Friday 19th June

Ash Vale to Brookwood Country Park

Thursday 18th June

Ash Vale

Day trip by train, Ash Vale to Alton then onto the Watercress line Alresford.

Wednesday 17th June

Odiham Castle to Ash Vale

Tuesday 16th June

Frimley Green to Odiham Castle

Monday 15th June

Brookwood Country Park to Frimley Green

There were two other boats moored next to us and they both made it to the Brookwood bottom lock before us so they went up the Brookwood and Deepcut flights together and we followed. Fortunately there was another boat coming down so we could leave the locks open behind us until we crossed. Andy J. arrived by train and caught up with us. Stopped for lunch on borad in one of the locks as we kept catching up the other two boats. On reaching the top we carried on to Frimley Green where we moored by Frimley Lodge Park. Walked to the Rose and Thistle for a meal. Andy left us here then Ian and I went to the Old Wheatsheaf and finally to the Miners Arms. From there we walked back through the park.

Friday 12th June

Brookwood Country Park

Andy left us here and later on we went home by train from Brookwood station.

Thursday 11th June

North Haw to Brookwood

Set off at 9.15 and turned into the Basingstoke Canal to get to the Woodham bottom lock at 930. We were greeted by Matt who had opened all the locks in the first flight for us. As there was another boat coming down we were able to leave all the locks open for them. After the 6 locks in the flight we carried through Woking to the sanitary station opposite the Bridge Barn pub where I emptied the loo and we got some water. The other boat was here taking a rest here, an unusual wooden boat with a single cylinder Gardner. Before we have completely filled with water we set off to get to St John's bottom lock at 130. We did not see Matt again and now we had to empty all the locks behind us. After going through locks 9 and 10 we were unable to shut the top gates so we informed the Canal centre.  Stopped briefly above the top lock to check the local shops,  there was a Coop there. Then we carried on to the water point in Brookwood park where we completed filling up with water. On the way to the pub we checked the moorings near Brookwood bottom lock but these were so bad that we decided to stay put. Andy and I had a pint in the pub. Again no dogs allowed inside and the beer was very average. We returned to Jacob where we had a barbecue then we all went back to the pub for another average pint.

Wednesday 10th June

Windsor to New Haw

Andy J.  Arrived and we set off downstream at 1110. Another quiet day and we didn't have to share any of the locks.  We only had to self operate one lock. Turned off the Thames below Shepperton lock onto the River Wey. Purchased a transit licence to get us to the Basingstoke canal tomorrow. Stopped for the night above Haw lock and went to check out the White Hart nearby pub nearby. They only allow dogs in the garden so we decided to have an early dinner there before the sunset.

Tuesday 9th June

Henley to Windsor

Today was quieter than yesterday. At WIndsor we moored on the north bank, the Eton side, for which we had to pay £8 again. Went for a meal in the nearby Watermans Arms. The beer was good but the food was average, but at least it was not expensive. Then we walked into Windsor where we had a pint in the Carpenters Arms.

Monday 8th June

Beale Park to Henley

Another busy day with lots of lock sharing. Stopped for water at Shiplake lock after being unable to get some at Mapledurham due to a change in policy to avoid congestion at the limited mooring there. Moored on the west bank below Henley bridge for which there is a charge of £8.  Went to eat in the Little Angel on the east side of the bridge then on to the GBG entry The Bird in Hand.

Sunday 7th June

Beale Park Boat and Outdoor Show

I went for a look round the show on my own in the morning.  An interesting mix of boats from canoes to steam boats. Later we went back together for another look. After the show had closed we returned to Jacob.  Having seen someone else swimming in the river nearby I was encouraged to do so and take Muffin with me. First we tried Muffin with his life jacket on and he was swimming well, then we tried him without the life jacket and he was still able to swim well. However although he seemed to want to get in to join me, he didn't. After that we had a barbecue.

Saturday 6th June

Oxford to Beale Park

Another long day to get to Beale Park in one day. Left Oxford before 9 to get to Iffley lock after 9. I was a bit annoyed when I saw the lock gates closing and only 2 narrowboats inside. I think the gates paused but briefly but we had to wait. So we had to share with a large cruise boat.  I didn't think we would both fit in but when I spoke to the lock keeper I saw the lock is wider than the gates. Stopped at Days lock to empty the loo, stopped at Sheridan Marine near Moulsford to get gas,  and finally got some water at Cleeve lock while waiting for a boat to come up. We got to Goring lock at 1745 but it was already on self operate mode.  Unfortunately the water point there is for containers only so we couldn't get any more water. Moored behind the larger island at Beale Park. As it was a sunny Saturday it was quite busy so we took 10 hours rather than 8 1/2 hours.

