Thursday October 7th

Atherstone to Hinkley

Had a later start today. It was misty all morning until the sun broke through.

Up the last 5 locks at Atherstone stopping at Spring Haven marina to buy engine oil, then stopped for lunch in Nuneaton. Went to the Globe, which sounded the best of the 3 GBG pubs, and it was well worth the walk. On the way back to the boat we popped into Gregs for food and bread, and another shop for milk.

South of Nuneaton we turned onto the Ashby canal. We passed Gosty Hill near bridge 15. In Hinckley we moored just past bridge 16.

Walked into town for a curry in Wetherspoons then on to the New Plough Inn. As they only had one guest ale to supplement the obligatory Marstons choice, we decided to try the Black Horse which has cask marque approval. We had a nice pint of fresh Jennings there before heading back via Wetherspoons.

Wednesday October 6th

Whittington to Atherstone

Left early to get to Polesworth for lunch. However I later decided to stop early to avoid Polesworth and try the Gate Inn by bridge 69. We were able to moor right outside. They had Banks Mild and were doing 2 meals for £8.

After lunch we carried on and up the first 6 locks at Atherstone. Once again we were able to make use of the side pond at lock 6.

In Atherstone we went to the Kings Head to eat then to the Market Tavern where the Warwickshire beers were cloudy. After that we tried the New Dolphin and finally walked out to the Bear and Ragged Staff, which is also now owned by the Warwickshire brewery.

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Tuesday 5th October

Carried on up the Birmingham and Fazeley onto the detached section of the Coventry canal and stopped just short of Bradley junction. Went for lunch in the Swan, I had belly pork stuffed with black pudding.

After lunch we winded at the junction and headed south again stopping for the night at Whittington. The Swan near the canal had closed for good on September 11th. There are two other pubs, one of which does food, but we decided to catch a bus into Lichfield to sample some of the pubs there.

In Lichfield we went to The Bowling Green to eat then on to the The Duke of Wellington, sampled the Backyard Brewery 'The Hoard' at the Horse and Jockey then finally to the Duke of York.

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Monday 4th October

Woken at 7am by the quarry workings but we had decided to leave at 8 anyway to make it to Polesworth for lunch.

On the way down Atherstone locks we were able to make use of the side pond at lock 6 which had been restored last year.

Polesworth was disappointing as usual. The Fosters Yard Hotel didn't appear to have any real ale so we went to the Bulls Head where we had a pint but they weren't doing food. So we went to the Royal Oak where we had another pint but they weren't doing food either. After lunch on board we set off again.

Moored in Fazeley for the night. Walked into Tamworth where we ate in the Globe Inn. After that we went to the Sir Robert Peel, The Silk Kite and back to the Robert Peel.

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Sunday 3rd October

Rain all day but not heavy. Passed Draco towing Success shortly after setting off.

Stopped at Sutton stop for lunch at the Greyhound where the evening menu was in force. Very cold pint of Theakstons again as last year but the Chicken, Bacon and Mushroom pasta was very good.

After lunch we went through the stop lock and up the Coventry canal through Nuneaton and on to the Anchor Inn near Hartshill. This has been removed from the GBG due to a change in landlord but its still an Everards pub and had Everards Beacon, Tiiger and Original plus York Centurion Ghost as a guest. They stop serving food at 4pm on a Sunday so we had a snack on board.

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Saturday 2nd October

Arrived at the marina at 1645. Ian arrived shortly after and we set off after filling up with water.

Only went as far as Brinklow for the choice of 3 pubs and the chance to walk along a section of the original canal still in water.

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Sunday 12th July

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Wednesday 17th June

Wakefield to Leeds

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.

Monday 15th June

Sowerby Bridge to Brighouse

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.

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.

Saturday 13th June

Summit to Todmorden

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sunday 20th July

Newbold to Brinklow Marina

Very short morning, just to get back to the marina. Was presented with my electricity bill on arrival. Car started OK.

Stopped on the A45 in Willoughby to see what was left of the Braunston and Willoughby station on the old Great Central Railway. Stopped in Rushden to visit the Rushden Transport Museum at the old station. The bar was very busy and the barman was not very friendly because we'd come in the wrong door and not passed the signing in book. We eventually got served when there was no one else that he could serve instead. Although I wasn't expecting to get food there, they do normally in a carriage outside, but not this weekend. We were also disappointed to find that none of the indoor exhibits were open. So we had a look round the outdoor exhibits and left, glad that that we hadn't made too much effort to get there.

