Wednesday 3rd August

Left Retford at 830, the sun was shining but not for long. It came and went and it became quite windy.

Met one of the cruisers from Shireoaks below Forest lower mid lock, he had engine trouble but was going the other way.

Stopped for lunch in Worksop outside the Canal Tavern. Decided to check out this pub. It has recently been refurbished and has a new landlord but had not started doing food yet. So, as it was gone 2pm, it was back to Wetherspoons again.

When we got to Shireoaks I drove Kate back to her car at West Stockwith. I then carried on home from there via the route that we had used on Sunday down the east side of the river.

Tuesday 2nd August

Left West Stockwith at 9.

Stopped for lunch at the White Swan, Drakeholes. The beer was good and we were even allowed to eat something other than the carvery.

Carried on to Retford and moored in my usual place on the west side.

Called in on the Rum Runner but they weren't doing food so we went the the Market Hotel. They had 3 interesting beers on, including 2 from the new Bradfield brewery in Sheffield.

Monday 1st August

Went shopping in Waitrose at 8.30 then left Newark at 9.00, and sailed straight in to Nether Lock.

On arrival at Cromwell lock there were two other narrowboats waiting who were both going to West Stockwith. They both went faster than us but we decided that we were going fast enough.

Had lunch on the way. By the time we got to Gainsborough we had an hour to kill so we stopped on the 'secure' pontoon. As soon as we did, two kids, who were already inside the secure gate, descended upon us. We decided to stay with the boat rather than risk leaving it while we went off for a pint.

Another boat turned up to kill time, but when the kids visited them they changed their minds and carried on.

We left at 15.30 and went slowly, as the current was quite strong, to cover the last 4 miles in an hour.

The tide started to come in at about 16.30 just before West Stockwith. This caused a flurry of activity anongst the other 3 boats as they all had to turn round again. All 3 boats managed to sqeeze in the lock together, and we moored against the wall to wait for the second locking, for which we were on our own.

After locking up we filled up with diesel, only 40l, and moored in the basin. Then Ian drove me back to Newark. I then drove to Shireoaks to meet Kate who was early.

Having left my car at Shireoaks we went for a meal in Wetherspoons in Worksop, then drove to West Stockwith.

As the Waterfront Inn was closed we went for a pint in the White Hart.

Sunday 31st July

A cruiser turned up at the lock before 9am and they seemed rather incompetent so I gave Dave a key to go and get the lock ready. The lock keeper turned up while we were going through but let us finish the operation by ourselves.

Moored outside the marina at Farndon and I drove Ian and Dave to Sawley where we had lunch in the Harrington Arms. Daves Moules were overcooked and had to be rejected.

After lunch we went went to Sawley marina where Dave left us. Ian and I shuffled cars to Farndon and Newark.

Moved Jacob from Farndon into Newark in time to get a reasonable moring. Then we did the the major car shuffle to get a car to West Stockwith, over 30 miles away. On the way back we stopped for a pint in Gainsborough.

Saturday 30th July

Left my car at Gunthorpe and Dave drove me back to Sawley, where Ian was waiting for us.

Left Sawley later than planned so had to stop at Beeston for lunch. Found the Jolly Anglers first but they weren't doing food, so we went to the Boat and Horses and had a quick lunch there.

After that we were stuck behind a dutch barge which was going rather slowly until Meadow Lane lock. When we got back onto the Trent we went at full speed to try to get to Gunthorpe, where I had booked a table at Tom Browns for 6.30.

Moored above Gunthorpe lock and got to the restautant just after 7pm. A good meal marred only by Daves dissapointing 'local' cheese board. Afterwards we went to both the other pubs.

Monday 18th July

Cooler and more wind today. Pottered slowly down to the first lock, Aston lock, in the hope that another boat would come along. No such luck, and I had to do all three locks with limited help from oncoming boats.

Jacob Mk 2 was still at Shardlow Heritage Centre. And obviously had somebody on board but no one peered out to look.

Filled with 70l of fuel at Sawley marina and went to ask about a short term mooring. For up to two weeks you can stay on the visitors moorings, at a price, which I paid.

On the way to Long Eaton station I stopped for lunch at the Harrington Arms.

Travelled to Shireoaks via Nottingham and Worksop. Then drove back to Sawley to collect all the dirty washing and have tea before driving home.

Sunday 17th July

As there is only one train on a Sunday that stops at Willington, which is the next station near the canal, Ian left at 9am to catch the first train of the day from Burton.

I stayed until the chandlery opened at 10am when I bought a proper seal for the water filler cap and a bottle screw for the front fender to hold it tight enough to stop it moving sideways. I fitted both of these immediately.

Stopped for lunch at Willington. Had a bit of an incident while mooring, something caught round the propeller and I crashed into the stern of the boat in front. No damage was done and the offending item turned out to be a fishermans keep net. Still it's only the second time in six weeks that I've had to go down the weed hatch.

There was a choice of three pubs so I chose the one which has Cask Marque plaque outside. I had an nice pint of mild and a substantial Pork Hock with mash and peas.