Friday 5th June

Oxford Osney bridge to Folly bridge

Decided to stay in Oxford another night after our long day yesterday, but to save time on a long day tomorrow and to charge the batteries a bit we moved slowly down through Osney lock and moored below Folly bridge. Went to the Turf Tavern for a 3 course meal with beer. Then we arranged to meet up with Andy again at the Crown. 

Thursday 4th June

Lechlade to Oxford

Set off about 9 hoping to get Eynsham today and do a short day tomorrow to get to Oxford. On arriving at a lock at 1450 to find it on self service we decided to take the opportunity to fill up with water and hope that a lock keeper would return at 1400, which he did. Finished filling with water at 1415 and carried on. We were making good time even doing 5mph some of the time and I realised that we could make Oxford tonight but might have to do the last two locks ourselves. I got Andy I to check on the moorings at East Street and he said that there was plenty of room so we pressed on.  Arrived at Kings lock at 1745 and the lock keeper was still there so we only had to do Godstow lock ourselves. 

Andy came to meet us once we had moored and we set off to eat in the Kite nearby where dogs are allowed in the back yard. After that we had a very cold pint in the Jolly Farmers then onto the St. Aldates Tavern where we had a very nice Dark Star Victorian Ruby Mild at 6%.

Wednesday 3rd June

Tadpole Bridge to Lechlade

Set off at 910 about half an hour later than planned. They seem to have cut back on the manned lock hours so they don't open till 9am and one of the locks was unmanned so we had to self operate.
Moored in the field below the Lechlade bridge. Walked into Lechlade and went to the pet shop, then we tried to get some beer from the Halfpenny brewery at the brewery tap but they didn't have any. Then we went to the butchers/greengrocers. Finally we were obliged to try beers from the two local breweries in the Swan Inn. Apparently the the Old Forge and Halfpenny breweries share the same brewer.

Tuesday 2nd June

Tadpole Bridge

Due to the high winds which were predicted till late in the day we stayed at Tadpole bridge. Ran out of water in the morning but managed to extend the hose reel on the pub to reach Jacob. In the evening we went for another meal in the pub, only two courses and no pudding wine.

Monday 1st June

Wolvercote Junction to Tadpole Bridge

Prepared Jacob for the river by getting out the anchor, long ropes, and remote engine stop rope. Backed up to the junction and went through Dukes cut. Turned left to get to Kings lock to buy a licence though I discovered that you can now buy them at Eynsham lock which I couldn't 15 years ago. I got a 1 month licence. Had a non stop long run upstream to Tadpole bridge to get to the Anchor Inn. The moorings were empty! At 8 we went in for our evening meal. The food was so good that we had 3 courses. Martin had a glass of wine with the meal and we both had pudding wines with dessert, but apart from that we stuck to the beers.

Sunday 31st May

Upper Heyford to Wolverton Junction

Foolishly decided to stop for lunch at the Rock of Gibraltar. I was suspicious when I saw that the moorings were empty and sure enough they were not doing food. It seems that it has changed hands again and have not yet got their act together. Having gone to the effort of moor we decided to have a beer anyway which was also a bad idea as none of the three beers were on form but not bad enough to reject. Carried on to Wolvercote junction where we moored on the mooring below the lock and just past the junction. Unfortunately at Wolvercote lock Muffin tried to walk across the bottom gate on what looked like a board that you could walk on but it was not wide enough and he fell in again. After dinner on board we walked down the towpath to the Plough Inn on the green at Wolvercote which I had always noticed when passing. Despite being a Greene King pub they do usually have a real guest beer and one was put on during our visit, Robinsons Dizzy Blonde. Andy left us here to go home and we walked back to the boat via the national cycleway number 5.

Saturday 30th May

Banbury to Upper Heyford

Myself and Andy went to Morrisons first thing and Martin went shopping in the mall. So a late start hampered by a wait for two other boats at the first lock. Decided to have a barbecue at Upper Heyford so we moored short of the lock where this is a sheltered wide towpath. After that we walked up the hill to the Barley Mow for some Fullers beers including their new Oliver's Island.