Drove down to Luton where I dropped Peter off at Luton Parkway station. Then to finish off my holiday I went to Someries Castle which is threatened by the expansion of Luton airport.

Saturday 19th July

Long Buckby to Newbold

8am start today. Because it was early in the day we could see right through Braunston tunnel, and we only met one boat coming the other way.

After that it started to get busy going down the locks at Braunston, and for the rest of the day.

Moored for lunch right outside the Royal Oak, Hillmorton. It's now a Hungry Horse pub but does have Cask Marque accreditation so the beer was good even if it was only Green King IPA and Abott.

Shortly after lunch we passed Kyamanzi from Brinklow marina, so the school holidays must have started in the area.

Moored for the night at Newbold. Due the nature of the bank I had to use the two 'tyre' fenders as spacers and springs at both ends.

Went to the Crown for a meal, which was disappointing compared to their sunday lunch, and especially after some excellent meals we've had elsewhere.

Friday 18th July

Gayton to Long Buckby

Late start this morning. Stopped at bridge 32 to fill up with fuel at Fred
Tarrys, only 88p/l!

Stopped for lunch at The Narrowboat, Stowe Hill, where we had a two course meal.

After lunch carried on and up through Bucky locks but moored for the night in the pound below the top lock. Had a snack on board then watched some of the first nights prom before going to the New Inn which now has Cask Marque accreditation.

Thursday 17th July

Billing Aquadrome to Gayton

Set off at 840. When we got to Billing lock there were 2 boats just going up. The pound above the lock which was quite low yesterday had now filled up. By the time we were in the lock Orchid II appeared and joined us. We shared locks as far as the sanitary station in Northampton where they stopped.

Went through the first lock onto the canal to moor and went for lunch in the Malt Shovel.

After lunch we set off up the locks to Gayton junction where I emptied the loo and then turned north on the Grand Union.

Moored near the footpath to Gayton. Walked into Gayton for a very good meal in the Queen Victoria. After that we tried the Eytyn Arms which is more of a locals pub and only had GK IPA.

Wednesday 16th July

Irtlingborough to Billing Aquadrome

Set off at 8am. When we got to Wollaston lock there was an insurance inspection going on, so we were held up for half an hour. By this time Lady Mary appeared and we shared locks for the rest of the day.

We had lunch on board on the move and went as far as Billing where we moored on the visitor moorings in the Aquadrome.

Walked to Weston Favell to the Bold Dragoon where we had good food and beer. We got a taxi back to the Aquadrome.

Tuesday 15th July

Wadenhoe to Irthlingborough

Set off at 915am, not long after Star. Caught them up at the next lock and we shared locks until Woodford where we moored below the church as before.

Went to the shop first this time before it closed for lunch at 130. Then to the Dules Arms for lunch.

Today was hot and sunny all day for a change.

Carried on as far as Irtlingborough where there is plentiful mooring space by the Doc Martins leisure centre and Rushton Diamonds ground.

Walked into Intrlinborough where several pubs had been turned into Chinese or Indian restaurants. We only found 2 pubs and we had some London Pride in the Oliver Twist. Then we went to Tesco Express to get provisions for tomorrows lunch. Then back to the boat for a light meal.

Monday 14th July

Fotheringhay to Wadenhoe

Left at 9am, just after the boat that had been moored in front, so that we could share locks.

Moored above Ashton lock again and walked to the Chequered Skipper for lunch.

When we got back to the boat Lodestar was moored behind us. This will probably be the last time that we see them.

On the way upstream we saw a Red Kite.

At Wadenhoe where we had to back down the millstream to the end of the garden of the Kings Head to the last free space.

Walked round the village to find the post office which was shut, for a year we later discovered.

Went into the Kings Head to eat.

Sunday 13th

Wansford Station to Fotheringhay

Went to have a look round the Nene Valley Railways base at Wansford.

Back tothe boat to let out the boat that was moored inside of us. Then back to the station and caught the 1140 to Yarwell then back through Wansford to Peterborough and finally back to Wansford.

Had a snack in the tea bar then set off up river. Moored for the night at Fotheringhay castle mound and went to eat in the Falcon. Unfortunately being a Sunday in summer they were only doing a barbeque, but it was good.

Saturday 12th July

Whittelsey to Wansford Station

Slept well till 5am when hordes of youths went by on the towpath.

Set off at 830 to be at Stanground lock for 1000.

