Ansty to Brinklow
Final day and a short morning to get back to the marina. My car wouldn't start and the brake on one of the rear wheels was stuck on, so we got back to Hertfordshire later than hoped.
20090721
Saturday 11th July
Coventry to Ansty
A gloomy start to the day. Gavin and John went to the Motor museum then we met up for lunch in the Windmill. After that we set off out of Coventry.
Held up at Hawkesbury as there were 3 boats already waiting to go through the lock. Carried on as far as Ansty. Couldn't get a table in the pub till 8.30. Had to reject the London Pride, but the IPA was OK.
A gloomy start to the day. Gavin and John went to the Motor museum then we met up for lunch in the Windmill. After that we set off out of Coventry.
Held up at Hawkesbury as there were 3 boats already waiting to go through the lock. Carried on as far as Ansty. Couldn't get a table in the pub till 8.30. Had to reject the London Pride, but the IPA was OK.
20090711
Friday 10th July
Hartshill to Coventry
Rudely awoken at 6.30am by noise from the works behind the pump. Set off at 9am and stopped for gas at Valley Cruisers. Also there was a dutch barge style narrowboat called Chedworth, which I learned had been across the channel!
Stopped for lunch at Hawkesbury junction for lunch in the Greyhound. Carried on into Coventry for the night. Ate in the Tumeric Gold restaurant which I have been in before, then for a drink in the Windmill and the Gatehouse.
Rudely awoken at 6.30am by noise from the works behind the pump. Set off at 9am and stopped for gas at Valley Cruisers. Also there was a dutch barge style narrowboat called Chedworth, which I learned had been across the channel!
Stopped for lunch at Hawkesbury junction for lunch in the Greyhound. Carried on into Coventry for the night. Ate in the Tumeric Gold restaurant which I have been in before, then for a drink in the Windmill and the Gatehouse.
Thursday 9th July
Hopwas to Hartshill
Stopped in Polesworth for an early lunch in the Royal Oak and provisions.
Stopped for the night at the Anchor near Hartshill. This time the pump on the offside was running continuously, so we moved on just past the old railway bridge.
Stopped in Polesworth for an early lunch in the Royal Oak and provisions.
Stopped for the night at the Anchor near Hartshill. This time the pump on the offside was running continuously, so we moved on just past the old railway bridge.
20090710
Wednesday 8th July
The Plum Pudding to Hopwas
Going through the locks at Fradley I spoke to a guy who had a similar horn on his boat. He said he had found 100psi was too much and had reduced it to 60. It was still very loud. I really must do something about mine. Stopped for water by Fradley swing bridge then carried on to Autherley junction where we had lunch in the Plough
After lunch carried on to Hopwas where we moored near the Lazy Otter. Went to eat in the Red Lion then for a drink in the Lazy Otter.
Going through the locks at Fradley I spoke to a guy who had a similar horn on his boat. He said he had found 100psi was too much and had reduced it to 60. It was still very loud. I really must do something about mine. Stopped for water by Fradley swing bridge then carried on to Autherley junction where we had lunch in the Plough
After lunch carried on to Hopwas where we moored near the Lazy Otter. Went to eat in the Red Lion then for a drink in the Lazy Otter.
20090708
Tuesday 7th July
Great Haywood to The Plum Pudding (Armitage)
Lie in this morning waiting for Shugborough Hall to open at 11am. I went round the house and servants quarters this time plus another visit to the farm after lunch. Got back to the boat and set off for The Plum Pudding. They only have one beer now, Black Sheep, but it was good. It is also now an Italian Brasserie and I was worried when I realised that we were the only customers at 8pm! However more customers did turn up and the food was very good.
Lie in this morning waiting for Shugborough Hall to open at 11am. I went round the house and servants quarters this time plus another visit to the farm after lunch. Got back to the boat and set off for The Plum Pudding. They only have one beer now, Black Sheep, but it was good. It is also now an Italian Brasserie and I was worried when I realised that we were the only customers at 8pm! However more customers did turn up and the food was very good.
Monday 6th July
Coven to Great Haywood
Early start at 8am to get to Penkridge for lunch. A lot of rain today on and off. Went to the Star for lunch then got some more bread in the Co-op.
Long afternoon to get to the next GBG pub, the Clifford Arms in Great Haywood.
Early start at 8am to get to Penkridge for lunch. A lot of rain today on and off. Went to the Star for lunch then got some more bread in the Co-op.
Long afternoon to get to the next GBG pub, the Clifford Arms in Great Haywood.
Sunday 5th July
Gnosall Heath to Coven
Stopped for lunch at Brewood in the Bridge Inn.
Carried on down to Autherley junction where we turned left onto the Staffs and Worcs and went as far as the Fox and Anchor. Mediocre beer and food but there's nothing else around.
Stopped for lunch at Brewood in the Bridge Inn.
Carried on down to Autherley junction where we turned left onto the Staffs and Worcs and went as far as the Fox and Anchor. Mediocre beer and food but there's nothing else around.
20090705
Saturday 4th July
Gnosall Heath
Andy left at 7am to catch a bus into Stafford to catch a train home. Later on Justin and I caught a bus to Stafford, where we had lunch before he caught a train home too. To get some change for the bus back, I went shopping in M&S, then the bus I wanted didn't turn up so I got the next one half an hour later. By this time John and Gavin had been brought by Paul and Andrew in Johns' car. We all went for a meal in the Navigation. Later on after Paul and Andrew had gone we also tried the Boat pub.