Carried on till just past Weston and moored for the night in the shade opposite Weston Grange, as it was still very hot.

Saturday 16th July

Another 8am start and the coldest day for a while. We even had the doors shut all night!

Stopped at Alrewas for lunch and tried the Geoarge and Dragon first, where they had a special, limited, menu for the village fair. We then moved on for another pint in the Crown while the parade was going past..

Stopped for the night on the Marstons visitor moorings in Burton on Trent. We had booked a table in the Old Cottage Tavern, where we both had Steak and Stout pie accompanied by their lovely stout.

Then on to the Burton Bridge Inn, where the bar had moved from its original position. It's now in between the two rooms.

Finally we went to the Coopers Tavern, as we had 5 weeks ago. It wasn't any busier than it had been then midweek, but at least there was a cheery barmaid this time instead of a grumpy old man serving.

Friday 15th July

We were woken up at 5.30 by the first train, but managed to get some more sleep until 7.30.

Set off at 8am and made it through Meaford locks in half an hour and Stone locks in good time. After that there was some waiting at most locks.

Got to Weston in time for an early lunch at the Woolpack on the village green.

Carried on down to Great Haywood junction where we stopped to empty the loo. We also succumbed to an ice cream, as by now it was very hot in the sun, though cooler in the shade than it has been for a long time.

Carried on down the Trent and Mersey, meeting no one at the next two locks.

Stopped for water at Ash Green.

Stopped for the night right outside the Plum Pudding which was excellent 5 weeks ago. The beers were the same but I didn't recognise most of the menu. We had an excellent three course meal not spoilt too much by the live singer. Where else can you get ice cream for a starter and soup for a dessert?

Thursday 14th July

Started at 9am. Met with horse drawn boat Maria again at Hall Green lock going the same way as us. Since we last saw them on Sunday they had been up to Bugsworth Basin. We saw them again later when we emerged from the end of the Macclesfield canal. They were heading north up the Trent and Mersey, we turned south.

Arrived at the north portal of Harecastle tunnel at 1315. There were no other boats waiting and the tunnel keeper advised that it would be about an hour before we could go through.

We went off to try the Harecastle pub, but they did not have any real ale so we went to Tescos to get some milk and sandwiches.

Started through the tunnel at 1335 and it only took about 30 minutes.

Stopped for the night above Meaford locks, right next to the west coast main line! Walked to the George and Dragon but they were fully booked for food so we carried on to the Darlaston, which is a family eating pub with no real ale. After our meal there we wnt back to the George and Dragon to try their three beers.

Wednesday 13th July

Set off about 8.15 to finish our ascent of Marple. Turned right at the top onto the Macclesfield Canal.

Stopped on Bollington embankment and walked though town to the Poachers Inn, where we had a cheap two course meal.

On through Macclesfield and down Bosley locks in record time, 1hr 30mins. We only met one boat in the flight so most of the locks were full.

Carried on till 8.15 having a sandwich on the move and moored at Buglawton, so that we could walk to the Beartown Brewery.

Tuesday 12th July

Left Stoak at 8am. The pound below lock 14w was now sufficiently full for us not to run aground this time. However when we got to 10w the pound below that was too low due to an obstruction on the cill of the bottom gates of 9w. We managed to get the bottom gates to close enough to use it and filled the short pound enough to get through.

Andy left us in Stalybridge at lock 6W and Ian and I carried on to moor below lock 4W again, for an early lunch.

We tried to go to the other GBG pub, but it, along with many others, was not open. However the Station Buffet was open and we both had the Archers mild.

On down to Dukinfield junction where we turned south onto the Peak Forest Canal. Decided to go part way up the Marple flight and we stopped for the night near the road above lock 8.

Went for one pint in the Navigation Inn then to the Italian Restaurant which was good and quite quick. After that we went the GBG pub, the Hatters Arms, then back to the Navigation Inn for a Robinsons Double Hop which we had not seen elsewhere.

Monday 11th July

7am start today in order to be at Wool Road for 8, when they unlock the locks for those boats booked on the days passage through Standedge tunnel. While waiting there we filled up with water to ensure minimum air draught for the tunnel.

We went up through the final 9 locks as the second of four boats, ahead of another boat from Shireoaks.

Near the tunnel mouth Jacob was measured to see if he would fit through the tunnel. The first guy said that Jacob was 1/2in too wide but it'll be OK. However he had to get a second opinion who said that we were 3/4in too wide and it would not be OK. So we had to turn round and go back the way we had come!

Dave and Andrew, who had come specially for the day to go through the tunnel with us in the passenger pod, went off to move their cars again.

Only one boat came through the tunnel from Marsden, and he unfortunately got to the top lock before we did, which held us up going back down.

Made it back to Wool Road where Dave drove us all into Dobcross for lunch at the Swan Inn, which is a Theakstons house with most of their beers.

After that Andrew and Dave left, and we carried on down as far as Roaches lock which apppeared to have good moorings below it, but they weren't deep enough for Jacob.

We ate in the Roaches Lock pub then walked up the hill to find the Rising Sun and the Church Inn, Mossley. Finally we went to the Tollemache Arms.