When we got to the Nene we turned to go downstream to go as far as Dog in a Doublet lock where the Nene becomes tidal. Turned round there and back up to Peterborough. Here Paul and Andrew had brought Peter by car.

Went for a Thai lunch with real ale in Charters barge. After that John and Gavin left with Paul and Andrew, and Peter joined me for the final week.

We headed upstream for Wansford. There was canoeing activity below the first lock so that made getting into the lock interesting. The second and third locks were overflowing so much that we did not need to open any paddles to fill them.

At Wansford station there was one narrowboat, Maybe, on the new pontoon so we went alongside them.

Went to the station where there was a private party goung on, but they allowed us to buy sandwiches which we took back to the boat to eat.

Later we went for a walk to explore Stibbington and to look at the possibility of getting to the Sibson Inn on the other side of the A1. However we decided this was not a good idea.

Friday 11th July

Stonea to Whittelsey

Unfortunately there were trains all through the night so our sleep was rather disturbed.

Set off after 830am and went all the way down the Twent foot as far as where Old Pophams Eau goes off to Nordelph. This looked very narrow and weedy and navigation down the rest of the Twenty foot to Mullicourt Aqueduct is not advised so we turned round and back to the new bit of Pophams Eau to get back onto the Link Route and head for March.

Moored in March and went for lunch in the Acre. After that we emptied the loo at the sanitary station and the called in Foxs marina for fuel and water. They wanted to charge £1.10/l but because I'd been quoted £1.00 on the phone I got away that that.

Ashline lock was against us as a hire boat had just gone through. They moored by another boat on the official mooring but I decided to carry on and moor where we had coming the other way.

Had a snack on board then we went to the Bricklayers Arms and then on to the Boat which we had visited 3 weeks ago.

Thursday 10th July

Holme to Stonea

Set off at 830 and passed Monks Lode and Great Raveley Drain, then at Nightingale Corner we turned towards Exhibition bridge. The air draught guage said 1.5m and we need 1.8m so we turned and backed up to it just to prove that we couldn't get through. We saw 3 MLC weed control boats heading that way.

Back through Lodes End lock where the water levels were equal ,then at Wells Bridge we turned onto the Forty Foot Drain.

At the third attempt we moored so that we could walk into Chatteris and go to the Walk the Dog pub. Here they had two good beers and we had a snack to go with them.

On the way back to the boat we popped into the Co-Op. Then we carried on along the Forty Foot to the junction with the Sixteen Foot Drain. I had been hoping to go down as far as Horseway Lock but it was too narrow to turn and also shallow and we had difficulty backing out.

So we went down the Sixteen Foot and managed to moor by the railway bridge at Stonea. Here the Golden Lion had 2 ales and food so we ate there.

Wednesday 9th July

March to Holme

Went shopping in Tesco Express first thing then set off at 7.45.

At Floods Ferry we carried on the old course of the River Nene through Benwick. Then we turned up High Lode to Ramsey where we turned round and backed up beyond the turning place as there was already a narrowboat on the one mooring. Went to the Jolly Sailor for a pint, then bought lunch in the bakery opposite and took it back to the boat.

Set off again and turned left at the end of High Lode and through Lodes End Lock. Then at Nightingale Corner we turned off the old course of the River Nene and up New Dyke to Holme. We initially stopped at the point where the OS map shows the end of navigation, but after consulting the other information we carried on almost as far as the east coast mainline. Here there was room to turn and we moored.

Walked to the Admiral Wells where I had booked a table for 7pm. They had 5 beers on but they were all quite similar. We all ordered the Guinea Fowl but they only had one left, so two of us were unlucky.

Tuesday 8th July

Denver to March

Walked to Denver windmill and had a look round.

Narrowboat Potjie moved across to the lock mooring. We went round past the sailing club to empty the loo, then back round to join Potjie.
The high tide was late today and Potjie went into the lock just before 1pm. They crossed with another narrowboat coming from Salters
Lode. After they were through the sluice it was our turn to go. Made an almost perfect turn and entry to Salters Lode.

Pressed on through Outwell and Upwell and through Marchmont Lock to get to March for the night.

There was plenty of room to moor in March. Two boats did arrive after us but had dissappeared later on.

Checked out the menu in The Acre pub but decided to try the Oliver Cromwell Hotel instead. They had 4 interesting beers in good condition, we tried all of them between the three of us, and the food was excellent. After that we went to the Rose and Crown only to find that it has closed down since my visit less than three weeks ago! So we went for a final drink in the Acre.

