Friday 22nd June

Crofton to Kintbury

Set off shortly after 7am as we had a 6 hour morning ahead of us. Stopped briefly at Great Bedwyn to pick up Andy who arrived on the 9am train from Reading West. Eventually we met up with another boat, Waterloo, also going to Hungerford.

Moored below the lock in Hungerford opposite the wharf and walked to the Downgate for lunch.

After lunch and shopping in Somerfield we carried on to Kintbury which was only two hours away.

Andy left to catch a train home and I changed the alternator belt on the engine.

Went to the Dundas Arms for the evening and also managed a walk round the village.

Thursday 21st June

Devizes to Wilton

Early start for the 4 hour journey to get to Honey Street for lunch. There were very few hire boats around so there weren't many boats on the move and we did not get to share any locks.

Stopped for lunch at noon in the Barge Inn at Honey Street. The beer was warm but the homemade Fish Pie was good.

Left there by 1pm as we had a 6 hour afternoon ahead of us to get to Crofton and help us catch up a day.

Moored one lock above the visitor moorings as they were full. Walked by the side of Wilton Water to Wilton where we went to the Swan Inn. Here the beers were poor but the food was good.

Wednesday 20th June

Semington to Devizes

8am start to get to Sells Green for lunch by noon where we had lunch in the Three Magpies.

Away again at 1pm to get up Caen Hill today and immediately paired with another boat. They were originally going to stop below lock 29, but they must have liked sharing with us and went as far as 44. We got there by 5.30 but we went through three more locks and moored opposite the Black Horse.

Walked into into Devizes where we spotted a Cask Marque plaque on the Black Swan in the market square, so we went there to eat, and it was very good. Then we went went to the three pubs in the GBG, the Bristish Lion, Hare and Hounds, and the Southgate.

Tuesday 19th June

Bath to Semington

Set off at 8am to go up the locks in Bath. We were on our own for the first few locks including the double depth Deep lock. This was tricky on our own as the water comes in at several points and it was difficult to control the boat with one rope.

Paired up with another boat for the last three locks. Then there was the long pound to Bradford.

Moored below the lock in Bradford and walked to the Bunch of Grapes for lunch.

Having to wait yet again for the trip boat to go through Bradford lock, we topped up the water tank and emptied the loo at the wharf.

Stopped for the night at Semington again for another good meal and Badger beers at the Somerset Arms.

Monday 18th June

Bristol to Bath

Left Bristol at 10.45, late enough to avoid being held up at Netham by the high tide. On the way we were overtaken by the Tower Belle, a 1920 steamer which we had seen loading as we left Bristol.

Stopped at Hanham again to go the Lock and Weir pub for lunch. The Tower Belle had just moored there too and was full of students, some of whom headed for the same pub.

Although the first few locks on the Avon were very slow filling, some later ones were not and my usual technique of using the centre line did not work. As the locks are bigger than normal broad locks the water pushes the boat forward, net result two broken plates.

At Weston lock there was a wide Dutch barge ahead of us. I went to help and noticed that when they were in the lock there seemed to be room for us as well. So we shared the lock.

Moored in Bath before the station and walked to the King Williiam to eat. Their dining room is not open on Mondays but the bar snacks were of the same high standard as the meal we had last week. I had Breaded Mackerel followed by Hot Chocolate Pot.

After that we went to the two pubs which are in the GBG and the National Inventory, the Star and the Old Green Tree. There were morris men dancing outside the Old Green Tree.

Sunday 17th June

Bristol

Woken by the naval ship coming down to go out on the tide. Noticed that there were stalls being set up on the bank. Later someone came to tell us that there was Dragon boat racing on today and we had to move.

Rang Uncle John to arrange for them to join us at the pump out pontoon. We then moved up and moored on the harbour wall opposite the pumpout pontoon.

When Uncle John, Auntie Cora and Mum arrived we moved over to the pontoon to pick them up. We took them on a tour of the harbour and up to the station where we moored to go for lunch in the Wetherspoons near there. After that we took them back.

We then moved onto the visitor moorings.

In the evening we went to the Commercial Rooms to eat and then on to some pubs towards the station. One of these was the Kings Head which is in the National Inventory.

Saturday 16th June

Hanham to Bristol

Cast off at 9.15 and went straight in to the open lock. I had checked the tides during the night and I knew it was a big one, so I rang Netham lock. At the second attempt I got through and was told to wait where we were for half an hour.

We had only dropped 6 inches in the lock and by the time I had finished on the phone the level had gone up 3 inches. We waited half an hour, during which the tide started to go out. On the way down river we met a narrowboat coming the other way about a mile from Netham lock.

At Netham I bough a 48 hr licence for a 14m boat, and asked advice about where to moor.

Stopped near the station to wait for Ians tain to arrive and I went to meet him.

Then we carried on to the visitor moorings by Peros bridge and we all went to eat in Zerodegrees. This is a modern gastropub brewing 6 of their own continental style beers unfiltered.

Then we moved down to the quiet moorings between the marina and Underfall yard so that Gavin and John could go to see the SS Great Britain.

At 5pm took Gavin and John to the station to catch their train at 6pm, and finally back to the quiet moorings again.

Ian and I went to eat in the Adam and Eve pub in Hotwells, then on to a few more.

Friday 15th June

Bath to Hanham

Left Darlington Wharf and went down the locks to the river Avon. Part way down we paired up with Ian on Hippocampus. His new boat had been a show boat at the Crick boat show and he had brought it all the way from there single handed.

Went up to the moorings below the Polteney weir and went for lunch in the Volunteer Rifleman.

Then we set off down the River Avon towards Bristol. Although there was a current helping us, the locks, which are bigger, are slow, especially to fill.

Bath certainly does not show it's best side from the river. But once out of Bath the scenery is really beautiful. It rained on and off all day.

Moored for the night on the visitor moorings at Keynsham. Went to eat in the Lock and Weir free house. The menu was quite limited but they had 4 beers and 2 ciders.

Went back to the boat and I set up the satellite dish so that we could watch Doctor Who on BBC3.

Thursday 14th June

Semington to Bath

Forgot to mention that somewhere down the lower end of the Caen Hill flight the bow T stud got broken off by a lock gate. Phoned Bradford Wharf to ask about welding it back on and arranged to call in later.

The stretch from here to Bradford is probably least attractive bit of the K&A.

Arrived Bradford Wharf at about noon. They agreed to do the job there and then, but we had to wait for the trip boat to leave first so we could shuffle boats around. Had lunch in the cafe on the wharf. Eventually got away about 3pm.

The stretch from Bradford to Bath is one of the best bits of the K&A, only spoilt by the large number of moored boats.

Moored above the locks in Bath and walked to the King William for a meal. We were not expecting such expensive food, £22.50 for 2 courses, but it was the best meal of the trip so far. I had Cornish Crab salad followed by slow cooked Lamb for 2. Then we went on to the Old Green Tree which I remembered from previous visit(s) to Bath.

Wednesday 13th June

Devizes to Semington

Up at 7am so that we were ready to go at 8am. Had a word with the lock keeper who said there was no need to wait for another boat to share locks with, so as there was no sign of other boats coming down we started down the main flight of locks at 8.15am.

It was a clear and sunny morning. For a while the towpath is in the shade but after that we were in full sun operating the excessively reduced tail paddle gear. When they are working properly they are too easy and too slow but more often than nor they seem to be as stiff as the paddles would be without the gearing.

Stopped for a cool drink at about 11.15 on the 24hr moorings at the bottom of the main flight. Then carried on to Sells Green where we went to the Three Magpies for lunch.

