith Hughes, Skipton Boat Trips provides tours on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and caters to all manner of trip types, from co-worker bonding sessions to romantic couples' outings.

Festive Christmas dinner cruises are also currently available to book.

Skipton Boat Trips is offering festive boat trips for the Christmas period (Image: Supplied)

James and Jen Watson took the helm in 2018 from James's uncle Nick Osborn and cousin Alex, and James's sister Sally later joined the team.

The family-run business attributes its success to its "dedicated crew," and says that its cruises bring the Dales to life - "blending history, nature, and genuine hospitality."

A spokesperson added: "Our gratitude goes to our amazing crew and supportive community, who help make every canal cruise a memorable experience."

The company has been offering tours of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal for more than 30 years (Image: Supplied)

The Yorkshire and Humberside Family Business Awards 2024 are organised by The Family Business Community, which supports family businesses through peer-to-peer opportunities and pooling of insight.

Leeds' Royal Armouries will host the awards ceremony on Friday, November 22.

Dave Clarkson and Sue Howorth of The Family Business Community will compere, alongside food and drink writer Nigel Barden, who has been chairman of judges for The Great Taste Awards and appeared on the Simon Mayo Drivetime Show.

Another Skipton nominee in the awards is Elsworth at the Mill, which has been named as a finalist in two categories of the awards: Rising Stars and Food and Drink Establishments.

Festive cruises with Skipton Boat Trips can be booked at https://www.canaltrips.co.uk/christmas/