Andy left at 7am to catch a bus into Stafford to catch a train home. Later on Justin and I caught a bus to Stafford, where we had lunch before he caught a train home too. To get some change for the bus back, I went shopping in M&S, then the bus I wanted didn't turn up so I got the next one half an hour later. By this time John and Gavin had been brought by Paul and Andrew in Johns' car. We all went for a meal in the Navigation. Later on after Paul and Andrew had gone we also tried the Boat pub.
Friday 3rd July
High Offley to Gnosall Heath
After the rain had stopped we moved on to Gnosall Heath which has a good bus service to Stafford so that Andy and Justin can get trains from there tomorrow. Two of the pubs here were in last years GBG but no more.
We checked out the menus in all three pubs and decided on the Royal Oak to eat, but when we went back later they couldn't' fit us in till 830 so we had a hours wait. Although the menu looked good the food was disappointing.
After the rain had stopped we moved on to Gnosall Heath which has a good bus service to Stafford so that Andy and Justin can get trains from there tomorrow. Two of the pubs here were in last years GBG but no more.
We checked out the menus in all three pubs and decided on the Royal Oak to eat, but when we went back later they couldn't' fit us in till 830 so we had a hours wait. Although the menu looked good the food was disappointing.
Thursday 2nd July
Audlem to High Offley
A long day to get to an old favourite. Completed the Audlem flight and then stopped for brunch. On through the Adderley flight to Market Drayton where we filled up with diesel. Pressed on again and through Tyrley locks and finally stopped near the Anchor. The only change at the Anchor is that Olive, who is now 73, has handpumps for the 6X, to save having to go up and down the cellar steps all the time.
A long day to get to an old favourite. Completed the Audlem flight and then stopped for brunch. On through the Adderley flight to Market Drayton where we filled up with diesel. Pressed on again and through Tyrley locks and finally stopped near the Anchor. The only change at the Anchor is that Olive, who is now 73, has handpumps for the 6X, to save having to go up and down the cellar steps all the time.
Wednesday 1st July
Church Minshull to Audlem
Very hot today. There were many boats going the same way as us so there was a short delay at the first lock. Moored for lunch near Nantwich.
As there was one free mooring in the shade in the Shroppie Fly pound, we stopped there for the night. Went to the pub in the village to eat then finished off with a pint in the Shroppie Fly.
Very hot today. There were many boats going the same way as us so there was a short delay at the first lock. Moored for lunch near Nantwich.
As there was one free mooring in the shade in the Shroppie Fly pound, we stopped there for the night. Went to the pub in the village to eat then finished off with a pint in the Shroppie Fly.
Tuesday 30th June
Anderton to Church Minshull
Filled up with water at the new service block at Anderton. Stopped to have lunch near Rudheath. Stopped again in Middlewich for provisions then carried on to Church Minshull. We were hoping that the Badger would be open by now, as after 4 years of closure it is being brought back into use. However work on it seems to have stalled.
Filled up with water at the new service block at Anderton. Stopped to have lunch near Rudheath. Stopped again in Middlewich for provisions then carried on to Church Minshull. We were hoping that the Badger would be open by now, as after 4 years of closure it is being brought back into use. However work on it seems to have stalled.
Monday 29th June
Higher Walton to Anderton
At Preston Brook we turned right to go to Runcorn. We winded and moored at the end and had walk to find the course of the locks down to the Weaver navigation. Back to Preston Brook and through the tunnel and on to Anderton where we moored for the night. After eating on board we went for a drink in Barnton cricket club.
At Preston Brook we turned right to go to Runcorn. We winded and moored at the end and had walk to find the course of the locks down to the Weaver navigation. Back to Preston Brook and through the tunnel and on to Anderton where we moored for the night. After eating on board we went for a drink in Barnton cricket club.
Sunday 28th June
Manchester to Higher Walton
Left Manchester but stopped in Hale for lunch in the Wetherspoons and some shopping in Tescos.
Stopped for the night just past Higher Walton.
Left Manchester but stopped in Hale for lunch in the Wetherspoons and some shopping in Tescos.
Stopped for the night just past Higher Walton.
Saturday 27th June
Salford Quays and The River Irwell
Short cruise back to Pomona lock ready for our 9am booking. Three men turned up slightly late but none of the Worseley cruising club had turned up yet, so we were on our own for the moment. At the end of no. 3 lock we turned upstream to see how far we could get. The lockies had not been encouraging, but we managed to get to the limit of navigation at Hunts Bank near Victoria station and winded with no problems. On the way downstream however we scraped over a shallow on the inside of the bend near Trafford Bridge, which was to catch one of the boat club boats later on.
Stopped briefly to pickup Andy on the waterbus mooring and continued round to lock where we moored for coffee. After that we went back upstream going close to the Lowry footbridge. Locked back up onto the Bridgewater canal at 1230 and went back to Castlefields.
Went for lunch at the Knott again, after which Ian left us to go home. Later on I went to collect Justin from the coach station. Then we went to eat in Livebait.
Short cruise back to Pomona lock ready for our 9am booking. Three men turned up slightly late but none of the Worseley cruising club had turned up yet, so we were on our own for the moment. At the end of no. 3 lock we turned upstream to see how far we could get. The lockies had not been encouraging, but we managed to get to the limit of navigation at Hunts Bank near Victoria station and winded with no problems. On the way downstream however we scraped over a shallow on the inside of the bend near Trafford Bridge, which was to catch one of the boat club boats later on.
Stopped briefly to pickup Andy on the waterbus mooring and continued round to lock where we moored for coffee. After that we went back upstream going close to the Lowry footbridge. Locked back up onto the Bridgewater canal at 1230 and went back to Castlefields.