Monday 7th July

Brandon Creek to Denver via Whittington

Left the Ship moorings at 7.20. Turned off the Ouse and into the River Wisseyand soon passed Lodestar moored on the GOBA moorings.

The Wissey is unusual in that it starts narrow, then after Hilgay it widens. We turned round at the limit of navigation using Stingside drain. Then we moored at the Whittington caravan park. Walked into Stoke Ferry and to the Blue Bell Inn. Unfortunately they weren't doing food, despite the sign outside which applies from next week. So we just had a drink and headed back for the boat.

Set off as soon as we got back to avoid having to pay £4 for staying more than an hour and had lunch on the move.

Moored at Hilgay. Went to check out the 2 pubs and restaurant, but now there is only one pub which only does Sunday lunch. So we set off again for Denver.

Moored on the EA moorings near the Jenyns Arms and which we had checked was doing food. Had a good meal there then had a look at the sluice at low tide.

Sunday 6th July

Cambridge to Brandon Creek

Left Cambridge at 705am. The first lock was with us but the second was against us.

Stopped to try to get fuel at Bridge Boatyard in Ely but they were shut. Carried on to Ely marina instead. There were some raft races on, but they were further downstream. After topping up with fuel and water we went back upstream to the vacant mooring we had seen. However this was taken up by a plastic boat so we moored alongside another narrowboat.

Went to eat in the Cutter. They were busy but they squeezed us in. After that Gavin and John went up to the Cathedral in the rain and I went back to the boat to listen to my CDs of the Organ.

Set off downstream again at 1620, stopping to empty the loo then on to the EA mooring by the Ship, which is shallow.

After watching some of the Wimbledon mens final we went to the Ship to eat.

Saturday 5th July

Cambridge

Dave left to catch a bus to the station at 9am to start his long journey home.

John arrived with Paul by car at 11. Steam narrowboat President arrived and moored below the lock. Later John and Paul went off to collect Gavin, and when they returned we had lunch in the Boat House pub nearby.

Walked into town to do some shopping. After returning to Jacob I had a look round the exhibition on Georgina, mainly as a chance to look round the boat.

After watching Doctor Who we went for a snack in the Boat House then on to the Castle.

Friday 4th July

Reach to Cambridge

Left Reach shortly after 7am and back down to the Cam where we turned upstream for Cambridge. We were surprised to find all the locks fully push button operated. Saw President and Kildare moored at Waterbeach.

In Cambridge there was plenty of mooring space left below Jesus Lock. Went for lunch at the Castle pub then on to the Champion of the River.

In the afternoon I went for a swim in Jesus Green pool, which claims to be the longest open air pool in the country at 100 yards.

For dinner we had booked a table at Loch Fyne where we had the 2 course meal with a glass of wine for £11.

After that we went to the Live and Let Live and later to the Cambridge Blue.

Thursday 3rd July

Littleport to Reach

Left Littleport at 715. Stopped to empty the loo at Ely.

At Popes Corner we took the left branch onto the River Cam and up to Upware. Here we turned off and into Reach Lode lock. This a short lock, 63ft max.

After that we turned off Reach Lode into Wicken Lode. As we were about to turn a cruise came out of it, and was able to tell us that there were no other boats up there. Wicken Lode is narrow and lined with Water Lilies. Turned round at the junction and back to Reach Lode.

Then we turned back up Reach Lode and then off onto Burwell Lode. The moorings at Burwell were full so we did not stop. We turned round and headed back to Reach Lode, which we followed to the end at Reach. Here we managed to moor on what were supposed to be GOBA moorings, but the only evidence of that was one sign.

After 6pm we walked into the village to the Devils Dyke pub which has its own brewery. It was a good job that we were early as everyone that arrived after us was told that they were fully booked for food. The menu looked very good and the food was excellent, so we had a three course meal. We were also able to try two of their own beers. Unfortunately the seasonal IPA ran out before we could try it.

Wednesday 2nd July

Ely to Littleport via Judes Ferry

Left at 7am and headed downstream to the River Lark junction where we turned onto it. Made it as far as Judes Ferry where we winded and headed back. We had lunch on the move.

When we got back to the Ouse we turned right to to Littleport. After checking all the moorings we ended up on the Black Horse pub moorings. We went in to check the beer but they only had Adnams which wasn't perfect. However the menu had some interesting Austrian dishes.

Went back to eat there early evening. I had Austrian Liver Dumpling soup and a Beef Goulash.