Shortly after setting off after lunch it started to rain, so we did the next 6 locks and a few swing bridges in the rain.

Stopped for the night at Semington where we went to the Somerset Arms for a meal accompanied by Badger beers. This is where the Wilts and Berks Canal used to go from to get to Abingdon.

Monday 11th June

Great Bedwyn to Pewsey

Set off about 9.15 and immediately paired up with another boat who noticed a change of crew since Thatcham.

John and Gavin left at lock 60 to go and look round the Crofton pumping station. I carried on and they caught up with me a few locks further on .

However there was a problem ahead. A hydraulic paddle was stuck up on lock 56 so we had to wait below lock 57.

The level in the pound below lock 57 was already low, but when another boat started coming up lock 58 we got stuck at an alarming angle. Eventually, as the pound above was full, the two boats waiting in 57 went up, which got us afloat again, and we went into the lock to wait. Had lunch on board whilst waiting in the lock.

A man from BW managed to get the offending paddle down and we all started to make our way through this lock using just the one paddle.

Moored for the night at Pewsey and went to the French Horn to eat. It is a Wadworths pub run by an Australian couple, and they did some good food.

We were inteding to go to the Coopers Arms in the village, but as we left the French Horn it started to rain. So we went straight back to the boat and watched Pirates of the Caribbean II.

Tuesday 12th June

Pewsey to Devizes

Moved along to Pewsey Wharf to fill up with water and have breakfast there.

Stopped for lunch at the Bridge Inn, Horton Bridge. Here they had Wadworth IPA and 6X from wooden firkins behind the bar. Although the IPA was good, the 6X was not.

At Devizes Wharf we stopped to empty the loo and have a cup of tea. Then we went down through the first five locks to reduce the number we have to do tomorrow. This takes you to the top of the main flight of 16 locks at Caen Hill, and there are a few 24hr moorings here. We were the only boat moored here that was waiting to go down.

As none of of the 3 Devizes pubs in the GBG does food in the evening we went back up the locks to the Black Horse by the canal to eat. This too is a Wadworth pub and we had some JCB which was drinkable but not right.

After that we walked into town for cash, provisions and to the Hare and Hounds pub for what is supposed to be the reference pint of 6X. It's been in the GBG for 20 years with the same licencee.

Sunday 10th June

Kintbury to Great Bedwyn

Late start but it was only a two hour journey to Hungerford.

Went for lunch in the Downgate, an Arkells pub. I had home made Faggotts folowed by home made Banana Ice Cream, excellent.

Stopped for the night at Great Bedwyn. The visitor moorings were full and we moored with the stern 6 feet from the bank.

Of the two pubs, one was not open and the other was not serving food, so we had to eat on board and go back for a drink later.

Saturday 9th June

Thatcham to Kintbury

Prepared to set off from Thatcham as a boat appeared at the swing bridge, only to find that three boats came through. So I was lumbered with sharing locks with the last boat, a hire boat full of Germans.

Made it to Newbury by noon and moored outside the Narrow Boat pub, which didn't look inspiring. John and Gavin were delivered here by Paul and Andrew. We had lunch in the pub which was better than I was expecting.

Left by 3pm and got to Kintbury by 8pm. The 250m of moorings were full so we moored opposite the very large old rectory.

Went to the Dundas Arms where we had a very good two course meal. Then we went for a wander round the village, which even had a fishmongers!

Friday 8th June

Reading to Thatcham
Andy and John arrived at about 8.30 and we set off for Thatcham. We did not get to share any locks until after 1pm, but then we shared for the rest of the day.

We did not stop for lunch as we were worried about getting through Aldermaston lift bridge before the rush hour cut out operated. Aldermaston was busy as there were some hire boats starting out.

Went beyond Thatcham station, through Monkey Marsh lock and swing bridge, where there is a bridle way into town. Walked back to the Swan near the station for a meal, after which Andy and John caught a train back to Reading. I then went to explore the town and managed to find my way back via the bridleway across the railway tracks. (There was a footbridge too).

Thursday 7th June

Sonning to Reading

Left Sonning to get to Reading for lunch. I saw a narrowboat called Golden Cross which was featured on Waterworld.

Went slightly out of my way to fill up with fuel and water at Better Boating in Caversham. Tony who used to work in my department has his boat moored there and helps out too, but he is away for a week on his boat, probably up the Thames.

Turned off the Thames and onto the Kennet & Avon Canal at Reading, through Blakes lock and moored in the Forbury loop by the Oscar Wilde walk outside the jail.

Went for lunch at the Eldon Arms. Later I had a wander round Reading.

Went to Andys for dinner, then we went out for a few beers at the Retreat.

Wednesday 6th June

Aston to Sonning

Late start as I only wanted to get to Henley for lunch. Moored on the east bank just north of Henley. Walked to the Bird in Hand which is the one I went to last time, 7 years ago. It's the only free house and had 5 beers including Hooky Dark (mild).

Having spotted Waitrose on the way to the pub I went in on the way back.

Moored for the evening at Sonning by Sonning Court where Uri Geller lives. He donates the £5 mooring fee to charity.

Went to the Bull to eat. It's a former Gales pub so they only have Fullers beers, but at least they had 4 different ones.

After that I walked over the bridge to explore Sonning Eye but decided against walking to the pub listed in the GBG on the main road as there was no footpath.

Tuesday 5th June

Maidenhead to Aston

Another sunny day but with a cool easterly wind and the current was just as strong as yesterday.

Stopped at Cookham lock lock to empty the loo and get some "Welcome to moor alongside" stickers.

Moored for lunch at the Bounty which is listed in the GBG under Cookham but is actually nearer Bourne End. It's on the opposite side of the river from Bourne End with no road access. I witnessed a beer delivery by boat. I was the only boat based customer.

Carried on and managed to moor on the jetty at Aston sticking out into the river. Later walked up to the Flower Pot for an evening meal of roast pheasant and Brakspear ales.

Monday 4th June

Staines to Maidenhead

Late start from Staines. Had the first lock all to myself, then 2 other narrowbaots at the next and finally a big trip boat as well at the last lock.

Moored on the south side at Windsor where you are supposed to pay £4. Went to the Carpenters Arms for lunch. They had a choice of 5 beers, all from small breweries, and good food. It's behind the venue for Charles and Camillas marriage.

In the afternoon the current seemed even stronger, at times I was not even making 3mph so the current must have been 1.5mph.

I baulked at paying £8 for the moorings below the railway bridge in Maidenhead and went on to the free moorings by the road north of the road bridge. Most of the rings here were broken.

Went to the Portland Arms, then on to the Greyhound (Lloyds No.1) to eat. On the way back spotted the display on the guaging station showing that the river is flowing at 40 cu.m/s.

Sunday 3rd June

Weybridge to Staines

Andy arrived at 10.30 and as Town lock was set against us we waited for a boat to come the other way before starting. At Thames lock we had to use the gate on the outer pound as the level on the Thames was back to normal.

Bought a one month licence at Shepperton lock.

Moored near Laleham and walked to the Feathers where we had a good roast beef lunch.

After lunch we went the short distance to Staines where we moored on the east side. Went for a drink in the Swan on the west side and decided to move to their moorings. No sooner had we started tying up than a waitress appeared demanding a £10 mooring fee refundable against purchases in the pub.

Andy then left to cycle back to his car in Weymouth. Later on Andy from work arrived and we went for a few more beers in the Swan and I had my second Eggs Benedict of the hoiday.

Saturday 2nd June

Guildford to Weybridge

A warm and sunny day, so shorts and t-shirt from the start. It was nice to see this stretch of the river in good weather as it had been miserable going the other way.