Sunday 10th July

This morning we met a traditional working boat being towed by a horse! It had come from the festival being held at Dukinfield Junction. So when we got there there were a lot of boats.

Turned east onto the Ashton canal which becomes the Huddersfield Narrow at the first lock,1W. Up through the first three locks and moored below lock 4W in Stalybridge.

Went to the Station Buffet for lunch where Dave and Andrew arrived by train from Liverpool to meet us.

Stopped for the night in Uppermill. We could not find a pub serving food so we resorted to the chippy. Then we drank in the Waggon Inn, where there was a quiz on, but at least it didn't have loud music like all the other pubs did.

Saturday 9th July

Dave left early this morning as there were engineering works affecting services around Manchester..

My brother Adrian, his wife Nadia and their two children Elliot and Erin arrived at 10am. Set off up the canal to Whaley Bridge first, then back to the junction, up to Bugsworth Basin and back to New Mills.

Adrian and family then left, and Ian and I went to meet Andy near the station. We went to a Robinsons pub for lunch as the Beehive was not open.

After lunch we carried on back to Marple where we went down the flight of 16 locks in 2 hours despite the stiff bottom paddle gear.

Moored in Romily for the night. Ate in the Spead Eagle, then a pint in a Robinsons pub, then to the Duke of York which had a few interesting beers.

Friday 8th July

Set off from Macclesfield at 9.30. It was a lovely sunny morning then clouded over in the afternoon but at least it was warm.

Stopped for fuel at Bollington Wharf.

Stopped for lunch at High Lane where we went to the Royal Oak. They only had Burtonwood Bitter, but the sandwiches were good.

After that we carried on to the end of the Macclesfield Canal and turned right onto the Peak Forest Canal at Marple.

Stopped for the night at New Mills. There were no visitor moorings so we went on the long term moorings.

Walked 1 1/2 miles to the Pack Horse Inn where we ate and had three pints. Then back to the the Beehive, which was noisy, where we had two Storm beers from Macclesfield.

Thursday 7th July

Left Congleton shortly after 9am on an overcast day. Made it through Bosley locks a bit slower than our usual pace due to the boat in front.

Ians parents joined us for a ride from the top of the locks to the swingbridge at Fools Nook, Oakgrove, where we all had lunch. Unfortunately due to a power cut yesterday they didn't have any real ale. The only rain we had today was while we were in the pub.

Carried on to Macclesfield where we moored near the old Hovis mill.

Started in the Waters Green Tavern then walked out of town to the Railway View, which was supposed to do food but wasn't. Had a pint there anyway as we knew that there was a Wetherspoons as a last resort. However they recommended a pub further out of town to eat which we tried. This turned out to be the Old Kings Head, a Banks pub which we had passed on the canal one mile before we moored. I had an excellent fish platter.

Walked back into town to the Sun Inn which only had two strong beers, so we moved on after one pint to the Prince of Wales.

Wednesday 6th July

Left Wheelock at 8.30. Today it was a mixture of showers,wind and even some sun later on.

No delays through the locks so we stopped for an early lunch at Broughton Arms, Rode Heath. They only had Marstons Bitter and Pedigree so went on to find the Royal Oak. This turned out to have 6 beers. While in there we heard the announcement about the 2012 Olympics.

After that we carried on up the Cheshhire locks to Hardings Wood junction where we turned off the Trent and Mersey onto the Macclesfield Canal.

Stopped for water above the stop lock, then carried on to Congleton. We moored for the night opposite the wharf which is now redeveloped.

We went to the Wharf pub to eat then on to the Brewery Tap of the Beartown brewery.

Tuesday 5th July

Set off at 9.15 having got some milk at the boatyards shop. Down to Barbridge junction where we turned on to the Middlewich branch. Stopped at the first boatyard to get gas, as we had emptied one cylinder this morning.

Stopped again Venetian marine where I bought a couple of bits in their well stocked Aquafax chandlery.

Stopped near bridge 14 to walk into Church Minshull for lunch at the Badger. However we found that it is closed until further notice.

Back to the boat, set off and had soup while under way.

Turned south in Middlewich to go up the Trent and Mersey. We were going to stop for a pint in the pub at Rumps Lock, but this was closed and displaying To Let signs. So we carried on in the rain to Wheelock.

Went to the Nags Head to eat, then to the Commercial Hotel and finally a pint of Hydes in the Cheshire Cat.

Monday 4th July

Rained all morning. Got up at 9 am to do an oil change. The boat which had been in the dry dock since Friday had been broken into.

Left about 11 and paired up with Meanderer to go through the staircase. Stopped for an early lunch at the Harkers Arms.

Set off after lunch in the rain. Had a long afternoon to get to Bunbury by 7.30 where we moored above the staircase.

Walked into Bunbury to the Dysart Arms where we had booked a table for 8pm. They had 4 ales and all were sampled by at least one person. The best was Weetwood Eastgate. Had a 3 course meal there, which was excellent. It is in the same small chain as the Harkers Arms in Chester.