Friday 29th May

Cropredy to Banbury

A wet morning and not far to go so we delayed our departure till after lunch and arranged for Andy to meet us in Cropredy rather than Banbury. We got a bit wet a few times on the way and moored on the offside outside the Castle Quays shopping centre. Went to the Olde Reindeer Inn for a meal and stayed there to enjoy the Hook Norton beers.

Thursday 28th May

Fenny Compton to Cropredy

Set off earlier today around 10am. Had a good run down the Claydon locks meeting boats coming the other way at every one. Once again remembered a great time many years ago (1984?) spent playing Northampton skittles and drinking cider in the Rising Sun pub that is no longer, just a bus stop named after it as a reminder. Stopped for lunch below the bottom lock. Carried on to Cropredy where we went through the lock and filled up with water before mooring for the night. Took Muffin for a walk round the village and booked a table in the Brasenose Arms which was advertising its dog friendliness on a sign by the lock! They had a real pie on the menu so I had that.

Wednesday 27th May

Braunston to Fenny Compton

Muffin wanted to go out very early today, 630am! So we went for a wander round Braunston marina. Later on I went to Midland chandlers and Wharf House narrowboats chandlery. Stopped for a late lunch at the Folly Inn at the bottom of Napton locks. I had foolishly believed their website which said that they would be serving food till 230, but on arriving at the bar I was informed that had already stopped serving food. So we just had a pint in the garden in the sunshine. Worked our way up the locks and pressed on to Fenny Compton where we moored on the end of the long term moorings as it was 8pm by then. Unfortunately whilst I was mooring Muffin jumped off the rear deck and ended up half in the water. I pulled him out and after we had eaten our dinner I fired up the generator to use the hairdryer on him. Unfortunately this meant were then too late to go the pub again.

Tuesday 26th May

Crick to Braunston

New batteries arrived before 11am and we were ready to leave at about 1130. On arrival at Watford locks there was a queue and we were told that we were number 18 on the list. Several hours later and after much shuffling we got to the locks. Had a clear run through the Braunston tunnel. Considered mooring above the locks at Braunston but decided to carry on instead. The boat that was behind us in the queue at Watford caught us up at the second lock but they took the last place in the pound below the Admiral Nelson. We tried to moor by the main entrance to Braunston marina past the end of mooring sign but there were still rings, however there was an underwater obstruction so it was not suitable. So we carried on a bit and moored in a free space on the long term moorings. By this time it was 9pm and by the time we had eaten it was too late to go to the pub.

Monday 25th May

Crick

As promised the boat inside of us left at 830am leaving us next to the bank so Muffin can come and go as he pleases now. The almost empty gas bottle finally ran out and I went to get an exchange all the way from the marina. Dave arrived with a friend from Nuneaton and we met up in the entertainment tent. I bought a 150w solar panel,  an all black one like the old Siemens ones but bigger and just the right size to fit behind the exhaust. After the show had closed we moved to fill up with water at Crick wharf then carried on to the winding hole to turn around.  We spotted a space marked for a 55ft boat on the way and tried to get into it on the way back but we didn't fit.  So we carried on back to Crick wharf and took up the offer made to us earlier by the guy who has the mooring outside the Moorings restaurant to use his vacant mooring.  This is where we had arranged for the new batteries to be delivered so we didn't need to get up early to move again. After dinner on board we walked into the village for a pint in the Wheatsheaf.

Sunday 24th May

Moored at Crick

Took Muffin for a long walk up to bridge 15 to check out a possible mooring spot with better tv and phone reception. On my return our neighbours announced that they were planning to leave early tomorrow so we decided to stay put.

I went back to the show to see the third battery supplier and everything else.

After the show had closed we went there for dinner alfresco and to listen to the music. The entertainment tent was packed due to the headline act, Hazel O'Connor.

Saturday 23rd May

Moored at Crick

Visted the show late in the afternoon and stayed on to enjoy the music and the beer festival. Took Muffin for a walk up Cracks hill to enjoy the sunset. He was thoroughly enjoying it, unfortunately he got carried away and decided to roll in some cow shit.

Friday 22nd May

Watford to Crick

Moved on through Crick tunnel. There was no one to greet us with our goody bag and instructions to where our reserved mooring was. However we were soon hailed by another boat that we were supposed to breast up with. This was hardly closer to the festival than last year despite having paid even more for a class 2 mooring. However we eventually managed to get a tv signal by deploying the big aerial. We also managed to get 3G for the mifi but it was so weak that we couldn't do much. In the evening we went to the festival for the beer and entertainment.