Stopped at the New Inn again for lunch. It's a rare treat to find a GBG pub actually on the navigation, shame about the poor phone signal.

In the afternoon carried on to Weybridge and moored for the night above Town lock.

At the previous lock kids had been swimming in the lock, and they had also put a rope from the bridge. I was careful to avoid getting this round the prop, but it caught the anchor which nearly broke a front window pane.

Walked to the Old Crown, where I had some good fresh fish. Then to the Jolly Farmer for a pint of Hop Back Odyssey bitter.

Friday 1st June

Godalming to Guildford

I was rudely awoken not long after 6am by builders on a site which had been very quiet yesterday.

Winded by the boat house as I did not want to risk winding by the town bridge again without crew. Set off slowly for Guildford. There were no hire boats out in the morning as it was turn round day at the boatyards.

At the second lock, which was set against me, I decided to risk going into the lock through one gate. But the waterways officer, who appeared on foot, caught me at it and offered to open the other one.

Moored on the non towpath side above the Guildford Rowing Club and went to the Keystone for lunch.

Then I explored the town, finding the castle, visiting M&S and finally traipsing all the way to the cathedral. I purchased a CD featuring the organ and caught a bus back into town.

In the evening I went to see a Flanders and Swan show at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre. I had an interview here 29 years ago.

Thursday 31st May

Shalford to Godalming

A grey start to the day so I waited till it had brightened up. Arrived at the first lock to find a queue of 3 boats with another one behind me, so 5 in total.

Moored below the sanitary station in Godalming and walked to the Red Lion to find it shut and no clips on the pumps. So for lunch I went to the nearby Star which I'd seen advertising in the local Camra newletter.

It was quite poignant seeing a Phylliss Tuckwell Hospice in town.

Purchased a pedal bin in Robert Dyas. Later on topped up supplies in Waitrose.

In the evening I went to the Cricketers in Farncombe but their kitchen is being redone. So I had to resort to eating in the Jack Phillips, the Wetherspoons named after the radio operator on Titanic. The town seems to be quite proud of him and even have a specially built memorial cloister by the river.

Wednesday 30th May

Send to Shalford

A miserable morning. Set off for Guildford. Shared the first two locks but the other boat stopped for water at the third, so I carried on.

Moored in Guildford and went to the Keystone for lunch.

Waited till the rain stopped and then carried on the 2 miles and 2 locks to Shalford. As the bank was quite soft I used the big mooring pins for only the second time, the first time was also on the River Wey.

Walked into Shalford to go to the Queen Victoria the back to the Parrot to eat.

Tuesday 29th May

Weybridge to Send

A nice day and no restrictions on the Wey. Set off to get to Byfleet for lunch. Met another boat at the first loack and we wnt through two locks together. I had to do the third lock myself and discovered the need for front and aft ropes due to the gate paddles. Also the paddle gear can be very stiff despite the long handle windlass that I had hired.

Moored by Byfleet Boat Club and walked into Byfleet to visit the Plough for lunch. On the way back I purchased some bread and milk.

In the afternoon I did not get to share any locks but I did get help from hire boats coming downstream.

Emptied the loo above Pyrford lock and filled up with water at Cartbidge wharf. Moored for the night by the New Inn at Cart Bridge, Send.

Monday 28th May

Kingston to Weybridge

Mark came along to Kingston to help me get off the Thames and onto the River Wey at Shepperton. There was quite a strong current due to the weirs being opened to get the levels back down to normal. It was also very cold due to the wind. With Marks advice I went round the wrong side of some of the islands. Had lunch en route.

The hairiest bit was going across the bottom of the weir at Shepperton to get to the Wey. There was a very strong current which bounced off the oppsite bank causing a whirlpool in front of the mouth of the Wey.

We did not need to use the gates on the outer pound at Thames lock to get over the cill as the level was 3ft higher than usual!

Moored above the lock for the night. We were collected by car from here to be taken back to the real world for the evening.

Sunday 27th May

Limehouse to Kingston

Joined two other narrowboats in the lock at 8am. It rained all the way to Teddington which took just under 4 hours. There was hardly any boat traffic in central London but further on we encountered quite a few rowing boats and a whole flottilla of cruisers coming downstream.

Moored above the lock at Teddington to go back and get a licence. The we went to the Queen Dowager for lunch.

After that we wnet to the station where John and Andy caught a train to Waterloo to get hone.

Later in the afternoon I moved further up river to Kingston. I was going to go out for a drink but it started to rain. It was a wild and wet night, but I slept quite well.

Saturday 26th May

Paddington Basin to Limehouse

Andy and Simon arrived in time for us to leave shortly after 10am. We also collected Jon on his bike near St. Pancras.

Stopped for lunch at the Narrowboat in Islington. Jon left us here on arrival and Simon left on departure.

Turned off the Regents canal onto the Hertford Union and the south on the River Lee to Old Ford Lock, by which time it was raining. After that turned left to go round the Bow Back River loop which has been dredged since my last visit.

Squeezed into a gap in Limehouse. Ended up eating in The Narrow, which has gone more upmarket. The restaurant was fully booked so we had to select from the very limited bar menu. After that we moved to the Grapes which used to be in the GBG.

Friday 25th May

In the morning I ran the engine and did some cleaning.

For lunch I went to the Duke of Wellington in Marylebone. Here I had the cheapest sandwich since Worksop, only £2!

On the way back to Jacob I went to Maplins to buy a new lead for my GPS. The lead that I wanted is now only mail order, but they had sound meters on special offer again and also some solar panels so I got those.

In the evening Mark come round and we went for a lovely meal in Zizzis. The food was good but the service was slow.

Thursday 24th May

Little Venice

Went on a day trip home to do some washing, clear the doormat and email.

When I got back I went to the Mad Bishop in Paddington station to eat. This is a Fullers pub which is accessed from the shopping area but is in what appears to a grand room in the old station building.

Wednesday 23rd May

Harefield to Little Venice

Rudely awoken at 7.30am by horrendous noises from the works next to the canal which we had not spotted when we moored.

Purchased some fresh bread and milk so that we could had a bacon sarnie for breakfast.

Just as we were ready to set off a wide barge and pusher tug nabbed the lock. Only 4 locks today. Passed Tudor Rose moored at Uxbridge.

Stopped at Uxbridge boat centre for fuel. I had dipped the tank and was surprised to find 1cm above the low level mark. Managed to get in 104l which meant we qualified for the 1p lower rate of 48p/l. Also bought some cable for the throttle. To fit it we had to slightly enlarge one of the end fittings, but the end result should last for longer than the original.

All this meant we were now running late but we made it to Hayes in time for a pint and a meal in the Wetherspoons. Mikes car would not start so I removed the engine battery from Jacob and Mike carried it to the car to jump start it.

I did not get away till 3.30pm but managed to average 3.6mph and arrived at Little Venice by 8.30pm.

Little Venice was very busy and I moored even further out that last time. Tudor Rose passed by at modnight.

Went to the Union for a pint and a beefburger.

Tuesday 22nd May

Kings Langley to Harefield

Started at 930 and immediately another boat joined us at the first lock.

Moored near Croxley Green station and went to the Sportsman for lunch.

Again after lunch we were joined by another boat, Tudor Rose, and we shared all the way to south Harefield, where we moored above the lock.

Walked to Denham. We failed to find the footpath shortcut, and ended up going the long way round, almost 2 miles. Went to the Falcon to eat accompanied some very good Brakspears bitter. We managed three couses, maily because the portions were small, especially my sweet.

After that we tried the other two pubs, both of which had good beer despite not being in the Good Beer Guide. Ordered a taxi back.