Sunday 3rd July

Only had three hours to do today to get from Ellemere Port to Chester. So we had a lie in, especially as we didn't get back till well after midnight.

Also held up by having a look at the Cuddington next door to us. This is an old ICI boat that carried caustic from Anderton to Liverpool and Birkenhead.

Stopped at Stoak for lunch. The Bunbury Arms was a welcome surprise, 4 ales and a good menu. We just had a starter each.

On to Chester where we moored at Tower Wharf again. After a bit of sightseeing we met up again for a drink in the Harkers Arms, then went for a meal in Telfords Warehouse and finally back to Harkers for more beer.

Saturday 2nd July

Uncle Eric and Pat arrived about 11am. Dave arrived later having been brought by Jill, Gary and Lloyd. They all stayed to look round the museum.

Checked out the museums cafe for lunch but weren't inspired so we escaped through the back gate and walked round to the Holiday Inn. No real ale but good sandwiches. While we were round there we had a closer look at the two locks and swing bridges into the ship canal and the entrance.

Eric and Pat left shortly after lunch. Later on after looking round more of the museum, and after a cup of tea we headed into Liverpool again. Met Andrew in the Thomas Rigby, which has Okells alses. Then onto the Roscoe Head where we were to meet Steve and Carol before going on to the Val Pariso restaurant, which was excellent. Unfortunatley the only two sweets that people fancied were both off, so we only had 2 courses.

After that we went up to the Crack for some more beers.

Friday 1st July

Left Chester at 9am having witnessed the dry dock actually being used. It's about the only thing left of a once thriving area.

The first 2 or 3 miles to the edge of Chester are not marvellous, but then there are three miles of lovely countryside until you get to the motorway. Then its all downhill to Ellesmere Port.

On arrival at the baot museum, the trip boat was blocking access to the lock, so I waited till they left and then went down through the 2 narrow locks and moored on one of the islands.

I was warned that I was moored on top of two sunken pontoons but need not worry unless the level dropped by a few feet!

Walked into Ellesmere Port to get milk. Bought a Bluetooth earpiece in the new shopping centre. Met Ian off the train.

Back to the boat briefly, then set off again to catch a train into Liverpool where we met Andrew at Central station. We first went into the Vines, which may be in the national inventory but doesn't have any real ale. On to the Dispensary for some Cains. I had their new Lager.

Ate in Ma Bos. Disappointed that they now have proper tablecloths and you don't automatically get rice bowls and chop sticks.

After that we went to the Roscoe Head, and because it was raining we stayed there.

Thursday 30th June

Set off at 9am. This stretch is more boring than the previous stretch, not helped by the 1 1/2 miles of moored boats.

When I got to the first lock there were boats coming up in it so I carried on. Same again at the second lock, but at the third, Tarvin Road lock, I was on my own, though a passer by closed the gate behind me. Just below the lock is the Bridge Inn with bollards outside. When it started to rain it confirmed my decision to stop there for an early lunch.

Met boats coming the other way at the next two locks, but when I came to the staircase it was all down to me, including setting it. There were a pair of swans with 2 cygnets who came into the top lock with me but decided to stay there rather than follow me down.

Moored in the last decent spot at Tower wharf. After a cup of tea, a snooze and a shower, I realised that no boats had been up or down the locks since me, so I went back with a windlass to let the swans out of the top lock.

Then I went to Telfords Warehouse for a meal. They have 4 real ales including a mild!

Wednesday 29th June

A miserable morning leading to a late start at 11am. Had to go one mile further on to turn round as it didn't seem to be possible to turn in the entrance to Nantwich Marines arm. I had checked their fuel price, and at 45p/l it wasn't worth going down there to fill up and turn. Stopped for lunch at Calveley, unfortunately the highly praised pub near the canal had changed. As I had left the boat without the guides I walked into the village of Alpraham to check out the other pub, which I was hoping was the one in the GBG.

The first pub that I came to was the Tollemache Arms and obviously wasn't the one in the GBG. But at least it was doing food, which the GBG one definitely wouldn't be. They had 3 real ales and I went for the weakest one, Old Hooky at 4.8%!

The scenery after Calveley was very good which made a change after the dreary section from Barbridge. Carried on through Bunbury staircase where I was lucky enough to pair up with another boat until Beeston Iron lock which we were not allowed to share. I stopped at Chas Harderns for fuel. It only took 71l to fill, less than I was expecting as there was only an inch above the mark on the dipstick.

Stopped at the Shady Oak by Bates Mill Bridge. The mill sounded as if it still had a water wheel in use. The pub had no real ale, but they did have Kronenburg White at 3 pounds a pint, which was rather nice. Had a meal there and decided to move on to the next pub at Crows Nest bridge.

On the way it rained, but the sun shone all the way. On reaching the pub I found that it had changed to The Oak Room and was not open. Retired to the boat.

Tuesday 28th June

Walked to Wrenbury to buy milk. Took photos of some of exhibits on the scarecrow trail. Also went into the church. It has box pews and an organ on the gallery at the west end.