Thursday 21st May

Braunston to Watford (no not that one)

Decided to try to get to Crick today as it's only supposed to be 5 1/2 hrs if there isn't any queueing at the locks. On arrival at Braunston bottom lock there were already 2 boats waiting. So after waiting for them to go through we ended up sharing with another boat that we had been moored near with a dog that Muffin had played with yesterday. Lunch on the run again and turned at Norton junction to go north towards Crick. Surprised to find no boats waiting at Watford locks. We were allowed to go straight up the first 2 locks but waited in the first for a boat coming down. There were two volunteers assisting the lock keeper. At the top we stopped to top up with water etc. By this time we had decided due to the nice weather not to get to Crick today but to have a barbecue in the countryside south of the tunnel.

Wednesday 20th May

Rugby to Braunston

One of the two bottom locks at Hillmorton is being repaired so one of each of the other 2 pairs are also out of use. Never the less we were only held up for a short time at the second lock. We had lunch on the run and moored early on the outskirts of Braunston as usual. We walked to the Admiral Nelson where we had a table booked in the games room. For a change we had wine with our meals and both were excellent.

Tuesday 19th May 2015

Brinklow marina to Rugby

Eventually left the marina at 6.40pm but didn't have far to go to reach Dave who was moored at Brownsover. After a spicy beef salad on board we walked into town. We went to the Victoria Inn first, but dogs are not allowed in the lounge bar and there were no seats in the  public bar. So we went to the Merchants Inn instead.

Friday 30th May

Willoughby to Brinklow Marina

Cool cloudy but dry day.

Stopped for lunch above Hillmorton locks.

Stopped for water below the locks.

Thursday 29th May

Norton Junction to Willoughby

Stopped at the top of Braunton locks to go for lunch in the Admiral Nelson.

After lunch carried on down through the locks and up the Oxford canal to Willoughby wharf where we managed to have a barbecue despite the wind. Then we walked into Willoughby to go to the Rose Inn for a drink.

Wednesday 28th May

Yelvertoft to Norton Junction

A miserable day.

Stopped above Watford locks for lunch.

Went to the New Inn for dinner so I could try the local faggots.

Tuesday 27th May

Welford to Yelvertoft

Having emptied one gas bottle we went out of our way and turned North at Welford junction to go to North Kilworth Wharf to get a replacement. Stopped for the night at Yelvertoft. Foolishly I had not rung the pub there and when we turned up we discovered that the whole pub was fully booked for an eating event. So we had a pint and called for a taxi to take us to the Wheatsheaf in Crick. After another good meal there we discovered that they offer a taxi service to the canal at Crick, so we asked if they could take us to Yelvertoft, which they did.

Monday 26th May

Crick to Welford

As it was due to rain we decided that it would be too muddy to go to the show and with the promise of better weather at the end of the week that we would extend our trip till Friday. So we set off for Welford, stopping on the way for lunch.

In Welford we went to the Wharf Inn for the evening. As it was raining and the Wharf is in the GBG we decided not to try the other pub.

Sunday 25th May

Crick

A nice day with sun. In the morning I went for a quick flit round the show on my own. Purchased some Venison salami, engine oil and a mifi device with external aerial to try to overcome our lack of internet.

After lunch on board we went to the  show and looked at a few boats.

Then we walked into the village to try the food in the Red Lion. The food is cheaper than the Wheatsheaf but not as good, beer choice also not interesting. After that we went to the Royal Oak to try the beer there, and finally to the Wheatsheaf.

Saturday 24th May

Crick

Rain and hail today so did not go to the show.

Keith and Tim paid us a visit while it wasn't raining.

In the evening we went the entertainment tent where Toyah Willcox was due to perform. It was very busy and we couldn't get a seat and we ended up outside looking in through the open sides. The beer was starting to run out.

Friday 23rd May

Norton Junction to Crick

On arrival at Watford locks there were only two other boats waiting and it wasn't too long before we were making our way up the flight.

Stopped at the services by the top lock to fill up with water and empty the loo. The water pressure was very low but that gave us a chance to have lunch.

After emerging from Crick tunnel we were soon hailed by another boat that we were supposed to moor alongside. Unfortunately as this was in the cutting we could not get TV or phone signals.