Monday 21st May

Berkhamsted to Kings Langley

Left Berko at about 9am, going solo through the locks for a while until I teamed up with another boat just in time to go through Winkwell swing bridge. We both wanted diesel but the boatyard there was closed.

Saw Jannock and Parglena of Cutweb and Canals list fame at Bourne End.

Also saw quite a few old working boats coming north from the Rickmansworth canal festival. Including one pair travelling breasted up through a bridge hidden by a tree.

Moored in in Boxmoor and went for lunch at the Fishery Inn. This pub was being refurbished 7 years ago and is now an Ember Inn.

After that carried on through Hemel and Aspley to Kings Langley where I managed to moor 2' 6" from the bank.

Met Mike at the station and we went to the Saracens Head.

Sunday 20th May

Tring to Berkhamsted

Left Little Tring and squeezed our way through the boats moored both sides for the festival next weekend. The water level had dropped overnight which had made things worse than when we arrived.

Turned south at Bulboune down the Grand Union. Stopped briefly at Cowroast to check out the fuel price, which 52p. That combined with the difficulty of getting in to the marina to buy it meant we didn't bother.

On trying to leave Cowroast lock the throttle cable broke so we moored to sort it out. The chandlery didn't have anything suitable so I used a bit of 2.5mm wire.

Arrived in Berhamsted for a late lunch at the Boat. It was very busy and due to the delay for food, Ian did not order any, as he had a train to catch.

Stayed in Berhamsted for the rest of the day, and visited the Lamb and the Crystal Palace in the evening.

Saturday 19th May

Aylesbury to Tring

A good sunny start to the day we left Aylesbury by 9am. Stopped below lock 4 on the Aylesbury Arm and walked to the Anglers Retreat for lunch. As arranged Mike turned up later with Victoria and Tom.

At Marsworth junction we turned right and teamed up with another boat to go through the locks up to Bulbourne. Here we turned right onto the Wendover Arm which is now longer than it was 7 years ago. We winded at the end and backed into the very end of the canal where we moored for the night.

Mike, Tom and Victoria left us there and later myself and Ian walked the mile into Tring to go the Kings Arms. This has been in the Good Beer Guide 25 years running. They had a good selection of beers and some interesting food.

Only our second dry day in 2 weeks..

Friday 18th May

Marsworth to Aylesbury

Had a lie in and a late start. Turned off onto the Aylesbury Arm and stopped for lunch at Wilstone, which is where we stopped 7 years ago. Except this time I was wearing shorts and a t-shirt instead of feeling like a drowned rat.

Carried on down to Aylesbury. Pulled in for water then turned round and moored for the night on the offside with permission from the guy on the welcome boat of the Alyesbury Canal Society.

Went to The Hop Pole for food and some Vale Brewery beers, followed by some beer from the Chiltern brewery in the King's Head. This pub is owned by the National Trust but is run by the Chiltern Brewery and had four of their beers on draught.

Thursday 17th May

Soulbury to Marsden

A warmer day but with a bit of drizzle.

Stopped for lunch at Slapton and walked to the Carpenter Arms expecting to find the home of the Vale Brewery, however the canal guide was jumping the gun, and they never actually brewed here and have sold it. However we had some very good London Pride.

Stopped for the night at Marsworth. Went to the Red Lion to eat then on to the Anglers Retreat.

Wednesday 16th May

Stoke Bruerne to Soulbury

Left Stoke Bruerne bottom lock on a dry and relatively warm morning. It started to rain when we got to Wolverton and just finished by the time we moored for lunch at the Black Horse, Great Linford. They only had Tim Taylors Landlord which was good. The open sandwiches were better and cheaper than the ones last night.

After that we carried on through Milton Keynes. Stopped at Willowbridge to buy some new fenders, having destroyed two in last few days I had no spares. Then on to Soulbury to find that the Three Locks pub was closed.
However Mike and Rosie soon turned up in a car to take us to the Bell in Beachampton, where we had a two course meal with Hook Norton Hooky beer.

Tuesday 15th May

Welton to Stoke Bruerne

Left Welton Hythe and turned left at Norton junction onto the Grand Union main line. Another boat joined us to share Bucky locks. We moored briefly at Whilton so that I could collect some filters from the chandlery.

Pressed on to Weedon for lunch. Walked into Lower Weedon to the Plume of Feathers where we were served beer in jug type glasses.

In the afternoon we carried on through Blisworth tunnel and down Stoke Bruerne locks where we moored for the night at the bottom.

Walked back up to the Boat Inn where I had a very expensive smoked salmon sandwich. It was twice the price of the one I had 4 days ago, and not as good. The beer also was not cheap, the Marstons Old Empire was £3.00 a pint, but it was good. We finished off with a pint in the the Navigation, to see what that was like. Very much a family pub but with three beers, we had the Banks's Amber.

Monday 14th May

Welford to Welton

Left Welford and turned left at Welford Junction to carry on south down the Leicester section of the Grand Union.

Moored for lunch at Crick where we went to the Red Lion to eat, then on to the Royal Oak, which is in the GBG but does not do food.

After lunch we went through Crick tunnel and down Watford locks. Moored for the night opposite Welford Hythe marina. As it was not raining we decided to walk to the White Horse in Welton for the evening.

Sunday 13th May

Market Harborough to Welford

Arrived at Foxton to find 3 boats on their way down so we had to wait about 1/2 hour. Then we were the first of two boats going up with one coming down, which we passed at the half way point.

Moored at the top of the flight near Gumley bridge, and walked to the Bell Inn in Gumley. We had an excellent 2 course lunch, the best meal so far. By the time we had finished that it was raining, which continued for a few hours.

Carried on in the rain south through Husbands Bosworth tunnel and then turned off onto the Welford Arm to Welford where we moored for the night in a mobile phone blackspot.

Went to the Wharf Inn to eat then into the village. The Shoulder of Mutton is no longer a pub, but the bar of the Elizabethan restaurant was open, so we went in there. Then we went back the Wharf Inn.

Saturday 12th May

Kilby Bridge to Market Harborough

Up at 8 and got under way just in time to beat two other boats setting off, who would have left all the locks set against us.

Caught up with another boat which had been moored at Newton Harcourt, and we shared the last 5 locks up to Saddington Tunnel.

Carried on through the tunnel and moored at the southern end. Walked up the hill for lunch in the Queens Head in Saddington village.

Carried on to Foxton where we moored opposite the Inn. Left the water tank filling whilst we went for a pint in the BW refurbished Inn and a mooch round the Inclined plane.

Then went up the Market Harborough arm to Market Harborough where we winded and moored for the night. Went to the Sugar Loaf (Wetherspoons) to eat, then on to the Cherry Tree.

Friday 11th May

Leicester to Kilby Bridge

Decided that we would only go as far as Kilby Bridge today, so I had time to go into town and look at cameras. We had seen a Jessops last night and I also found a Jacobs where I purchased another Ricoh.

Moved on to Aylestone where we went to the Black Horse for lunch. It was an Everards pub and I had their new beer called Sly Fox, which is flavoured with Ginger and was excellent.

After that we were off the River Soar and onto the Grand Union Lecester Line which carries on round the south of Lecester to Kilby Bridge. All the locks needed a BW key to operate the paddles.

Moored at Kilby Bridge and went out to try and catch the bus that we had picked up a leaflet about, but we gave up and ended up walking to Wigston to get a bus to Leicester city centre.

Went to the Corn Exchange (Lloyds No.1) to eat then to the Globe, Shakespeares Head, and Out of the Vaults.

Managed to catch a bus back closer to Kilby Bridge than on the way out.

