The Canal & River Trust, the Huddersfield Canal Society and the Friends of Standedge are set to bring Tunnel End and Standedge Tunnel to life in 2026 with a run of four themed weekends in 2026, each designed to draw families to Marsden for activities on and off the water.
After a strong start at Easter, as pictured, they are now turning attention to the rest of the calendar, with a packed programme that combines trails and games at Tunnel End with the ever-popular boat trips into Standedge Tunnel.
May 24/25: Pirates Weekend
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Swashbuckling fun takes over the site with family-friendly challenges and hands-on activities aimed at younger visitors, alongside food and refreshments from the Watersedge Café.
August 1/2: Reopening Special
A summer celebration marks the 25th anniversary of reopening, with activities planned across the weekend. Music also joins the mix, and TV star Robbie Cummings is featured as part of the programme, supported by the North of England Centre Music & Arts.
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October 30/31: Halloween
As the nights draw in, the tunnel-side setting provides a perfect backdrop for seasonal family activities and themed entertainment, with plenty to keep visitors busy on shore between trips.
December 12/13: Santa Weekend
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The year rounds off with a festive weekend at Tunnel End, with Christmas-themed activities for children and families, warming treats from the café, and the chance to pair a visit with a winter boat trip into Standedge Tunnel.
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