Fettlers Wharf Waterside & Marina

A peaceful Rufford marina with countryside charm

Nestled on the Rufford Branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Fettlers Wharf Marina offers peaceful moorings, countryside views, and modern facilities. Whether you’re looking for a boat mooring near Ormskirk, a base on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, or simply a tranquil place to relax, Fettlers Wharf is one of the most welcoming marinas in Lancashire. With over 100 moorings for narrowboats, wide beams and cruisers, the marina is fully equipped with all the facilities you need, and benefits from secure access.

While you’re surrounded by the quiet beauty of the Lancashire countryside, you’re never far from where you need to be. Located in Rufford, near Ormskirk, the railway station is just 100 metres away, with the A59 only 400 metres away, and the M6 (Junction 27) is less than 10 minutes by car. Whether you’re cruising for the day, planning longer journeys, or enjoying a peaceful stay aboard, Fettlers Wharf offers a relaxed and well-connected base. The historic market town of Ormskirk is just a short drive away, Preston is within 12 miles, and the motorway network puts the North West’s towns, cities and attractions within easy reach.

We have your practical needs covered with a full array of Aquavista brilliant basics that you’d expect from modern waterside living including: 

Your mooring options at Fettlers Wharf Waterside & Marina are:

• Leisure moorings
• Visitor moorings
• Winter moorings

If you choose an annual contract, as well as access to all of the facilities you also receive:

• Explore 100 – Free stop-overs at other marinas in the Aquavista group
• Marina Swap - Easily swap to another Aquavista marina up to twice per year
• Moor Benefits – Access to our exclusive Moor Benefits programme
• A choice of payment options – annual, quarterly or monthly
• Regular newsletters and surveys – We make sure you’re up to date with any important news about our marinas, and we love getting your feedback on how we’re doing

When you’re moored at Fettlers Wharf Waterside & Marina, there’s plenty to explore nearby. Stop by the popular Fettlers Wharf Café overlooking the canal, or take a walk along the Rufford Branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal for peaceful countryside views.

Step back in time at Rufford Old Hall, a stunning Tudor manor with beautiful gardens, woodland walks and a fascinating history. Just a short distance away, Mere Sands Wood Nature Reserve offers peaceful trails through woodland and wetlands, with wildlife hides where you can spot everything from kingfishers to deer. Take a stroll into the village to enjoy a bite to eat at the Hesketh Arms or explore the local farm shop for fresh, Lancashire produce. For a day out further afield, the historic market town of Ormskirk is just 15 minutes away with its independent shops, cafés and famous outdoor market, while Preston and Southport are both within a half-hour drive.

Fettlers Wharf Waterside & Marina sits in a prime spot on the Rufford Branch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, giving you easy access to several of Lancashire’s most popular towns and boating destinations.

• Ormskirk – Around 5 miles away, this historic market town offers independent shops, cafés, and a weekly outdoor market.
• Burscough – Just 3 miles along the canal, perfect for a relaxed cruise or a visit to its local pubs and eateries.
• Preston – Approximately 12 miles to the north, with excellent rail and road links and a vibrant waterfront.
• Southport – A 25-minute drive away, this classic seaside town is ideal for day trips from the marina.
• Liverpool – Less than 20 miles away via the A59, making Fettlers Wharf a peaceful base within easy reach of the city’s attractions and culture.
• Wigan – About a 30-minute drive east, with canal connections that link back to the main Leeds & Liverpool route.

Fettlers Wharf Waterside & Marina is open 9am - 4pm Monday to Saturday. You can call us on 01704 821197 and we will be more than happy to help you or arrange an appointment to view the marina. During seasonal and bank holidays our typical office hours may vary, please call the marina office before making a visit.