Set off to get through Baddiley locks before lunch. I thought the rush was over but by the time I was going into the first lock there were 4 boats waiting behind me.

Walked to the Farmers Arms, Ravensmoor for lunch. Forced to have a 2 course lunch as they were only one pound more than a sandwich!

Filled up with water at Hurleston, then went straight into the locks and the lock keeper helped me all the way down. Then turned right to Nantwich so that I could go to the Black Lion.

The Oddfellows Arms chef was on holiday, as I should have remembered from our previous visit and due to a long and expensive phone call to Malcolm I was too late to get food in any other pub. I scoured the town looking for a Wetherspoons but without success. It was also student night and a lot of pubs were uninviting.

Having failed to find food I went to the Black Lion. This was an excellent choice, three Weetwood beers plus White Star Titanic.

On the way back to the boat I stopped at the chippy.

Monday 27th June

Another glorious day.

Stayed at Willeymoor until after lunch as I thought they deserved another visit. Went in for an early lunch. One of the interesting beers had gone so there was only one left that I wanted to try.

Set off for Wrenbury but only went slowly, 2.5mph, as I didn't have to keep in front of anyone. I had to do do all three locks on my own but at least I was lucky when I got to Wrenbury, there was a boat coming the other way who let me through the lift bridge.

Moored in the shade near the next disused lift bridge. Walked to Aston to visit the Bhurtpore Inn which is in the GBG. They have a large choice of 10 real ales plus foreign beers and an interesting menu. I was therefore resigned to having a 3 course meal with beers to match. I did have to reject one beer, he said it was getting low so offered me something else instead.

Sunday 26th June

Got up at 8 and before long had a phone call from Andrew to say that he was on his way to join me at Ellesmere.

Set off shortly before 9am. Met Dave, Gary, Jill and Lloyd near the Ellesmere tunnel. Jill and Lloyd jumped on and Dave and Gary went off to leave Daves car near Willeymoor lock.

They returned near Welshampton where Gary jumped on. Dave moved on to bridge 50 where Gary, Jill and Lloyd left, and Dave got on.

Stopped for lunch at the Waggoners at Platt Lane. Had another excellent soup, Pea and Ham this time, plus a good main course and a reasonable sweet.

On to Whitchurch where we went up the partially restored arm. Boats over 40ft are advised not to try turning right out of the arm. We watched a hire boat try and give up so we followed them to the previous winding hole. After turning we ran aground on some sticky clay and could not get off. A passing boat offered help so I asked for a tow. This did the trick.

Got through Grindley Brook without any holdups. On arrival at Willeymor lock we had another pint at the pub, which is in the GBG.

Andrew and Dave left, I had tea back on board and later returned to the pub for another pint.

Saturday 25th June

Travelled back to Ellesmere the way I had come, ie. drove to Shireoaks and got trains to Sheffield, Birmingham and Shrewsbury. Had almost an hour in Shrewsbury to wait for the bus, so I went to the Wetherspoons for a pint.

On arrival at Ellesmere bought some provisions in the Co-op. Ran the engine for about an hour to top up the batteries in preparation for a night of cooling down the fridge. I did try to light the gas burner but failed.

Went for an Indian take away, and did not visit any pubs!

Friday 24th June

At home. Upgraded the phone software. It's supposed to give you more memory to play with, which it did. Little did @ realise some of the other effects.

Thursday 23rd June

Once boats were on the move I set off to turn round and go back to Ellesmere arm.

Caught the 12.30 bus to Gobowen station. I bought a saver return which turned out to be more expensive than when I checked 3 weeks ago. I was told that it was valid either through Manchester or Birmingham. As I had just missed a Chester train and there wasn't another for 2 hours, I decided to go via Birmingham.

Popped into the nearest pub for a quick pint whilst waiting for a train to Shrewsbury which was running half an hour late. Caught a train there to Birmingham New Street which was air conditioned. Had 5 minutes in Birmingham to get the 1530 Newcastle train. This was a Virgin Voyager so there was the usual confusion over seat reservations. The air conditioning on this was too cold so I didn't manage to get a nap. On leaving the train at Sheffield I noticed that the other end of the carriage was a lot warmer and the vestibule was very hot.

The 1644 Lincoln train was advertised as being late so I was hoping to catch that, however it never ran. Something to do with a broken down train at Kiveton. The 1718 did turn up and we got on it but were told to go to the front of the station. As there were no coaches there I checked on the status of the 1744, and that was advertised as running from platform 3. We got on this when it arrived only to have to get off again, and go to platform 5. Finally we were in luck.

Drove home from Shireoaks.

Wednesday 22nd June

Another scorcher.

Found the previous broken hinge from the exhaust and managed to make one good one from the two broken ones.

Had trouble locking the front door when I came to go out for lunch so I got out the file and chisel and sorted that out.

Another sandwich and pint of Hey-Ho for lunch in the Narrow Boat.
Newly repaired pipe ready and fitted.

Set off for Ellesmere. Unfortunately despite arriving early the arm was still full so carried on to Blake Mere.