After that we wemt to check out the other two pubs. The one in the town centre was shut and the roadhouse pub only had mediocre GK IPA. So it was back to the Black Horse for a final pint, admiring the Harley Davidson sculpture on the way.

Tuesday 1st July

Stretham to Ely

Another hot and sunny day, I even put my shorts on first thing! Left at 8.25 for Ely. Stopped for fuel at Bridge Boatyard, which is only £1 a litre, but they don't take plastic.

Moored in the park again.

Went to the Prince Albert for lunch. Andy left us here to catch a train home.

After lunch we did the Cathedral. I paid £11.80 for the full monty, Cathedral, Lantern tower and stained glass museum.

The tour of the Lantern Tower was very good with spectacular views.

In the evening we went to eat in the Minster Tavern, then to the Town House, West End House, and finally the Fountain.

Monday 30th June

Huntingdon to Stretham

Left at 815. Made very good time through St. Ives and stopped at The Pike and Eel hotel for lunch.

After a short lunch we carried on downstream through Earith lock onto the Old West River. This was much slower and we did not get to Stretham till gone 5pm. Fortunately the mooring there, which only had space for one long narrowboat, was free.

Had at look at the outside of the Stretham Old Engine, which is only open once a month.

Walked into Stretham to the Red Lion. After a very good two course meal we walked through the village to find the windmill, which is now a house.

Sunday 29th June

Great Barford to Huntingdon

Left Great Barford and headed downstream to St. Neots. We arrived here early so that we could get some shopping in Waitrose. Then we went to the Lord John Russell. Unfortunately they were weren't serving food till 1pm. However it was worth waiting for, fresh veg and a very thick piece of roast lamb.

Carried on down to Huntingdon where we were due to pick up Dave. Today was very busy with boats at every lock, so we did not get to Huntingdon till after 6pm. Fortunately the mooring that we had used going upstream was free.

The first pub we came to, the Samuel Pepys was doing food and had 4 real ales, so we ate there. We then wandered up the High Street to the George Hotel, but they only had 2 Green King beers. So we went to the Old Bridge Hotel.

Saturday 28th June

Bedford to Great Barford

Walked into town first thing as we couldn't get our key deposit back till 9.30.

Conveniently the fist gas bottle ran out this morning so we got a new one before leaving Priory Marina. Went upstream through the town centre and on to the limit of navigation at Kempston Mill.

This came slightly sooner than expected when the bow ran aground. We tried to turn there but couldn't, so we had to back down to the last island and turn below that.

Moored in Bedford and went for lunch in the Pilgrims Progress. After that Ian left for the station to go home.

Back downstream and moored for the night at Great Barford where we got the last free mooring. Lodestar was still there.

Walked up through the rest of the village to check out the other pubs. One was permanently shut and the Golden Cross was advertised as a Chinese Restaurant. However it still had a traditional front bars with real ale, so we tried some. Then back to the boat for a snack. Later on we went for a pint in the Anchor.

Friday 27th June

St. Neots to Bedford

Moved up to the Priory moorings in order to get some milk. There we found a Waitrose so we got a few other supplies as well.

Stopped at Great Barford for lunch in the Anchor. I had been here before by car.

Moored for the night in the Priory Marina in Bedford. It's 1 1/2 miles from the Town Centre but as GOBA member I got a free night there. Not being sure of the moorings in the town we thought it best to play safe, especially as is was Friday.

Went to the White Horse to eat then on to the Crickets Arms, and finally to the Wellington Arms.

Thursday 26th June

St. Ives to St. Neots

Having discovered last night that the Middle Levels windlass is not ideal for the locks on the Ouse, we went downstream to the boatyard above the lock to purchase one. They had a good chandlery and we were able to empty the toilet there.

Upstream again heading for Huntingdon for lunch and to pick up Andy. Andy was waiting at the bridge as we moored. Went for lunch in the Old Bridge Hotel. This was very expensive, but good quality food and of course good beer.

After a short lunch we pressed on to St. Neots. We checked out the moorings at the Priory Centre, but they did not feel safe. Also checked the moorings upstream of the bridge, but there were no boats there either. So we went back downstream to the moorings just outside town where there were now two other boats. We moored in front of Lodestar.

Went to the Lord John Russell to eat but they weren't doing any. They recommended another pub nearby, the Olde Sun, so we ate there. Then went back to the Lord John Russell..

Wednesday 25th June

Ely to St. Ives

After spending a while exploring Ely, we set off at 11.45. Decided not to stop for lunch, but the pub at Popes corner looked permanently closed anyway.