Went for lunch at the Knott again, after which Ian left us to go home. Later on I went to collect Justin from the coach station. Then we went to eat in Livebait.
20090629
Friday 26th June
Leigh to Manchester
Just a morning to get into Manchester again. The Knott bar was open this time so we had lunch in there.
In the evening we went to Livebait again to eat, then to the Marble Arch, Bar Fringe and the Castle Hotel.
Just a morning to get into Manchester again. The Knott bar was open this time so we had lunch in there.
In the evening we went to Livebait again to eat, then to the Marble Arch, Bar Fringe and the Castle Hotel.
20090625
Thursday 25th June
Adlington to Leigh
7.15 start to get to Wigan top lock for 9am. There were two boats just going down that lock, and we followed assisted by the lock keeper off and on. Met two single boats coming up. Completed the flight in about 4 hours. Moored by Wigan junction and went to the Berkeley to eat then to the Swan and Railway.
After lunch we paired up with another boat for the two locks down on the Leigh branch. The owner had had a bad year, his wife had died in February, and his dog had gone blind in one eye, but he went ahead with the trip to Liverpool that they had been planning. As we we passed him mooring by the Flashes we learnt that his boat had a Ruston and Hornsby engine, but it was not on show, sounded very different and was a different model to Jacobs.
Moored for the night in Leigh again. Went to the the Bowling Green, but were too late for food and they only had one beer on despite the large banner outside advertising their entry in the GBG. Went to the Thomas Burke to eat.
7.15 start to get to Wigan top lock for 9am. There were two boats just going down that lock, and we followed assisted by the lock keeper off and on. Met two single boats coming up. Completed the flight in about 4 hours. Moored by Wigan junction and went to the Berkeley to eat then to the Swan and Railway.
After lunch we paired up with another boat for the two locks down on the Leigh branch. The owner had had a bad year, his wife had died in February, and his dog had gone blind in one eye, but he went ahead with the trip to Liverpool that they had been planning. As we we passed him mooring by the Flashes we learnt that his boat had a Ruston and Hornsby engine, but it was not on show, sounded very different and was a different model to Jacobs.
Moored for the night in Leigh again. Went to the the Bowling Green, but were too late for food and they only had one beer on despite the large banner outside advertising their entry in the GBG. Went to the Thomas Burke to eat.
Wednesday 24th June
Chorley to Adlington
Short hop this morning as far as Adlington where we moored opposite the White Bear marina. Went to catch the 11.56 train to Blackpool North for a day out. In Blackpool we went to eat in the Pump and Truncheon then we caught a double decker tram to Fleetwood. There we arrived just as a ferry from Larne was coming into port. Tried to get a drink in The Steamer but they only had one beer on, so we went to the Thomas Drummond instead. After a long wait for a tram back we eventually walked back to the terminus where a tram replacement bus appeared. Apparently there had been an accident. Stayed on that bus as far as he took us, south of Pleasure Beach then had a look at the front. By this time trams were running again but they were turning them round near there to avoid the south section of the line. Then we saw one tram run through so we caught the next one south and stayed on it until we were thrown off at Riley road where it went out of service to go back to the depot. They take all the double deckers out of service in the evening, and we followed the tracks to the depot which is not far.
Then we walked down to the Blackpool South station to catch the 18.44 to Lytham. There we went to we eat in Hastings. This used to be a club with lots of beers and food, but is now not a club, has fewer beers but very good food. They had one of the Lytham brewery beers on, which we tried and I had two excellent courses of food. After that we had a quick look at the front and then popped into Taps before catching a train to Preston. We had a half hour change there to catch a train back to Adlington.
Went to the Spinners Arms which unfortunately was having a Bingo night, but this soon finished and we were able to get a seat and enjoy a pint in peace.
Short hop this morning as far as Adlington where we moored opposite the White Bear marina. Went to catch the 11.56 train to Blackpool North for a day out. In Blackpool we went to eat in the Pump and Truncheon then we caught a double decker tram to Fleetwood. There we arrived just as a ferry from Larne was coming into port. Tried to get a drink in The Steamer but they only had one beer on, so we went to the Thomas Drummond instead. After a long wait for a tram back we eventually walked back to the terminus where a tram replacement bus appeared. Apparently there had been an accident. Stayed on that bus as far as he took us, south of Pleasure Beach then had a look at the front. By this time trams were running again but they were turning them round near there to avoid the south section of the line. Then we saw one tram run through so we caught the next one south and stayed on it until we were thrown off at Riley road where it went out of service to go back to the depot. They take all the double deckers out of service in the evening, and we followed the tracks to the depot which is not far.
Then we walked down to the Blackpool South station to catch the 18.44 to Lytham. There we went to we eat in Hastings. This used to be a club with lots of beers and food, but is now not a club, has fewer beers but very good food. They had one of the Lytham brewery beers on, which we tried and I had two excellent courses of food. After that we had a quick look at the front and then popped into Taps before catching a train to Preston. We had a half hour change there to catch a train back to Adlington.
Went to the Spinners Arms which unfortunately was having a Bingo night, but this soon finished and we were able to get a seat and enjoy a pint in peace.
Tuesday 23rd June
Riley Green to Chorley
Stopped for water at Johnsons Hill top lock. Then moored below the top lock and went for lunch in the Top Lock pub.
After that we carried on down through the rest of the locks and on to Chorley. There we moored on the permanent mooring near the M61. Walked into town to the Malt and Hops, then to the Swan with Two Necks which had spotted in Ale Cry. There we had a meal and some Lancaster beer before returning to the Malt and Hops.