Walked back into town along the mere and went to the Black Lion to eat. I had a fillet steak which had looked good when Ian had one last week. Walked back past the marina and along the towpath, with a diversion to the castle mound to get a decent phone signal.

Tuesday 21st June

Another hot day. Eventually left Hindford to get to Maestermyn for lunch. Went into the Narrow Boat for a sandwich with a pint of Archers Hey-Ho.

Asked at the boatyard about my broken pipe, and as they said that they could fix it, I went back to the boat to remove it and left it with them.

Watched Tim Henman win his first match in the afternoon.

Back to the pub for an evening meal with another pint of Hey-Ho and a pint of Bombardier.

Monday 20th June

Andy left on the 8.57 then I walked into Chirk again. Found another former pub which had been demolished. Bought some Woods bottled beer in the Co-Op and a large Castrol oil pourer in another shop. Walked back to the boat via the tunnel which was very dark, but at least it wasn't smokey yet.

Set off at 11.15 and got to the Jack Mytton Inn at Hinford in time for a sandwich and a pint of Summer Lightning.

Decided to try and work out why there was so much fuel in the oil collector pot. On removing the cylinder head cover it was immediately obvious that the fuel return pipe from one of the cylinders was broken. However it's probably been like that for about a year.

Sunday 19th June

Set off about 8.30. Got though the one way sections without any problems. Stopped at Trevor basin to try and empty the loo but the boatyard said that they didn't have that facility. Ventured to the end of the arm to turn round and stop for coffee.

Stopped for lunch at Froncystllte and went to Aqueduct Inn. Tried for a second pint in the other pub, but it had closed and was being converted
into a house.

On to Chirk where we moored at the north end of the tunnel, which is convenient for the station. Ian caught the late running 15.57 which was not the one on the timetable.

Walked into the village to check out the food possibilities for the evening, but decided to eat on board.

Later on we tried The Hand Hotel, but they only had Tetleys, so we went to the Statton Arms, which was a Hydes pub and we were there for a lock-in.

Saturday 18th June

Spent the whole day and another night in the new basin at Llangollen. Was
happy to pay the 5ukp for this but was rather disgusted to find that there
is no new facilities block to go with it.

Filled up with water for the first time since in seven days.

Weather started out looking a bit glloomy but when the sun broke through it
got very hot and humid.

Went down to the station to catch the 11am train to Carrog. There we walked
to the GBG Grouse Inn for lunch with Lees beers. Got off the train back at
Berwyn to look at Horseshoe Falls and walk back along the canal feeder.

Went out early to the Corn Mill to ensure that we got one of their one
third unbookable tables. As most people were outside there was plenty of
room inside.

After that we went to the Sun for a few pints. Saw some of the final
episode of Doctor Who there. Finished off on the way back with another
pint in the Corn Mill.

Friday 17th June

Left Queens Head shortly after 8am to arrive at the queue for Frankton
locks at 9.30. There are only bollards for two boats there, so we had fun
trying to moor with the wind blowing us off the shallow edge. There was
only one boat coming down today so we seemed to make it through quickly,
and were out before noon.

Stopped at the Jack Mytton Inn at Hindford for a quick, one pint, lunch so
that we stood a chance of making it to Llangollen for the evening.

The only slight delay we had was at Chirk tunnel where there were two boats
in front of waiting to go through. We did not have to pass any boats at the
one way sections near Llangollen and we arrived at about 7.30.

The Corn Mill said that they were fully booked, so as with the usual
problem in towns of deciding where to eat we went to the chippy. Drank in
the three GBG pubs, the Sun, the Wynstay Hotel and the Corn Mill.

Thursday 16th June

Left Ellesmere in time to make it to Frankton between 9.30 and 10.30. When
we got there were 3 boats in the queue already. Because of this we only
made it to Queens Head for lunch. While we were there we booked a table for
the evening.

Made it to the end at Gronwen Wharf for 4pm where moored for a photo
opportunity and a cup of tea. Then we went back up to Queens Head for the
evening.

Wednesday 15th June

Left Wrenbury at 7am, in the rain, to ensure that we get to Ellesmere
tonight, and on to the Montgomery tomorrow. Passed the hotel boat pair
Morpeth and Alnwick moored the other side of the lift bridge at Wrenbury.

Got through all the locks with no delays so were 2 hours ahead of schedule
at Whitchurch. So we carried on to Platt Lane where we went to the Waggoner
Inn. They had 4 out of 5 beers on. We all had the homemade Pea and
Corriander soup which was good.

After lunch we took a detour down the Prees branch where we filled up with
102l of diesel at 41p/l.

After winding in Ellesmere basin we managed to moor on the arm after asking
one boat to move up one ring to make room.

Went to the Black Lion to eat, which is in the Good Food Guide. The mains
were very good but the starters were dissapointing. They had Marstons
bitter, Pedigree and Summer Ale. After that we had a quick scout round the
town and ended up in the White Hart which also has Marstons Bitter and
Pedigree.
___

Tuesday 14th June

Moored north of the boatyard at Nantwich for an early lunch. Tried to go to
the Black Lion but this doesn't open for lunch during the week. Popped into
the beer shop opposite and purchased three different Traquair House beers.
Then back to the Oddfellows Arms, which is also in the GBG, for lunch.