After Popes corner progress was slower and we even ran aground passing one boat. After Hermitage lock and the entrance to the New and Old Bedford Rivers, the river is bigger again and we speeded up again.

Moored for the night in St. Ives on Waits Quay behind Holt Island.

Went to eat in the White Hart which is a CAMRA Regional inventry pub, then to the Royal Oak which is also. Finally to the Oliver Cromwell which is in the GBG.

Tuesday 24th June

Brandon to Ely

Left at 8, winding just below the lock. Swift journey back to Brandon Creek junction where we stopped for lunch at the Ship.

Then on up the Ouse to Ely. Here we had an encounter with a rowing boat. As we approached the marina bridge they were coming downstream on the wrong side of the river. Despite sounding the horn and shouting they did not change course and their oars went under the bow and tipped them over into the water. No damage was done and initially they did not seem that bothered.

We stopped at the marina to get fuel, which was 105p/l! One guy there told us that it was regular occurence for the rowing boats to hit another boat. Certainly no one around seemed to think it odd. They come from one of the Cambridge University boat clubs which is based in Ely.

Then we turned round to moor for the night below the bridge.

Walked up into town and round the outside of the Cathedral to the Town House where we had something to eat. After that we went to the Prince Albert to try the Green King Mild, which is rare these days. We finished off the night in the West End House.

Monday 23rd June

Salters Lode to Brandon

Able to have a lie in today as we had to wait for the tide at 12. We were kept amused watching the Middle Level Commisioners dredging by the waiting pontoon for the lock.

We were in the lock before 12 but had wait for Denver sluice who had 4 narrowboats to come over and there was some confusion over their lengths. Although Denver sluice is a big lock, Salters Lode is not at high water due to the arched bridge.

Left the lock at 12.10, the engine was smoking badly and I realised that we must have picked up some of the weed that was floating in the lock. A quick burst of reverse sorted that out and we managed to turn upstream fairly easily. We crossed one narrowboat coming from Denver and locked down onto the Ouse.

After leaving the sluice we turned downstream to find the facilities which were tucked away between the sailing club and the relief channel sluice.

We had decided to skip doing the relief channel to catch up on our schedule. Instead we had lunch on the move and headed upstream to the junction with the Little Ouse and go up that to Brandon, which is the head of navigation on the Little Ouse.

We made good speed up the Little Ouse and it was only when we got near Brandon that the current increased due o the narrowing of the river.

Moored below the lock at Brandon. We couldn't go though as it is only 40ft long. We were the only boat there.

Walked into Brandon along the river and to the Bell for a pint. Then to the
Brandon Bridge Hotel to eat, and finally to the Great Eastern.

Sunday 22nd June

Upwell to Salters Lode

Up at 745 and away at 805 to make it to Slaters Lode for the tide at 11. There had been a lot of heavy rain in the night but now it was sunny and windy.

Arrived in plenty of time but by now it was very windy which would make doing the turn to go upstream from the lock very difficult. Initially I was tempted ot go, but after watching another narrowboat only just make it, I decided not to.

Walked into Downham Market for lunch in the Crown Hotel which had very good food. After a short wander round the town we caught a train to Kings Lynn. Here we had a good look round, had a beer in the White Horse, the to the Stuart House Hotel to eat, another beer in the Live and Let Live, and finally back to the Hotel for another beer. Caught the last train back to Downham and walked back from there.

Saturday 21st June

March to Upwell

Brief shopping trip then left March at 10am. The weather soon turned awful, windy, raining and misty. Turned left onto the Twenty Foot River to go as far as the low bridge at Infields. Turned back and onto the main drag towards Upwell. We stopped for lunch by a wind farm. We just let the wind hold us in the side and had some soup.

On to Marchmont Priory lock which I had rung up to book, but being early wasn't a problem. This lock takes you up onto Well Creek.

Moored for the night on the visitor moorings in Upwell and filled up with water. Went to the Five Bells pub nearby to eat but their kitchen was being refurbished and they advised us to go to the Crown Lodge Hotel which is on the far side of Outwell. There we had some good beer and very good food, Lamb breast.

Then we walked all the way past the boat to the Globe, which was an Elgoods pub. Finally we went to the Five Bells.

Friday 20th June

Peterborough to March

Had a couple of hours to look round Peterborough before setting off at 11. Turned off the Nene into Kings Dyke and towards Stanground lock which I had booked for 11.30. After filling in the paperwork and purchasing the windlass and key, we went into the lock to go down onto the Middle Levels. No problem with depth of water in the lock but the lock keeper said that levels were slightly high. Which could present problems at some of the low bridges.