Stopped for water at Johnsons Hill top lock. Then moored below the top lock and went for lunch in the Top Lock pub.
After that we carried on down through the rest of the locks and on to Chorley. There we moored on the permanent mooring near the M61. Walked into town to the Malt and Hops, then to the Swan with Two Necks which had spotted in Ale Cry. There we had a meal and some Lancaster beer before returning to the Malt and Hops.
Monday 22nd June
Burnley to Riley Green
Stopped in Blackburn for lunch at Eanam wharf. The pub here was closed down but the rest of the building was still in use as offices. Went to the St. Johns Tavern for a pint of the local Thwaites, ten to the Adelphi which had no beer on. So we went into Morrisons to buy something for lunch back on Jacob.
Stopped for the night on the moorings of the Boatyard Inn but walked up the road to the Royal Oak to eat. Then a mile walk near Hoghton Tower to the Sirloin in Hoghton. This is the village where Sirloin steak gets its name when a king knighted a piece of meat.
Stopped in Blackburn for lunch at Eanam wharf. The pub here was closed down but the rest of the building was still in use as offices. Went to the St. Johns Tavern for a pint of the local Thwaites, ten to the Adelphi which had no beer on. So we went into Morrisons to buy something for lunch back on Jacob.
Stopped for the night on the moorings of the Boatyard Inn but walked up the road to the Royal Oak to eat. Then a mile walk near Hoghton Tower to the Sirloin in Hoghton. This is the village where Sirloin steak gets its name when a king knighted a piece of meat.
20090622
Sunday 21st June
Barnoldswick to Burnley
After three long days, finally a lie in. Set off at 9.45 and arrived at Foulridge tunnel just too late to go through the tunnel, so we were delayed by 45 minutes. After we did get through we moored above Barrowford locks and walked into Barrowford to the the George and Dragon. As we expected they had no food so on our return to Jacob we had a Bacon sandwich.
Passed through the centre of Burnley and moored for the night at the BW yard which is secured by an anti-vandal key. We hurried to catch the 1853 train from Rose Hill station into Burnley, as the next train was 2 hours later. Went to eat in the Wetherspoons, where I had the Lamb shoulder for the first time, and it was very good. Next we went to the Ministry of Ale, home of the Moonstone brewery. Then we went to the Coal Clough, in the hope of finding some Masseys beer, but there were some pump clips turned round and a Karaoke was in progress so we didn't stop there. Finally we went to the Gannow Wharf pub on the way back to the boat on foot.
After three long days, finally a lie in. Set off at 9.45 and arrived at Foulridge tunnel just too late to go through the tunnel, so we were delayed by 45 minutes. After we did get through we moored above Barrowford locks and walked into Barrowford to the the George and Dragon. As we expected they had no food so on our return to Jacob we had a Bacon sandwich.
Passed through the centre of Burnley and moored for the night at the BW yard which is secured by an anti-vandal key. We hurried to catch the 1853 train from Rose Hill station into Burnley, as the next train was 2 hours later. Went to eat in the Wetherspoons, where I had the Lamb shoulder for the first time, and it was very good. Next we went to the Ministry of Ale, home of the Moonstone brewery. Then we went to the Coal Clough, in the hope of finding some Masseys beer, but there were some pump clips turned round and a Karaoke was in progress so we didn't stop there. Finally we went to the Gannow Wharf pub on the way back to the boat on foot.
Saturday 20th June
Cononley to Barnoldswick
Set off at 7.35. Stopped at Snaygill boats to fill with diesel. Only managed to get in 77l. Also exchanged the empty gas bottle.
No sign of Leah in Skipton, but on the way out a man on the towpath said he had designed a 37ft tug on which Jacob and Leah are based. The engine that came out of Leah is at Pennine Cruisers, and Leah is now at Sawley. The 37ft tug, Gill Thorne, has been extended since then.
Had lunch while waiting for a lock near Gargrave in order to be sure of getting through all the locks by 6pm, as all the locks between Skipton and Burnley are locked at night.
Stopped for the evening at Barnoldswick. We went to the only restaurant that we found, which turned out to be good. Then to the Rainhall Cellar Bar. This is in the cellar of an off licence and the way in is through the shop while it is open, or round the back if they are closed. Only open Thursday to Sunday they had two beers on. None of the the other pubs in town looked inviting.
Set off at 7.35. Stopped at Snaygill boats to fill with diesel. Only managed to get in 77l. Also exchanged the empty gas bottle.
No sign of Leah in Skipton, but on the way out a man on the towpath said he had designed a 37ft tug on which Jacob and Leah are based. The engine that came out of Leah is at Pennine Cruisers, and Leah is now at Sawley. The 37ft tug, Gill Thorne, has been extended since then.
Had lunch while waiting for a lock near Gargrave in order to be sure of getting through all the locks by 6pm, as all the locks between Skipton and Burnley are locked at night.
Stopped for the evening at Barnoldswick. We went to the only restaurant that we found, which turned out to be good. Then to the Rainhall Cellar Bar. This is in the cellar of an off licence and the way in is through the shop while it is open, or round the back if they are closed. Only open Thursday to Sunday they had two beers on. None of the the other pubs in town looked inviting.
Friday 19th June
Field locks to Cononley
The lock keeper turned up at 8am and told us that all the staircase locks are locked at 4pm, which was news to us.
When we got to the Bingley 3 rise a boat was waiting there and we shared with them through the 3 and the 5 rise. Stopped for lunch above the Bingley 5 rise and walked to the Brown Cow.