Thursday 10th May

Loughborough to Leicester

Stopped for lunch at the Hope and Anchor, Syston, which is a Hungry Horse pub. Then on into Leicester where we moored on the secure pontoon at Castle gardens.

Visited 4 pubs in the city, Leicester Gateway to eat, Swan and Rushes, Ale Wagon and the Criterion.

Wednesday 9th May Correction

Please ignore the last two paragraphs of the previous entry, these apply to Thursday.

Moored for the night outside the Albion in Loughborough. They were still doing food so we ate there. Then we walked up the town arm, which is currently closed whilst building works are taking place, to the Swan in the Rushes, and finished in the Tap and Mallet.

Wednesday 9th May

Went to Sainsburys for some supplies then set off at about 9am. Stopped to empty the loo at Beeston lock.

Made a diversion at Trent Lock to go to Sawley. Filled up with fuel at Sawley marina 48p/l and turned round before we moored. Then we went to Harrington Arms for a short lunch.

I have never used the southern lock at Sawley so we used that on the way back. It has now been mechanised so is more popular now. This time we turned south at Trent Lock onto the River Soar.

Stopped for lunch at the Hope and Anchor, Syston, which is a Hungry Horse pub. Then on into Leicester where we moored on the secure pontoon at Castle gardens.

Visited 4 pubs in the city, Leicester Gateway to eat, Swan and Rushes, Ale Wagon and the Criterion.

Tuesday 8th May

We were up at 8am and set off to operate Town lock ourselves. The lock keeper arrived while we were doing this and he opened the top gates for us.

Made slow progress through the beautiful stretch to Gunthorpe. It was very windy with the occaisional squally shower. Moored in Gunthorpe on the secure pontoon, and went for lunch at Tom Browns. Just one course and a pint of real ale. I had chicken stuffed with black pudding served with bubble and squeak, which was excellent.

Pressed on in order to get to Nottingham. Moored on the Nottingham Canal near Sainsburys. Ate in the Canalhouse which is now owned by Tynemill, then on to the Newshouse which is also a Tynemill pub, then the Cock and Hoop and finally the Bell Inn.

Monday 7th May

Saw the boat moored ahead of us move into the basin so I went up to find out what was going on. The flood had started early and there were two narrowboats in the lock ready to go. I went back and we set off and the lock was almost ready for us when we got there. We got a new gas bottle and I also cancelled the booking that I'd made for the return trip in July. We were locked out on our own at about 10am.

The river was quite busy and we lost count of the number of boats that we saw. We cruised non stop and arrived at Cromwell lock at 4pm. Carried on through Nether lock and moored in Newark.

Went to eat in the Tynemill chain Fox and Crown, then on to the Mail Coach and the Castle and Falcon. Then tried the Castle, but that appeared to be shut, so we looked into Wetherspoons, but they didn't have any guest beers so we went back to the Fox and Crown.

Sunday 6th May

Set off from Retford at 9.20. On the outskirts of Retford I managed to drop my camera in the cut. It was in the pocket of my jacket. Fortunately I did bring my old camera with me so I've only lost a few pictures that I've taken yesterday.

Stopped for lunch at the Blacksmiths Arms in Clayworth. Had an excellent fresh Lobster and crab cannelonni.

Stopped for the night at West Stockwith. Moored further back than usual on the piling where there is no concrete shelf. Had a snack on board then to the Waterfront Inn for the evening, which was doing food.

Saturday

Delayed start from Shireoaks due to another boat setting off just before us. Further delays due to the new restrictors on the bottom gate paddles of all three locks at Shireoaks. Arrived in Worksop by 1pm and went for lunch in the Mallard. One of the two beers had been changed since last night so we had that. Only pint though, so that we would be away by 2pm.

Shortly after leaving Kilton lock we picked up a piece of carpet round the prop. I had a go with a Stanley knife until I managed to cut myself, into a vein in my arm. Having sorted that out, Ian had a go and managed to get the rest off, but he cut himself too.

Made good progress to West Retford and even crossed two boats coming the other way. One of them was the guy who followed me to West Stockwith last year hoping to buy Jacob. He asked again if I was selling.

Moored in our usual spot in West Retford and went to the new Wetherspoons, The Dominie Cross, to eat. Then on to the Brick and Tile to get away from the noise in Wetherspoons.

Friday

Arrived at Shireoaks by train at 14.19. Travellers have set up camp near the marina entrance.

Ian arrived on the 18.09, I went to meet him mainly so that I could get some milk and bread at the shop.

Went for fish and chips then to the Hewitt Arms for a couple of beers. There is a vintage rally there this weekend. There was an Aveling-Barford roller there, but it was a petrol one. After that we caught a train to Worksop for a few beers at the Mallard.

Sunday 16th July

Retford to Shireoaks

The final day.

Set off at 8.15 to get to Worksop for lunch. Only managing 2.5mph still, but the plan allows for this. Found the 1hr error in the plan where it says it takes 6 hours for Retford to Worksop and we usually do it in less than 4.5.

We took the full 5 hours to get to Worksop. Went to the Mallard for lunch but they didn't have any rolls so we bought sandwiches on the way back to the boat.

Final two hours up to Shireoaks in the
hottest day for a week.

Saturday 15th July

Gringley to Retford

Had a bit of a lie in as we only needed to get to Retford. Stopped by the furure Aldi store in Retford, to go for lunch in the Rum Runner before they stopped doing food at 2pm.

After that we moved on to my usual mooring in west Retford. Then we went to catch a train to Lincoln. Just missed the 1623 so we went to the Market Hotel to kill the hour wait for the next one.

Arrived in Lincoln just after 6. Went to the Jolly Brewer first, hoping to eat there. As they weren't doing food we then went to Wetherspoons. Then up Steep Hill past the cathedral and round the castle to the Strugglers Inn, and finally the Victoria, one of the two Tynemill pubs in Lincoln.

Caught the last train back and finished the evening in the Rum Runner.

Friday 14th July

Keadby to Gringley on the Hill

I got up at 7 to see the lock keeper when she came to talk to the other boats. They were going further upstream than us, and therefore leaving earlier. She said we would go at 10.20.

Although the new lock keepers building is no longer covered in scaffolding, it isn't finished, and the hydraulics were being operated manually.

A perfect day for a trip up the river, we had no spray on the deck this time. Arrived at West Stockwith at 11.20 which is when we had been told high water was. Locked in to rhe basin and filled up with fuel. Only managed to get £13 worth in, so I obviously didn't need to have filled up at Stanley Ferry.

Moored on the unused water point just outside the basin as suggested by the lock keeper. Went for lunch at the Waterfront Inn. As we weren't certain what food we might get In Gringley, we had a large lunch.

in the afternoon we carried on up the
Chesterfield Canal and moored above Gringley lock. Walked up the hill into the Gringley on the Hill to the Blue Bell. Here they had 4 cask ales and were doing food till 9pm. Unfortunately they only had large meals on the evening menu so we were forced to have one. Their chips were excellent home made ones.

Thursday 13th July

Pollington to Keadby

Woken up today at 7am by a fully laden barge going upstream from Goole. Got ready to set off in case another leisure boat appeared going down. We knew from a boater in the Bay Horse that there was one moored at Great Heck.

A narrowboat appeared and was given a green light by the lock keeper. We quickly got going ready to follow them in, but had the gates shut in our face. This was because another barge was coming upstream. After this had come through, the lock keeper let us through and then put the lock back to self operation.

Turned off the Aire and Calder onto the New Juction canal. We were surprised to find that Sykhouse lock was manned, and he set the lock for us. He told that a tanker from Doncaster was due, bound for Goole. Sure enough we crossed the tanker before the next lift bridge.

