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The Knaresborough Boats back on the river for 2026

Tuesday, 17 March 2026 16:49

Owner Dan Markie (right) delighted to have the boats back on the river for 2026

The iconic red and green 'Blenkhorn's Boats' in Knaresborough are back on the water for 2026.

While storing the boats away since October, owner Daniel Markie and his staff have been re-painting the iconic boats ready for the new season.

Now all back on the water, the rowing boats are ready for customers to come and see Knaresborough from the water.

No booking is required. The boats will be open weekdays 11am-5pm and weekends 10am-5pm.

A rowing service is also available for those who would like to sit back and relax, taking in all the views and passing under the Knaresborough Viaduct.

Dan took over Blenkhorn's Boats with his dad, Steve Kirkley, 10 years ago, having worked on the waterside since 2008 at the age of 13.

Speaking to Your Harrogate's George Dickson, he said:

"It's been superb having the boats for 10 years.

"We've had lots of superb customers and staff, it's been a great laugh."

Dan started working on the boats while his Grandad was best friends with previous owner, Don Horner.

When Don retired in 2015, Dan convinced his dad to buy the business, and has never looked back:

"For me, working at the boats was just a hobby that I got paid for.

"If you do a job that you love, you never work a day in your life".

Don Horner sadly passed away in 2023, a longtime resident of Knaresborough waterside.

He now has a bench on the river, next to Blenkhorn's Boats, named his memory.

Hear Dan's full chat with George below:

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