Yorkshire’s Waterways – The Story of the Aire and Calder

In this episode, Michael—founder of MP Landscape and Garden Design and co-creator of White Shire walks—takes listeners on a richly layered journey through Yorkshire’s historic waterways. Focusing on the rivers Aire and Calder, he explores how these vital channels shaped the region’s industrial rise, connected communities, and continue to offer scenic, heritage-rich walking routes today.

Listeners will discover how the Aire and Calder Navigation transformed trade and transport during the Industrial Revolution, linking inland towns to the port of Goole and fuelling Yorkshire’s economic growth. Michael shares insights into the engineering marvels of locks, weirs, and canals, and how towns like Castleford—where the Aire and Calder meet—grew around these lifelines.

The episode blends historical storytelling with practical inspiration, highlighting landmarks such as old mills, canal bridges, and towpaths that still echo the region’s industrial past. Michael also discusses the ecological and cultural revival of these waterways, now enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, and local communities.

As a passionate advocate for regional exploration, Michael introduces White Shire walks—a growing collection of mapped Yorkshire routes available at whiteshire.co.uk. These walks include paths along the Aire and Calder, offering listeners a chance to experience the landscape firsthand, with history, nature, and local charm woven into every step.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful walk with purpose, this episode invites you to see Yorkshire’s rivers not just as watercourses, but as storytellers. Michael’s voice brings warmth, knowledge, and a deep connection to the land, encouraging listeners to explore, reflect, and support the communities that keep this heritage alive.

Tune in for a thoughtful, locally grounded episode that celebrates Yorkshire’s waterways—and find out how you can walk the story yourself.