At Top Lane lift bridge the narrow boat that had been one mile ahead of us since the incident first thing, waited for us. We were then able to operate the next swing bridge for them.

Turned east onto the Stainforth and Keadby canal at Bramwith Junction.

Moored outside the canalside pub at Stainforth. Although they were doing food they do not have real ale, so we carried on to Thorne.

In Thorne we went to the Punch Bowl Inn where we had a dodgy pint of Old Mill Bitter and a starter off the specials board.

On the way back we popped into the Canal Tavern. Although this is no longer in the GBG, we had a very good pint of Adnams Broadside.

The new swing footbridge there is already playing up. On the advice of locals we had to reopen it slightly, then close it again, before the gates could be opened.

The next lift bridge was having its rams replaced, but this was more of a problem to road users, as they had the road blocked off for the day. We were only held up while they moved their workboat out of the way.

When we arrived at Vazon rail bridge I was surprised that the signalman came down to meet us. This was because he had bad new. Due to the heat sometimes the bridge doesn't close and they have to have an engineer there in case it doesn't.

Initially we were told that it would be an hour but it was over two hours, during which time two other boats had arrived. We eventualy got through at 8.30, just in time to get to the Auld Yorkshire before they stopped serving food at 9pm. However when we got there it was closed.

We the tried the the Barge. They had stopped doing food at 7.30 but they did show us menus from two takeaways in Scunthorpe that would deliver there. We chose the Chinese and had a pint of Pedigree while we waited.

We took the takeaway back to the boat. It wasn't very good but we shared a large bottle of white Chimay afterwards, and that was.

Wednesday 12th July

Leeds to Pollington

The canal basin is right next to the station, so I was woken up by a train at 5.30.

Arranged to share the big locks with a pair of boats who were going to Castleford. So we locked out onto the river and went down the the next lock to wait for them. To kill some time we had a pootle round Clarence Dock. One of the boats in the dock, Lion, was also going downtstream, so we locked down with them instead. At the next lock, another boat, a hire boat from Thorne, caught up, so we had three boats sharing down to Lemonroyd.

The owners of Lion said that they recognised Jacob. They live by the canal at Whitchurch, so they probably saw us last year. They had even done some fundraising for the Hope House hospice.

Stopped for lunch at Allerton Bywater. I could see from the river that the Victoria was closed, but more importantly the Boat was shut as well, and a third pub too. So we had lunch on board. The Boat used to be in the GBG and brew its own beer.

Pressed on through Castleford and glad to be off the boring section. We were overtaken by one barge near to Ferrybridge.

Stopped above Pollington lock. There are two pubs here both were supposed to have real ale and food. The first one depite the new sign by the canal was not doing food and we phoned the other and they don't dp food at all anymore. Then I phoned the Bay Horse in Great Heck two miles away ant they were and they gave me the number for a taxi in Rawcliffe. So we summoned a taxi. Had a good 2 course meal there, washed down with some Old Mill bitter.

Walked back to Pollington. Checked out the other pub in Great Heck on the way, but that wasn't open at all.

Tuesday 11th July

Wakefield to Leeds

Left Wakefield at about 9 and through Fall Ings lock onto the Aire and Calder. This should be our last manual lock for a while, also there will be no more short locks.

Arrived at Castleford to find the lights on the flood lock on red, and a sand barge was coming through to go to Whitwood. After it, and a couple of narrow boats had come through, we were allowed through and moored with two other boats west of the coal chute.

Went to the Griffin for lunch, but it was shut, so we went on to Wetherspoons.

After lunch we turned round and headed up the River Aire for Leeds. This is very boring stretch.

In Leeds there wasn't really room in Clarence Dock so we carried on to the canal basin.

Went to the Scarborough Hotel and had a meal there. Then to Whitelocks First City Luncheon Bar which is down an alley off Briggate, and Tom Tom doesn't know where it is. This pub is in the national inventoryand is one of the oldest in Leeds. Here we saw the Landlord of the New Beehive and his daughter, who stayed and chatted with us for quite a while.

Then to the Baroque, which is a conversion from a bank or something, and appeared to be an Okells house.

Then on to the Victoria Family and Commercial. They had called time when we left, just after 11, so we went just up the road to the George. Peering through the windows there weren't any interesting beers so carried on back towards the boat to try and find the Wetherspoons. As we couldn't find it we carried on and found that the Scarborough Hotel was still open.

Monday 10th July

Huddersfield to Wakefield

Decided to do a long day to get to Wakefield for the evening. After a visit to Sainsburys we set off down the Huddersfield Broad Canal for Cooper Bridge. Here we turned right to go down the Calder and Hebble.

Stopped for lunch at the Navigation in Mirfield but their restaurant was not open. So after a pint we went back to the boat for a cheese sandwich.

At Dewsbury we did not do the town branch to save time.

Moored In Wakefield near the reidential moorings near Fall Ings lock again. We went first to Fernades Brewery Tap to see what that was like. It reminded me of the Leggers at Dewsbury. Then to Wetherspoons for a meal, and then to Harrys Bar. This was rather disappointing so we went back to Fernandes, where we had an excellent stout of theirs.

Sunday 9th July

Slaithwaite to Huddersfield

Got up at 8 ready for an 8.30 start, but we were beaten to it by the boat moored behind us. As there were only two of them we were on their tail all the way. Then they got something round their prop and noticed a problem with their engine, so we overtook them at lock 12.

Had the same trouble as on the way up in the pound between locks 7 and 8, we got stuck just outside the lock and had to let some water down.

In Huddersfield we went to the Albert Hotel for a late lunch, then on to The Head of Steam to see Ian off. Sure enough the beer in there is not as good as in the Station Tavern, but it is more inviting.

Retired to the boat for a while then out again for some more to eat in Wetherspoons. Finally we went to The Rat and Ratchet.

Saturday 8th July

Marsden to Slaithwaite

My birthday.

Got ready for an 8am start but there was no sign of activity then. At 8.45 the two boats that had come through the tunnel yesterday came down from the tunnel end for a 9am start down the locks. We went first and made good progress, 2 hours to the bottom of the first 11 locks. Here we had coffee and moored temporarily to wait for the other two boats to pass so that we could ground ourselves near the next lock. After one boat had passed, and the other moored to the railings where we were, we moved down and moored near the end of the footpath down from the Olive Branch. We actually managed to get a pin in-between two stones for the front and attach a rope to an overflow at the rear.

Adrian and Elliot arived at 12.15 whilst I was cooking Eggs Benedict (alsmost). After lunch we carried on down to Slaithwaite, which only took another 2 hours.

After a cup of tea, Adrian and Elliot got a taxi back to their car, which they had left at the Olive Branch.

We started our evening with a pint in the Wharfside, then took a taxi to the Olive Branch. Here we had an excellent 3 course meal accompanied by their house beer, Holme Valley Bitter from the Upper Agbrigg brewery near Holmfirth.

Then we got a taxi to the Sair Inn, Linthwaite to sample some of their beers. We started with Dark Mild which was only £1.40 a pint! While we were there there was a local power cut and candles were brought out, no draught lagers were then served. We walked back to the boat from there.

Friday 7th July

Marsden to Standedge Tunnel End and back.

Got up early to go and see if there was room for us to go through the tunnel as passengers. As one of the boats had two dogs, they had to take them another way, so there was room for us. We started through at about 9.20 and it took 3 hours. Was quite glad that we hadn't been able to take Jacob through last year due to the worry about damage.