After that we carried on up to Hurleston Junction where we turned on to
Llangollen Canal. Progress on the Llangollen was good, but we were slowed
down dramatically in the bridge holes by the current, and the approaches to
some of the locks were tricky due to the strong bypass weir flows.

Got to Wrenbury for the evening. Tried the Dusty Miller first but they were
fully booked so we ate in the Cotton Arms which had two beers from the
local Paradise brewery and the food was good. Then a walk into the village
and back to the Dusty Miller to sample the Robinsons.

___

Monday 13th June

Moored for lunch at Market Drayton and walked into town. Had lunch in the
Crown but no Clive pie. Then had a wander round the rest of town and
another pint in the Railway.

Managed to get a bottle of gas at Ted's boatyard.

Moored for the night above lock 12 at Audlem. Ate in the Shroppie Fly then
went for a walk around the village. Had a pint in the Lord Combermere and
another in the Bridge, before finishing up in the Shroppie Fly which by
then had folk music.
___

Sunday 12th June

Set off about 8.30 aiming for an early lunch at Brewood. Called at
Countrywide Cruisers, Brewood for gas and fuel but they were shut. Walked
back to Brewood where we had a good lunch at the Bridge Inn and then went
for another pint at the Swan Hotel.

On the way to the Anchor at High Offley we picked up Ians sister, nephew
and neice at Norwood Junction. They came with us to the Anchor and walked
back from there.

We went to the Anchor at 7pm for a pint and to check that they were not
doing food. Then back to the boat for something to eat followed by a return
to the Anchor for some more Wadworth 6X direct from the cellar.

Saturday 11th June

Another lie in till 8am then a short trip into Penkridge for an early lunch
and a complete crew changeover. Stopped briefly on the way at Midland
Swindlers but managed to avoid buying anything. Also filled up with water
before mooring.

Went to the Railway for lunch as it is in the Good Beer Guide. Met Ian and
Andy there and saw off David and Peter in time for a train at 14.54.

Purchased some basic provisions in Penkridge.

Made it to the Fox and Anchor at Coven which is a spoon pub. It was very
busy so there was a long wait for our food. We were forced to try both
their Bass and Tetley beers, neither of which were good.

After that we walked into the village to find the PH symbol that we had
seen on the OS map. It turned out to be the Rainbow, an Ansells pub which
was selling Bank's Bitter and Original. Would not recommend this pub either.

Friday 10th June

On up to Great Haywood where we emptied the loo and then on to the Staffs
and Worcs canal. Stopped for lunch on Tixall Wide. We managed to get a
prime position in the middle, but were dissapointed not to see any
Kingfishers.

For the evening we stopped at Acton Trussell. We were looking forward to
some real ale and good food at the Moat House, however they did not have
any handpumps but the the draught Pedigree seemed OK. They had a wedding
reception on, so there were no specials, but the food was quite good.

We explored the village thouroughly in search of another pub but there were
none, so we had to return to the Moat House for another drink.

Thursday 9th June

Set off at 8.30 and arrived earier than expected at Arlewas at 11.45. The
weather may be on the turn as it's clouding over.

Ate and drank in the William IV in Arlewas which was not as described in
the canal guide. Also purchased some more provisions.

Stopped for the evening just past Armitage outside the Plum Pudding, which
is opposite Tom Cobleighs Spode Cottage. Checked out the menu in the Plum
Pudding and booked a table there for 7.45, which was half an hour after we
arrived.

Had a really good meal there, followed by a short walk along the canal
towards Hawkesyard Priory. Then back to check the beer in the Spode
Cottage. There wasn't any so we went back into the Plum Pudding.

Wednesday 8th June

Left Sawley on another beutiful day. Stopped at the chandlery in Shardlow.

Passed by Shardlow canal centre where Pete Hawkins has his new boat moored.
It is now sporting the name Jacob and is painted the same colours, but in a
different order, ie. Maroon panels with a black border.

Moored for lunch above the lock at Swarkestone and took the footpath across
the freight line to the Crew and Harpur, where we had our main meal.

On to Burton for the evening where we moored by the Marstons brewery. We
were the only boat there, most were there other side of the bridge, or at
Horninglow. Ate on board then out for a pint at the Coopers Tavern, which
is the old Bass brewery tap and is now in the Tynemill chain.

Tuesday 7th June

Today was very calm and sunny but the air is still cold. However we did get
to wear shorts in the afternoon.

Made it to Nottingham for lunch, where we went to the Vat and Fiddle for
lunch. It is the Castle Rock Brewery Tap, and is now part of the Tynemill
chain.

Moored in Sawley cut for the evening where we ate in the Harrington Arms
follwed by a pint in the Nags Head.

Monday 6th June

Taken by surprise when several other boats left at 8am and headed
upstream. We quickly followed suit and tried to keep up with the last
narrowboat.