Moored for the night near Cononley and caught a train from the station there into Keithley where we ate in the Livery Rooms, then went on to the Brown Cow and the Boltmakers.
The lock keeper turned up at 8am and told us that all the staircase locks are locked at 4pm, which was news to us.
When we got to the Bingley 3 rise a boat was waiting there and we shared with them through the 3 and the 5 rise. Stopped for lunch above the Bingley 5 rise and walked to the Brown Cow.
Moored for the night near Cononley and caught a train from the station there into Keithley where we ate in the Livery Rooms, then went on to the Brown Cow and the Boltmakers.
Thursday 18th June
Leeds to Field locks
The boat I thought I had arranged to share with starting at 8am, set off at 7.45am. We left at 8.15 but they were waiting for us at River Lock. So we shared locks all the way up to Newlay where we moored. Went for lunch in the Abbey Inn.
After lunch we carried on hoping to get to Saltaire and catch a train into Bradford for the evening. However when we got to top lock of Field triple, we discovered that it was locked. We decided to stay on board for the night and use up some of my emergency rations, and have a night without real ale!
The boat I thought I had arranged to share with starting at 8am, set off at 7.45am. We left at 8.15 but they were waiting for us at River Lock. So we shared locks all the way up to Newlay where we moored. Went for lunch in the Abbey Inn.
After lunch we carried on hoping to get to Saltaire and catch a train into Bradford for the evening. However when we got to top lock of Field triple, we discovered that it was locked. We decided to stay on board for the night and use up some of my emergency rations, and have a night without real ale!
20090617
Tuesday 16th June
Brighouse to Wakefield
Left Brighouse just after 8am after making use of Sainsburys recycling facilities. Didn't go up the Dewsbury arm this time, instead we stopped further on near a disused railway bridge and walked to the Brewers Choice on the outskirts of Ossett. Once again we were faced with a vast array of beers and our plans to also try the Ossett brewery tap were abandoned.
After lunch carried on as far as Wakefield where we moored near the residential moorings near Fall Ing lock. Went to the Six Chimneys to eat then to Henry Boons, Harrys Bar and finally the Fernandes brewery tap where their stout seemed as good as I remembered from 3 years ago.
Left Brighouse just after 8am after making use of Sainsburys recycling facilities. Didn't go up the Dewsbury arm this time, instead we stopped further on near a disused railway bridge and walked to the Brewers Choice on the outskirts of Ossett. Once again we were faced with a vast array of beers and our plans to also try the Ossett brewery tap were abandoned.
After lunch carried on as far as Wakefield where we moored near the residential moorings near Fall Ing lock. Went to the Six Chimneys to eat then to Henry Boons, Harrys Bar and finally the Fernandes brewery tap where their stout seemed as good as I remembered from 3 years ago.
20090615
Sunday 14th June
Todmorden to Sowerby Bridge
Stopped for lunch in Hebden Bridge. Went to Moyles which had a good selection of ales and and interesting menu, so I ended up having three courses.
Arrived at Tuel lane lock just before 5pm expecting to moor there overnight and go through at 8am tomorrow. The lock keeper was still there but was officially off duty at 4.30. Later the narrow boat and the wide boat we had seen on the move earlier arrived and moored behind us.
Went to check out the Works pub. They had an impressive selection of beers but, as we were expecting, no food on Sunday evening. Went back to the boat for a bacon sarnie, then took a wander down the canal to the canal warehouses and then to the Shepherds Rest. This too had a massive range of beers. Later on we went back to the Works.
Stopped for lunch in Hebden Bridge. Went to Moyles which had a good selection of ales and and interesting menu, so I ended up having three courses.
Arrived at Tuel lane lock just before 5pm expecting to moor there overnight and go through at 8am tomorrow. The lock keeper was still there but was officially off duty at 4.30. Later the narrow boat and the wide boat we had seen on the move earlier arrived and moored behind us.
Went to check out the Works pub. They had an impressive selection of beers but, as we were expecting, no food on Sunday evening. Went back to the boat for a bacon sarnie, then took a wander down the canal to the canal warehouses and then to the Shepherds Rest. This too had a massive range of beers. Later on we went back to the Works.
Friday 12th June
Mills Hill to Summit
In order to make it to Summit in one day we left fairly early, but none of the other 3 boats decided to join us and we were on out own for the day.
Failed to find a suitable pub for lunch and evntually stopped in Littleborough for lunch on board. Carried on after lunch as far as the West Summit lock where we moored for the night. One of the pounds near the summit was empty and we had to fill that.
Went to eat in the Summit Inn, then went to check out the other pub nearby. As this had no real ale we decided to walk a mile to the Moorcock, which is in the GBG and was worth the walk.
Thursday 11th June
Manchester to Mills Hill
We were in the second pair of boats to start off in the morning. A few locks up the boat we were sharing with came to halt with something round its prop. After they had tried to get it off, I then had a go and manged to get off a large thick plastic sheet. The only only other problem we had was when I ran aground when I went too near the towpath side in one of the poorly dug out sections.
The wife on the other boat decided that the best thing she could do was make lunch for the crew of both boats. So at 12 sandwiches appeared and we were able to carry on without stopping.
We moored for the night by the pub in Chadderton. We decided to catch a train from the nearby Mills Hill station into Rochdale. After a pint in the Flying Horse Hotel we went to eat in the Baum. Then we went to the Merry Monk and finally the Regal Moon, another Wetherspoons cinema conversion.
Wednesday 10th June
Leigh to Manchester
Stopped at Bridgewater marina for fuel, but only managed to squeeze in 80l.