Uncle Eric and Pat met us at Diggle and we went to the Diggle Hotel for lunch, I had wild Boar steak. Then they took us back to Marsden. In order to turn Jacob round we went up to the visitor centre to wind and then backed into the tunnel end wharf to empty the toilet. While I was doing that Ben got out the width guage and agreed that Jacob was officially too wide.

Moored back at Marsden.

Went to eat aagin at the Tunnel End Inn, then back to the boat to await Dais arrival by train.

Went back to the Tunnel End Inn while it was still light then into town to go to the Riverhead Brewery Tap.

Had a look in Oliver Street at the building used for Aunty Wainwrights shop in Last of the Summer Wine. It obviously used to be a shop, but being in the back streets it hasn't survived as such.

Thursday 6th July

Slaithwaite to Marsden

Up at 8 ready for 8.30, but the boat in front beat us to it and went first. The first section through Slaithwaite has some single file sections, due to it having been filled in after closure.

Passed the Empire brewery next to the lock in Slaithwaite with the guillotine bottom gate. We've yet to see any of their beers for sale.

Made good progress but were surprised to find that all the locks were empty. This turned out to be due to most of the bottom lock gates leaking.

Arrived at the appointed place, which is the last winding hole before Marsden and there is also a reservoir here . There was only one other boat here when we arrived.

Walked to the Olive Branch on the main road, which is now more of a restaurant than a pub, although they had one beer on a handpump it didn't seem to on. We had a starter for lunch as we only had 45 minutes. The portion was large and we were given bread with it so we were satisfied, and the quality was very good.

Headed back to the boat in time for our escorted passage up the last 11 locks. The second lock is very narrow and Ben, who was our escort, paid careful attention. He suggested that having got through that we must be able to fit through the tunnel.

This last section of canal is very pretty and we got through without any serious problems. We moored at the top, half under the minor road bridge by Marsden station. We were told that we could move up to the tunnel mouth moorings at 4pm, which is when the visitor centre closes.

Andrew arrived by car shortly after.
Later we walked up the canal to get to The Tunnel End Inn. When we heard a train go over the canal near the tunnel we decided that we would not want to spend the night there.

We heard from another boater who had already spent a night there, that although the Tunnel End Inn didn't advertise food on a Thurday evening, if you asked and she realised that you were a boater, they would do something for you. Sure enough when we did we were offered most things off the menu. To make her life easier we all opted for the Steak and Ale Pie.

Then we went to have a look round the town. We found the Riverhead Brewery Tap, which had a large selection of its own beers. Later on in the evening what sounded like the local Morris band was rehearsing upstairs.

Wednesday 5th July

Huddersfield to Slaithwaite

Proceeded up the Huddersfield Narrow canal through the section that had been filled in and is now made navigabl by moving two locks and having two tunnels under factories.

Ran aground below lock 8 and had to let water down from the pound above.

Tried to stop for lunch at Golcar. First we tried below lock 13, but it was too rocky, then above lock 14, but it was impossible to get mooring pins in the towpath.. We settled for running aground above lock 14 and having lunch on board as we were not expecting any boats to pass.

Carried on and moored on the 48hr moorings above lock 21 in Slaithwaite. This lock is another one that has been moved to al passage under a new brige.

Not having any information about the pubs here, we found that the nearest pub, the Wharfside Inn, was a Skipton brewery pub, had 4 of their beers on and was doing food so that kept us amused for the evening.

Tuesday 4th July

Dewsbury to Huddersfield

Late start due to a late night. We started by filling up with diesel, which is only 50p/l and will almost certainly be more expensive further on.

Stopped for an early lunch at Mirfield in the Navigation Tavern. This is in the Good Beer Guide and their restaurant did us a very good sandwich, at a price.

After that we carried on up to Cooper Bridge where we turned on to the Huddersfield Broad canal, and into Huddersfield. Moored opposite Sainsburys. Went into town to the Albert Hotel. They had stopped doing food as they had a function on, so after a pint there we went to Wetherspoons to eat. After that we went to the Station Tavern and then to the Rat and Ratchet. This in an Ossett bresery pub with 6 of their beers.

On the way back we manged to get onto the towpath west of Bates tunnel. We found some notices on lock 1 about a water shortage and made a note of a number to ring.

Monday 3rd July

Castleford to Dewsbury

Awoke to find that the water level had gone up overnight due to the thunderstorms last night. A sand barge set off at 8, so we followed him up to the flood lock, expecting it to be in use as a lock, however it was open. Although the level in the river was in the amber section of the strong stream warning board, the level was dropping. So we proceeded through and up the river Aire.

The barge we had followed out of Castleford we found later unloading at Whitwood Wharf. We arrived at Woodnook lock to find another boat waiting to come down as there was no mains power to the lock due to the thunderstorms last night. After only a short delay power was restored.

Passed through the old aqueduct over the River Calder at Stanley Ferry, then stopped briefly at the sanitary station.

Moored near the residential moorings in Wakefield. Went into town to find the Fernandes Brewery Tap, however this is not open most lunchtimes, so went on to the Six Chimneys (Wetherspoons) to eat. Then we went to the Talbot & Falcon, but that was closed today. We then went to find Harrys Bar, which is tricky as it's down an alley, but that doesn't open at lunchtime either. We then went back to Wetherspoons. On the way there we I bought a new airbed at Argos, and some short sleeve shirts in Marks and Spencer to cope with hot weather.

After our long lunch break we carried on to Dewsbury where we moored at the end of the arm. There were no BW moorings here but the boatyard here were happy to let us use one of their vacant berths.

Had our first pint in the Leggers Arms which is at the the basin, then on to Wetherspoons to eat. After that we went to the West Riding Licensed Refreshment rooms at the station. There was a quiz on so we sat on the platform.

Sunday 2nd July

Had a bit of a lie in as we only needed to get to Castleford. Set off through the open flood lock and up the Aire to Ferrybridge. Here we joined the Aire and Calder. As it was Sunday there were no commercial boats. There were however quite a few pleasure boats and we shared Bulholm lock at Castleford with three other boats. Then at Castleford there were boats everywhere. We moored on the first visitor moorings by the coal chute where there was already one other boat moored on what is normally a deserted mooring.

Walking into town for a late lunch we saw a poster for the Castleford Riverside Festival on the 2nd July.

Had lunch at Wetherspoons then on to the Shoulder of Mutton. We picked up a copy of the Wakefield CAMRA magazine which turned out to be produced by Tetley Dave, the landlord.

Back to the boat for a few hours. Topped up the batteries which are now losing even more water than usual due to the new fridge.

On the way into town for the evening we stopped at the Griffin, then on to Wetherspoons to eat again. As it rained we stayed put.

Saturday 1st July

Set off at 8am in order to be at Barmby for 11am. Yet another chance to admire all the dead sheep in the river.

We let two other boats overtake on our way down to Barmby, both were also going to Selby. The wide beam boat locked out first, then we locked out with the relatively narrow old wooden cruiser.

When we arrived at Selby the tide was still ebbing at 12. The cruiser was keen to go into the lock at slack water, so we hung around for a while until the cruiser had gone in and then followed him.

The cruiser stopped at the facilities so we carried on to Selby boat centre, where I wanted to buy some rope. They didn't have the right type of rope but I did get some grease, and we fillled up with water.

Carried on, having lunch on board on the way, to moor outside a defunct pub. Walked down the A19 to the pub in Burn, which is in the Good Beer Guide. After that we carried on to moor at the junction with the River Aire. The flood lock here was open this time.

Walked to the George and Dragon in West Haddesley to eat. The final England match was still being played when we arrived. After that we walked to the Jug in Chapel Haddesley, which is in the Good Beer Guide. Here the tennis was being projected onto a sheet.