Managed to moor in Wittelsey for lunch to go to the Boat pub for lunch. This also served beer into glasses in the cellar. To our surprise they were doing basic food so we ate there too.

Had a quick look round the town and walked back via the lock.

Carried on via Ashlin lock along Wittlesey Dyke and turned onto the Old River Nene at Floods Ferry. When we got to March we moored by Town Bridge. Went to the Acre pub by the navigation to eat, then to the Oliver Cromwell Hotel, and finally to the Rose and Crown, which is the pub in the good beer guide.

Thursday 19th June

Fotheringhay to Peterborough

A leisurely 9am start to get to Wansford for lunch. It had been very windy during the night with some mysterious bangs, but there was no apparent reason. It was still quite windy, but at least the sun was shining.

Moored below the old bridge in Wansford in what turned out to be the grounds of the Haycock Hotel. Ate in the expensive hotel then went to try the beer in the Paper Mills pub opposite.

Onwards downstream, sharing the nwxt two locks with another boat.
Spotted a new mooring at the Nene Valley railway.

Stopped to empty the loo in Peterborough then moored for the night nearby.

Went to the old barge, Charters.
This is now run by the Oakham brewery and the food is now provided by a Thai restaurant on the upper level. So we went to the Drapers Arms to eat. Although this is a Wetherspoons, it is in the GBG. They even had live music and we were asked if we wanted our beer served with or without a sparkler!

After eating there we went to the Oakham Brewery Tap. This also has Thai food but not in a seperate area. Then we walked to Goodbarns Yard, but they did seem to have much beer and there was a loud band playing. So we walked south of the river to the Palmerston Arms. This is a Batemans pub and is unusual in that all beer is served into glasses from the casks in the cellar, which is behind the bar with a large window.

Wednesday 18th June

Islip to Fotheringhay

The boat alongside us started its engine at 730 as arranged, and left to go upstream to get to the River Stort. We backed out and turned downstream.

It was cloudy all day with some rain and the wind started to rise.

Moored on the excellent unofficial moorings above Ashton lock in a weir stream. Walked into Ashton, home of the world conker championships, and to the Chequered Skippy. As we had been led to believe, the food here was excellent. I had Lamb followed by Elderflower Cheesecake.

After that we carried on to Fotheringhay where the land owner allows mooring for £3 a night either side of the bridge. We moored by the remains of the castle.

We had a good look round the village, and even the church which was open. The we went to the Falcon pub which turned out to be in the Michelin pub guide. I had a starter. Wood Pidgeon Terrine, which was very good. Having sampled all three beers we retired to the boat for a nightcap.

Tuesday 17th June

Wellingborough to Islip

Early start to get to Woodford for an early lunch. There were more boats around today. It was cool but mainly sunny.

One of the locks had a radial gate rather than a straight vertical gate.

When we arrived at Woodford the moorings were not marked so we overshot and had to go back to moor in a field below the church, which apparently was the right place.

Went for lunch in the Dukes Arms. We had a main course as they were cheaper at lunchtime and we were expecting to be in an unknown pub that evening. I had the Venison stew.

In the afternoon we decided only to go as far Islip and Thatcham where we would be able to get milk and there would be a choice of pubs.

Fortunately we had been talking to a local boat crew so we knew how to find the mooring. It's tucked away just above the bridge. It was already full with 2 narrowboats so we breasted up with the longer one. Later on another narrowboat came alongside us.

Walked through Islip and across the river to Thatcham to check out the pubs and buy the milk. We also had a pint in the Masons Arms, a Charles Wells pub.

Later we went for a meal in the Woolpack which was better than we expected. The food especially was very good. We took advantage of the 2 course early bird menu. I had a Chicken Ceasar Salad followed by Sorbets.

Walked to the other pub in Islip but found this to be permanently closed. So we went back to the Woolpack.

Monday 16th June

Locked down onto the river and turned left to explore the Westbridge Arm as far as the first bridge. Then we turned and went downstream.

For lunch we went in to Billing aquadrome and managed to moor near the Billing Mill pub. They had run out of real ale so we resorted to Bulmers Pear and a sandwich and then pressed on for Wellingborough. We had one manual sluice lock today and it was quite hard work.