On arriving at Castlefield we explored the arm off the south side and moored near the end of that for lunch. This is now the more popular mooring and should be quieter. Found the Knott Bar, but it was closed due to work on the railway over it. Went to the Font Bar instead for lunch, only one draught beer, but cheap, especially the cocktails. After that we walked to Ducie Street basin to check if there were any other boats there waiting to go up the Rochdale tomorrow. There were 2 boats there so we decided to go up the Rochdale 9 and join them for the night. Shortly after we arrived there the fourth booked boat arrived.
Another visit to Live Bait to eat was followed by the Ape and Apple, City Arms and finally the Unicorn.
Tuesday 9th June
Burscough to Leigh
Caught up with another boat at the first lock and we shared with them all the way into Wigan where they stopped for the day and we stopped for lunch. We moored behind the hotel boats and went to the Belvedere for lunch. They had two beers from the Prospect brewery. The dark mild was excellent and the Gold Rush was good too.
After lunch we went up the next lock then turned right down the Leigh Arm to Leigh where we moored for the night. Went to the Thomas Burke (Wetherspoons) which was converted from the Hippodrome. We ate there and then went to try the beer in the Boars Head.
Monday 8th June
Eldonian Basin to Burscough
The hotel boats had arranged to have a later start than normal and we were able to take advantage of this. We set off after them but they stopped briefly at Litherland services to allow passengers to get between the 2 boats. After we had been through bridge 9 they sent a crew man ahead on a bike to operate all 5 swing bridges and we were obliged to take advantage of this!
Stopped at Lydiate for a liquid lunch at the Scotch Piper followed by a sandwich on board.
Stopped for the night outside the Farmers Arms near Burscough where we were joined by Andrew for a meal. After that we walked to the Splipway for some more beer.
20090608
Sunday 7th June
Salthouse Dock to Eldonian Basin
Andy and his crew of 4 arrived to join us for the Pier Head link. Peter went to catch a train before we left.
The hotel boats left well before 11am, apparently without being summoned. We were given permission to leave at 1130 and headed round through Albert Dock to Manning Island Lock. We were on our own through the locks this time. Unlike yesterday it was quite a nice day and I was able to take some pictures.
Caught up with the hotel boats at Stanley locks and we moored behind them on the offside of Eldonian basin.
Went for lunch in the Ship and Mitre. Dave had been due to arrive at 1430 but was delayed by 3 hours, so we went for a look at the Bluecoat school. Met Dave at Lime Street station then we got a taxi back to Jacob.
Met Steve in Thomas Rigbys for a drink then went to Zizzis for a meal. Finished off with a pint in the White Star.
20090607
Saturday 6th June
Eldonian basin to Salthouse dock
Up and ready for a 9.30 start but when I spoke to the guy on the other boat I discovered that they had been told 11am. At 10.55 we moved round to the top of the locks for 11am. Two men were there to help us down the four Stanley locks. It was cold and raining and a few hailstones too.
Passed through the disused locks to Princes dock were we had to hang around in the wind whilst two boats were coming up in the new lock. After locking down we passed through the tunnel and out in front of the Liver building. Two more short tunnels later we arrived at Mann Island lock. Locked a few inches down into Canning dock then round through Albert Dock and into Salthouse Dock and backed onto our allotted mooring.
Went for lunch in the Baltic Fleet where we had an excellent dark beer at 3.5%. Collected Ian from Lime Street station at 1630 followed by another visit to the Baltic Fleet. This time they had a different dark beer on which tasted very similar but was 5.5%.
Went to MaBos in China town to eat. The food was good but we had to ask for chopsticks and thy did not give us rice bowls. After that we went to the Roscoe Head, The Dispensary, and the Crown.
Friday 5th June
Lydiate to Eldonian Basin
Up early for a 5am start to be at bridge 9 near Aintree for 7.30. Had a good run with no problems at the 5 swing bridges and arrived at the bridge in plenty of time to have breakfast. There was only one other boat there, and they had not had any trouble apart from inquisitive kids.
The BW team of three arrived at 745, which is what another bit of paperwork said. Arrived at bridge 6 at 830. Boats coming out were already waiting there but we sailed straight through first when the bridge was opened.
Stopped for water at Litherland services then carried on to the canal terminus at Eldonian basin. Boats were gathered at the top of Stanley locks ready to go down, but we had to turn round and back into the basin where we moored on the towpath side.
Walked into town for lunch in the Ship and Mitre. Had a good wander round round town before heading back to the boat for a rest to catch up from our early start.
Later we went back into town for a meal in Wagamamas followed by a drink in the White Star and the Lion.
20090606
Thursday 4th June
Crooke to Lydiate
Another lovely day, only 2 locks this morning. Moored alongside Gargony in Burscough and waited for Steve to arrive to show me progress inside.
Steve joined us for the rest of the day. We moored outside the Slipway pub for lunch.
Later we stopped at Haskayne where Andrew joined us. We hoped to get an evening meal in the Kings Arms, but they only had baps. So after a pint there we walked back to the Ship, where I had a Rag Pie. I enjoyed it but it was heavy going later in the night. Its a meat suet pudding cooked in a rag.
After that we moved on to Lydiate where we went to the Scotch Piper. A pub that has changed very little in 30 years. There are some improvements to the toilets and there is a choice of beers but it does not come in jugs any more.
Wednesday 3rd June
Manchester to Crooke
Set off at 8am and soon turned right to north towards Wigan. Stopped at Bridgewater marina to empty the loo then stopped in Leigh for lunch in the Boars Head.