We heard on the radio one boat calling Cromwell lock to go through, but
then a bit later there was more radio traffic about a commercial barge
blocking the river. So we slowed down and when we got there there was one
boat being loaded with gravel, a fully loaded one was stuck blocking most
of the river, and another one was waiting to load. All the other
narrowboats and cruisers had moored up to the empty barge.

Shortly after we arrived one of the narrowboats deicided to try to get
round the bow of the loaded barge and we followed him, shortly follwed by
all the other boats.

Still arrived in Newark in time for a late lunch in the Fox and Crown, a
Tynemill pub. After that we pressed on to Gunthorpe for the evening.

When we got there, the secure floating pontoon was full, but we managed to
moor to the bank.

Had a very good meal in Tom Browns, at a reasonable price too, as it was
early in the week.

Sunday 5th June

Stopped at Drakeholes for lunch where we partook of the carvery at the
White Swan.

Arrived at West Stockwith in plenty of time for the tide at 6pm. Filled up
with diesel and gas.

Ideal coditions for our passage up to Torksey where we stopped for the
night. We ate on board then went to the Castle Arms which no longer has
real ale, the eatery pub closed early so we ended up in the nearest pub
where we were initially made to feel unwelcome but at least theey now have
more than John Smiths.

Saturday 4th June

Spent time this morning trimming the ballast to try and correct the list to
port. Also putting lots of stuff in the bilges underneath my bed, but
still had one box left out.

David arrived shortly after 11am and Peter arrived on the 11.18 train. A
fairly swift start and made rapid progress down to Worksop, where we moored
above the town lock, and headed for the Mallard where I had an excellent
Spring Porter.

Made it to west Retford for the evening and went to eat in the Market
Hotel. Then over to the Rum Runner, in the rain, for another pint.

Friday 17th September

Selby to York

We were in the second locking into the River Ouse at about 9am. Passage through Selby was rather turbulent, then had a scare at the first left hand bend where we pushed through the bushes on the outside of the bend, but we escaped without damage.

The rest of the trip to Naburn was swift but uneventful. After Naburn we stopped for fuel at Naburn Marina where we had been told it was cheaper than further upstream.

Moored in York above Lendal Bridge and went for a late lunch in the Maltings.

Thursday 16th September

Doncaster to Selby

Turned onto the New Junction Canal and then onto the Aire and Calder heading for Knottingley, where we hoped to get lunch at the Steam Packet Inn. This didn't appear to be open and the moorings nearby were not suitable in view of the commercial boats which pass there. So we carried on to the visitor moorings near Ferrybridge lock where we had lunch on board again.

Turned round after lunch and headed for Bank Dole Lock where we got onto the River Aire and thence onto the Selby canal.

Moored for the night in Selby basin. Eventually found some food in the hotel which did not have real ale. After a few other pubs we finished off in the Albion Vaults which was in the 2004 GBG. Little did we know that it wasn't in the 2005 edition.

Wednesday 15th September

Sheffield to Doncaster

Turned round aafter going through the straddle warehouse then headed off to Tinsley top lock where we met a different lock keeper. This time he went ahead unlocking the locks and leaving us on our own more, as it's it's much safer going down.

Pressed on through Rotherham and stopped for lunch at Hooton Road Bridge. Unfortunately the Ship Inn by the railway was not open for lunch and the other pub futher east was no longer a pub. There was a shop selling take away snacks so we took advantage of this and went back to the boat where we could enjoy it with a bottle of beer in the sunshine.

Moored for the night on the secure visitor moorings in Doncaster. Having eaten in the Wetherspoons on the market square we went on to visit the Leopard and the Tut'n'Shive.

Tuesday 14th September

Sprotbrough to Sheffield

Another early start to ensure that we would make Sheffield for the evening.

Made good progress so we stopped for lunch in Rotherham. The first GBG pub we tried turned out to be a Wetherspoons so we tried the other entry which was also a Wetherspoons!

Made Tinsley bottom lock in time and the lock keeper escorted us all the way up on his bicycle and doing most of the work.

Monday 13th September

West Stockwith to Sprotbrough

Got up at 7am to prepare for our tidal trip. Moved down to the lock at 8.15 to get fuel and gas. We shared the lock with another narrowboat and a third boat was also going to Keadby after us.

Left the lock at about 9.15. We had no current to help us initially but slowly picked up speed and eventually managed 8.5 mph at 800 rpm, ie about 3.5 mph current. Calm trip sheltered from the worst of the wind by the banks. Make a good entrance into Keadby lock.

The third narrowboat from Stockwith had managed to catch us up and arrived shortly after the other boat. All three of us were going at least as far as Thorne so we leapfrogged through all the swing bridges after the Vazon rail bridge which was looking much better than last year.

In order to make it to Sprotbrough we did not stop for lunch, instead we had it on the move after Thorne. Passed the black boat from Shireoaks at one of the few narrow bridges.

Booked a passage up the Tinsley flight for 3pm tomorrow.

No trouble getting to Sprotbrough where we ate in the Boat Inn, a spoon pub, then went into the village proper for some Sam Smiths at the Ivanhoe. We were forced to move into the public bar when the music quiz started.