Friday 30th June

Set off at 7am in order to be at Barmby for 10am as requested. Rang Selby lock and left a message that we were going there today, in case Barmby Barrage had not done so.

Arrived at Barmby by 10am but were told we couldn't go till 11am. Another boat which had been due to go out at 10, in order to get to Naburn, eventually arrived at high speed at 10.50.

I had not heard from Selby and Barmby had not been able to raise them today, so we waited as long as we could before admitting defeat and having to stay another day on the Derwent.

Walked into Barmby village to check that the pub really was shut at lunchtime, which it was, and back to the boat yet again for another sandwich.

Headed back up river for another night at Thorganby.

Thursday 29th June

Left Melbourne on what looks like being a glorious day.

Made good progress down the Pocklington, then turned right onto the Derwent. Passing the Ferryboat Inn it looked like it was no longer a pub. Shortly after that we hit a partly submerged branch which we thought was a sign of things to come, but it didn't get any worse and we made it in good time to Sutton lock. We had been advised not to try to get through this lock and it was evident that one of the bottom gates has a cracked vertical. As the lock was open we moored inside and went for lunch at the Grey Horse, Elvington.

Headed back downstream to the junction with the canal and managed to moor on the west side so that we could get to Thorganby.

Still thinking that the Ferry Inn was no more, we took the footpath to Thorganby to find the pub in the village. This turned out to have changed into an Indian restaurant. We went inside and they had Copper Dragon IPA on handpump, and it was good. So despite having had a large meal at lunchtime we stayed for a meal and some more beer.

After that we walked back via the road past the Ferry Inn and discovered that it is still functioning, so we went inside for even more beer.

Wednesday 28th June

Up by 7am ready to catch the tide. Heard on the VHF that a barge was going to be using Victoria lock at 8, so I called up hoping to go out with them. However we were told to use Ocean Lock, which is the biggest one, all on our own.

As there was no delay it meant we were out on the river too early and were doing up to 8mph without trying. Made it to Barmby in 1 1/2 hours and the tide was still running fast across the entrance to Barmby Barrage. The lock keeper said we should be OK if we took it slowly.

As we turned into the entrance we grounded on some underwater obstruction, but after a few minutes we started to move again and got into the lock safely. We were lowered about 5 feet to the River Derwent and went on to moor at the waiting pontoon. I went back to get our River Derwent certificate which is valid for a year. (The Derwent is managed by the Environment Agency).

Made good progress in the deep water and moored in a field near the Breighton Ferry pub. However this turned out to be closed, so we walked into the village of Breighton to find the other pub, but this had disappeared and been replaced with new houses. So back to the boat for lunch.

We carried on up the river and, after we made contact with the Melboune Arms to check that they were doing food this evening, we decided to turn off onto the Pocklington Canal and stop at Melbourne.

The first lock on the canal was in very poor condition with very leaky gates. After that the canal became very weedy, and towards the second lock I was having to throw weed off the prop every 100yds and still struggling to do 2mph. After the second lock the canal was much better, and all the swing bridges were in good condition.

Arrived at Melboune where a trip boat was setting out. They suggested that we moor on one of the, very short, finger pontoons, as they wanted to use the visitors mooring upon their return.

The pub only had John Smiths which was not quite as good as yesterdays, but the food was very good. Having seen the sweet menu and seen some being delivered to other customers, we both decided to have the Chocolate Torte with Cherry compote.

We finished the evening by going back to the boat for a bottle of decent beer and to plan for tomorrow.

Tuesday 27th June

Left Thorne at 8.30. Turned right at Bramwith junction onto the New Junction Canal. It may be dead straight for 6 miles, but at least there are lots of automated lift and swing bridges to play with.

Another boat set off as we approached Sykehouse lock so we shared that and went through the next two lift bridges together. There was also a single handed boat waiting to come through Sykehouse lift bridge so we let him through.

Turned right onto the Aire & Calder towards Goole. We stopped for lunch at Rawcliffe Bridge. The pub by the canal was shut, so walked to the Rawcliife Bridge Hotel where had some surprisingly good John Smiths. Got some milk in the Post Office/Garage and went back to Jacob for a sandwich.

Carried on to Goole where we moored outside the sanitary station. Ian went to the waterways museum which is now free.

Walked through the docks to get to Aire street, where we found the Macintosh Arms. Had a nice pint of Tetleys Imperial there, then went on to the Wetherspoons for something to eat. When we arrived they only had guest beers on, and there were 7 of them! We both had something off the Grill night menu as we were able to have any beer we wanted to go with it.

Monday 26th June

Batteries only down to 89% this morning, they were 84 yesterday. Perhaps the Smart Gauge is still learning.

Moved into West Stockwith basin ready to lock out. One boat locked in and there was only one other boat locking out with us. Swan from Battyford was also going to Keadby. Topped up with 40l of diesel and got a replacement gas cylinder.

We were out on the river at 10.10 and picked up speed as the ebb started to run. Very choppy and quite a swell in places where the wind was against the current. The front deck and windows were wetter than ever before and there was also more than ever before in the bath.

Arrived at Keadby 2 hours later, it's 12.5 miles. Had more trouble than before turning to face the current to go into the lock probably due to the big tide.

Keadby lock is now completely mechanised but they are still building the new lock keepers hut.

The Auld Yorkshire at Keadby is shut on Mondays so we had to go to the Barge for a poor pint of Tetleys. They were not doing food so we returned to the boat for a homemade sandwich.

Set off for Thorne, but had to wait about 25 minutes for the Vazon sliding rail bridge which was busy, and all the trains were going over it at walking pace.

In Thorne we moored on the secure moorings at the sanitary station where Swan had also stopped. We went to the Windmill which we had seen mentioned in Donny Drinker as having got Doncasters Pub of Season award. They had three real ales but no food. We had the Adnams bitter which they ruined by using a sparkler.

Then we went to the Punch Bowl Inn which is an Old Mill Brewery hotel. We had a reasonable meal and tried all three Old Mill beers that were on.

Sunday 25th June

Set off at 8.35. The pumping station which we had noticed last night was still filling up the canal from the river Idle, despite the fact that the canal is full and the river is low.

Stopped at Clayworth for lunch at the Blacksmiths Arms, which was very good, followed by another pint in the Brewers Arms. Dropped into the Retford and Worksop Boat Club on the way back to enquire about River Idle cruises. Their next one is next year but will be for members only and membership is expensive.

Moored outside West Stockwith basin for the night. Ate on board then went to the Waterfront Inn for beer.

Saturday 24th June

Ian arrived by train at 9.15 and we set off for Worksop about half an hour later. Made good progress due to most of the locks being full, but we were delayed when we got stuck coming out of Haggonfield lock. There was a piece of wood behind the gate so it wasn't fully open and this was enough to jam Jacob.

Lunch in the Mallard then on to west
Retford for the night. Went to the Market Hotel first to eat despite it no longer being the Good Beer Guide. They had 7 beers on however the one that I had wasn't quite right, but not bad enough to reject. Then to the Rum Runner for the rest of the evening. This was surprisingly empty, maybe as a result of the new licencing laws, as they were still open when we left.

Friday 23rd June

Decided to paint the inside of the galley doors. I've only had the paint 5 or 6 years.

General putting things back together, tidying up and cleaning in preparation for departure tomorrow.

Thursday 22nd June

Arrived last night for what should be my longest continuous stay on Jacob yet, 26 days and nights. It will also be the longest time that Jacob hasn't moved, over 10 months.

Fitted my new SmartGuage battery monitor, then changed the engine oil and fitted new oil, fuel and air filters.

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!