After lunch we carried on towards Wigan, which we passed through to avoid spending the night there. Noticed that the pier is still closed. There were 2 locks up to Wigan junction and 2 locks down again to go east towards Liverpool. The area between these last two locks look like the best place to moor now.
Stopped for the night at Crooke opposite the Crooke Hall Inn. This is now an Allgates brewery pub and their brewery is in Wigan.
A long day but only 6 locks, and we can look forward to some shorter days now.
20090603
Tuesday 2nd June
Ashton Under Lyne to Manchester
Set off at 8am and turned left Dukinfield junction onto the Ashton canal. When we got to the first lock it looked as though a boat had already been down this morning, as the locks were empty and some of the bottom getes were empty. Slow progress made due to all the paddles being locked up with a hinged plate secured with an anti vandal key operated screw. After a while another boat with a bigger crew caught us up, which meant we could leave all the security locks open. Also came across about 4 boats coming the other way. It took 6 hours to get to Ducie street junction where we moored for lunch.
Unfortunately there were no other boats waiting to go down the Rochdale 9 so we went down on our own. There was too much water around which made it slower to operate most of the locks. The last two were really bad. We had to wait ages before it was possible to open the bottom gates using the chain system. This was probably because by this time there was another boat following us down bringing even more water with it. It took 3 hours to do this flight.
Moored for the night in Castlefield. Went to Livebait to eat. Unfortunately as we were there after 7pm we were too late for the early bird menu, however due a delay with the desserts, which we hadn't noticed, we didnt have to pay for those. I had 3 excellent courses.
Monday 1st June
Strines to Ashton Under Lyne
Started down the Marple flight just after 9. Despite the very stiff bottom paddles we made good progress, helped as we were by a man on a bicycle with a windlass.
Moored just north of the Marple aqueduct for lunch.
Carried on the Dukinfield where we backed into the entrance to Portland basin marina for the night.
Walked into Ashton and found a Chinese restaurant. After that we walked out to find the Oddfellows Arms. This was a Robinsons pub which had their Hatters mild.
20090601
Sunday 31st May
Bollington to Strines
A very easy day, only 2 hours to get to High Lane for lunch in the Royal Oak. We were looking forward to some innovative food but we were dissapointed.
After lunch carried on to Marple where we stopped to fill up with water. Then we turned right at Marple Junction to go a little way up the Peak Forest Canal to moor, after winding, for Strines. We walked up the hill to the viewpoint where we found a pub that I think I may have been to in the past. However we went to the Sportsmans Arms back down on the main road.
Saturday 30th May
Congleton to Bollington
Early start to get to Macclesfield. Arrrived at the Bosley flight of 12 locks just another boat was starting up. They soon left me behind and I had another boat on my heels, but they were of little assistance to me.
Arrived in Macclesfield about 2pm in time to collect Peter from the station where he had arrived on a train replacement bus from Wilmslow. Set off again for Bollington where we moored for the night on the embankment.
Went to eat in the Vale Inn, which is the tap for the nearby Bollington brewery. Then we had a good walk around town finally returning to the Vale. The two beers from the local brewery that I had were good. The pub itself was noisy due to the stone walls.
Early start to get to Macclesfield. Arrrived at the Bosley flight of 12 locks just another boat was starting up. They soon left me behind and I had another boat on my heels, but they were of little assistance to me.
Arrived in Macclesfield about 2pm in time to collect Peter from the station where he had arrived on a train replacement bus from Wilmslow. Set off again for Bollington where we moored for the night on the embankment.
Went to eat in the Vale Inn, which is the tap for the nearby Bollington brewery. Then we had a good walk around town finally returning to the Vale. The two beers from the local brewery that I had were good. The pub itself was noisy due to the stone walls.
20090530
Friday 29th May
Kidsgrove to Congleton
Short hop this morning to get to bridge 86 where there are some moorings, and its the place to moor to walk to Little Moreton Hall. Its a mile away over the fields but it was a beautiful day. The hall is owned by the National Trust and is a moated half timbered building, notable for having a long gallery at second floor level. It was quite busy due to half term and the good weather. I was unable to get in the restaurant and had lunch back on Jacob.
Carried on to Congleton where I went to eat in the Queens Head then down to the Beartown Brewery Tap for a beer or two. I finished off with a pint of Pandamonium, which was excellent, nectar. Sarah Hughes may have something to worry about.
Short hop this morning to get to bridge 86 where there are some moorings, and its the place to moor to walk to Little Moreton Hall. Its a mile away over the fields but it was a beautiful day. The hall is owned by the National Trust and is a moated half timbered building, notable for having a long gallery at second floor level. It was quite busy due to half term and the good weather. I was unable to get in the restaurant and had lunch back on Jacob.
Carried on to Congleton where I went to eat in the Queens Head then down to the Beartown Brewery Tap for a beer or two. I finished off with a pint of Pandamonium, which was excellent, nectar. Sarah Hughes may have something to worry about.
20090529
Thursday 28th May
Barlaston to Kidsgrove
Set off early on a warmer day with little wind. At the first lock I discovered I was not the first boat going north, and was following them all day, ending up mooring behind them for the night.
Stopped for gas at Etruria then carried on to Longport where I moored on the 24hr moorings. The pub I chose no longer does real ale, one pub was boarded up, and the other was closed and up for sale. So I ended up having lunch on board.
After my late lunch I carried on to Harecastle tunnel. I had to wait an hour, but was the first in the queue to go through in a convoy of three. I got through in about 35 minutes despite having to slow down to lower the exhaust a few times.