Turned round and moored at Wellingborough. Walked to the Locomotive for a drink first. Then we went to the Old Grammarians Club hoping to eat there, but we out of luck beacause it was Monday. Then, as we had to pass the Coach and Horses On the way to Wetherspoons we called in and they were doing food. So we ate there instead.

Sunday 15th June

Started before 9 in order to get to Gayton for lunch. Stopped briefly to empty the loo at Gayton junction then on down the Northampton Arm to Gayton Marina. Here we filled up with fuel. Unfortunately they managed to get 87l in. Unfortunate because it was 96p/l! Bought a 31 day Environment Agency licence too and some Fuelset.

Then we moored opposite the marina and walked to Milton Malsor where we ate in the Greyound. This turned out to be a Chef and Brewer pub, the one that Mark took me to after looking at Freedom for him.

Partly due to slow service at lunch we were late setting off down the locks to Northampton. However we made good progress, but we worked hard to do it and arrived in Northampton much earlier than expected. Moored at Cotton End wharf. Went for a drink in the Malt Shovel then to eat in the Wetherspoons. Then to the Lamplighter, which is closed Sunday evenings, Racehorse, and finally to the Wig and Pen.

Saturday 14th June

Left Rugby and up Hillmorton Locks and on to Braunston. Went to the Plough for lunch then on to the Wheatsheaf.

After lunch we turned onto the Grand Union and went up the locks at Braunston, sharing them with another boat. Then through the tunnel and on to Norton Junction, down Buckby locks and on to Weedon. Went to eat in the Heart of England the then walked to Lower Weedon where drank in the Plume of Feathers and the Maltsters Arms.

Friday 13th June

I'm currently unable to send emails from my phone, hence the delay in sending blogs so far.

Left Brinklow Marina on my own at about 5pm to pick up Ian in Rugby, which I managed to do near the footpath to Brownsover. Carried on and moored opposite Clifton cruisers. Walked back along the towpath and down onto the Browsover footpath to go into town for the evening. Went to the Wetherspoons to eat, then to the Merchants Inn which was quite busy. Then to the Alexandria, and finally to the Victoria.

Wednesday 2nd January

A gloomy start to the day and no trains to disturb me again today due to overrunning engineering works.

Went as far as Clifton where I bought some gas then moored opposite. Walked into Clifton to check out the Bull. They had London Pride, something else, and a guest beer, which was was another weak beer with a stupid christmassy name. So I had the Pride. They do cheap lunches every day except Sunday at £3.50, so I had one of those.

After lunch the sun appeared and I set off for the marina. Unfortunately a wind had also started. This helped me get into the marina entrance, which I managed to do in one go. However it made mooring on the pontoon very difficult. Although I did manage to get close enough to the pontoon to get off there are no cleats for the centre line so I only able to get the stern line on the ring, by which time the bow had been blown onto to the next pontoon, which is empty. I was then unable to pull the boat in using the centre line, but by using a long bow line I did succeed.

Tuesday 1st Janury 2008

A misty start, but when the sun started to burn through I carried on to Braunston marina where I winded. Then headed towards home. Stopped at Willoughby for lunch. By now the boat was too hot inside due to the sun, but I didn't want to let the fire go out just for a few hours. It wasn't very hot, but I was wearing thermals.

After lunch carried on towards Hillmorton where I moored above the locks. I was planning to go and check out at least one pub, but with Finding Neverland and Shameless on TV I decided not to bother. Cooked a small rack of lamb for dinner.

Monday 31st December

Another calm and relatively warm day.

Went up through the three locks at Hillmorton. There were quite a few boats on the move today so I got a bit of help with the locks. Moored above the locks for lunch. After which I started the 6 mile run to Braunston.

Moored in my favourite spot near the footpath up to the church. Went for a walk along the canal as far as the bottom lock, then up into the village.

The Wheatsheaf was displaying a Good Beer Guide 2008 sticker so I felt obliged to go in and try it. They have Abott, Flowers IPA and a gust ale which was Skinners Christmas Fairy. I had the guest ale but wasn't impressed with it.

Sunday 30th December

After the strong winds of yesterday there was no wind at all today. So decided to set off towards Braunston. Stopped for water at Newbold and popped into the Boat to check out the beer situation. Only Brew XI as the Boddingtons was not available.

After that I carried on to Rugby where I moored to go shopping at Tescos. I'm not going to risk relying an pubs for food, based on past experience at this time of year.

After that I moved on to Hillmorton where I moored for the night below the locks. I was very tired so I didn't venture out. It was not a very cold evening and I survived with a wood fire, which I left to go out when I went to bed.