Moored for the night just east of Poole aqueduct. Went to the Red Bull pub to eat. They had an extensive selection of fish dishes. I went for the Smoked Haddock and Leek sausages! with mash and veg. Excellent. I could have stayed for another Robinsons beer but the sweet menu didn't inspire me and the Blue Bell was calling. I don't think I have ever been in this pub despite its presence in the GBG for years. It never does food and is not open weekday lunchtimes. However it is well worth visiting, even if it isn't folk night.
20090528
Wednesday 27th May
Salt to Barlaston
Grey and cold this morning and it rained most of the way to Stone. Fortunately it stopped raining before I got to the locks in Stone. I went through three locks before stopping. Went to The Swan for lunch, a Stones house. The old Stones brewery is by the canal, not sure where the beers are brewed now, or by whom.
After lunch carried on up through the Meaford flight and stopped for the night at Barlaston. Here the Crown and Cushion is by the canal and had a cask marque plaque outside. They had a beer and curry offer on tonight so that made my choice easy.
After having eaten I walked round the village. There are some very expensive houses round here.
20090527
Tuesday 26th May
Rugeley to Salt
Short run this morning to Great Haywood. Went for lunch in the Clifford Arms. After that I went to the Shugborough Hall estate. I went round most of the gardens and the farmhouse and watermill, but didn't have time to see the walled garden or the house itself.
After that I made the short trip up through Weston to Salt Bridge. One of the boaters I met on the way had just come from there and highly recommended it. He forgot to mention the the canal is right by the railway there, and that the moorings are not very deep and gravelly, so there were strange noises all night.
Went to the Holly Bush Inn to eat. The car park was full, as was the pub. However one of the waitresses managed to find me a table. Its won various awards for food, which was good, and the staff are really good.
20090525
Monday 25th May
Fazeley to Rugeley
Left early to get to Fradley for an early lunch. Arrived there about 1215 and moored south of the junction. Went to the Swan for a quick pint, but decided not to eat there as they were quite busy.
Fradley was not too busy with boats when I passed through but I did get the swingbridge worked for me. At the first lock the fender got dragged down out of the way and the front deck got flooded with leaks from the top gate, but not enough to cause a problem. I foolishly went through the second lock without adjusting the fender and I now have more room in the glasses cupboard. I stopped after that to adjust the fender.
I was thinking of stopping at the Plum Pudding near Armitage, which is now an expensive Italian brasserie, but when I got there there was loud music blaring out from the pub across the road, so I decided to press on. It had started to rain by then but only drizzle. Looked at the Ash Tree pub but it was a 2 for 1 pub, which is not much use for one person, and the moorings are that nasty piling that goes in and out.
Carried on to just before the first visitor mooring in Rugeley where there were several other boats moored, apparently without problems.
There are no GBG pubs so I walked to the Plaza which is a Wetherspoons conversion of a cinema. Also checked out the other two pubs with cask marque approval, but was not impressed enough to go in either.
Sunday 24th May
Harsthill to Fazeley
Left about 9am. An even better day than yesterday, clear blue sky.
Arrived at the Atherstone flight where the top lock had the requisite 6 bollards, including 3 new square wooden ones designed so that rope will not slip on them. The rest of the flight only had 5 bollards, disgraceful. Initially not much help from other boats down the the Atherstone flight but it got better.
Stopped for lunch above lock 10. Set off again just in time so that both locks were set for me. I was disgusted that the locks at Bascote only had 3 bollards.
Initially I moored for the night on the 7 day moorings just before the junction, but after some kids had thrown some stones towards Jacob, I decided to move further on, past Peel wharf. On my way out to find something to eat I received a text from Mike and Rosie who had just passed Jacob on his neighbours boat. I jumped on at the junction and we went on into Fazeley Mill marina. Unfortunately they were just out for the day and had to get back home. I went to the Bulls Head in Two Gates for a drink then on the way back I got an Indian takeaway.
Left about 9am. An even better day than yesterday, clear blue sky.
Arrived at the Atherstone flight where the top lock had the requisite 6 bollards, including 3 new square wooden ones designed so that rope will not slip on them. The rest of the flight only had 5 bollards, disgraceful. Initially not much help from other boats down the the Atherstone flight but it got better.
Stopped for lunch above lock 10. Set off again just in time so that both locks were set for me. I was disgusted that the locks at Bascote only had 3 bollards.
Initially I moored for the night on the 7 day moorings just before the junction, but after some kids had thrown some stones towards Jacob, I decided to move further on, past Peel wharf. On my way out to find something to eat I received a text from Mike and Rosie who had just passed Jacob on his neighbours boat. I jumped on at the junction and we went on into Fazeley Mill marina. Unfortunately they were just out for the day and had to get back home. I went to the Bulls Head in Two Gates for a drink then on the way back I got an Indian takeaway.
20090523
Saturday 23 May
A beautiful day. Set off at nine to be at the Greyhound at Hawkesbury junction for lunch. Had a cold pint of mild, but wasn't inspired by the menu so I retired to Jacob to eat.
Set off again at 1.30 just as the lock got busy. Headed north up the Coventry canal. Passing through Nuneaton I noted that it had improved with new housing by the canal. As there are now two pubs there in the GBG it might be worth stopping there again someday.
Stopped for the night by the Anchor Inn near Hartshill. This is an Everards pub in the GBG. I overheard one customer ask for smoothflow. He was told that they only had real ale and he was persuaded to try some Tiger. I ate in the pub with another pint of mild, then retired to Jacob before the entertainment started.
20090522
Friday 22nd May 2009
Arrived at the marina at 4.30 having been shopping in Daventry.
Eventually I was ready to leave at 8.15 and got as far as the 14 day moorings near Brinklow.