In the evening we headed into the village and to the Wheatsheaf. We had an excellent three course meal which came very quickly and they had a few interesting beers in good nick.

After that we went to the festival site to the beer tent which had a good choice of 46 beers. We managed to get a seat to enjoy the entertainment.

Thursday 22nd May

Willoughby to Norton Junction

After entering Braunston bottom lock another boat appeared and we shared all the way up. We moored at the top and walked back down to the Admiral Nelson where we had the seafood platter to share.

Later we carried on through Braunston tunnel meeting nothing coming the other way! We moored for the night before Norton junction. After dinner on board we went for beer in New Inn. They have 5 beers, nothing exciting but all in good nick.

Wednesday 21st May 2014

Brinklow Marina to Willoughby

After lunch we set off towards Braunston. Stopped for the night at Willoughby wharf where we had a barbeque.

Then we walked into the village to the Rose Inn. Only two beers and one not at its best, so only worth going there to eat.

Monday 1st July 2013

Rugby to Brinklow marina

Just a short uneventful trip back to the marina.

Sunday 30th June

Napton to Rugby

Winded outside the pub and returned to Napton junction where we went straight on towards Braunston. It was the weekend of the Braunston boat show and when we got to Braunston turn the working boats were using the junction to form a parade, so we had to wait for a gap before we were allowed through onto the Oxford north canal.

We stopped for lunch on board on some suitable piling further north. Then we carried on through Hillmorton locks where there were 2 volunteer lock-keepers at the bottom lock. We moored for the night in Rugby on the 24hr offside moorings near Tescos. After dinner on board we walked into town to the Seven Stars, now refurbished and selling Banks & Taylors. Then we went to the Squirrel which is very small and only had one interesting guest beer. Finally we went to the Merchants.

Saturday 29th June

Leamington Spa to Napton

Arrived at Radford Lock and as we were going in another boat appeared so we were able to share locks all the way to Bascote locks. 

Moored for lunch on board near Long Itchington and walked across the fields to the Harvester and then to the Green Man.

After lunch we carried on up the Stockton and Calcutt Locks to Napton junction where we turmed right. I had been unable to book a table at either the Folly or the Old Olive Bush. So we decided to risk trying the Napton Bridge Inn. Fortunately there was a good space left on the moorings outside. After dinner in the pub we walked to the Kings Head which we had not been to for 20 years. It is a Hook Norton pub and had been recently refurbished and has Cask Marque approval. The beer was good and it sounds as though it might have been a better place to eat.

Friday 28th June

Rowington to Leamington Spa

Early start to get to Hatton. However we made slow progress as the pound was low. On arrival at Hatton top lock we filled up with water while waiting for a boat to share the locks with. No boat had appeared by the time the tank was full, however a working boat had come up the flight so we started down solo to take advantage of the full locks. We made reasonable progress with 3 people and only using paddles on one side, and got down the flight in 3 1/2 hours.

Moored near the Cape of Good Hope and went there for a late lunch. The beer seemed a bit fizzy to me but he food was nice however it was strage to be there when it was empty.

After lunch we carried on to Leamington Spa stopping at Tesco on the way, as we had decided to spend the night there for the first time on Jacob. This is because there are now more pubs in the GBG in Leamington Spa than in Warwick, and we were encouraged by our lunchtime visit last year.

We had dinner on board then went to the Talbot Inn and Somerville Arms, both of which we had visited last year and the Woodland Tavern which was a new entry and open till later.

Thursday 27th June

Knowle to Rowington

Just a short distance to get to a suitable mooring so that we could walk to Packwood House. We had found that the Millennium way would take us from bridge 66 to the house via the eastern tree lined avenue. Unfortunately there was no cafe as there were building works going on. The house was interesting and unusual because it had all the original contents, and the garden was very beautiful.

Back at the boat Andy left us to walk to Lapworth station to catch a train to Leamington Spa and onwards to Reading.

Later we moved on to moor near the Tom O'The Wood pub. After dinner on board we went for a pint in the pub. They only had one beer which wasn't very good, so we went up the hill to Rowington Club which is in the GBG. They had 4 beers on, but I stuck to the Wye Valley HPA.

Wednesday 26th June

Cuckoo Wharf to Knowle

8am start again, back to Salford junction where we turned right to go back back up the Grand Union to Bordesley junction. We had to stop in one of the locks to go down the weed hatch to remove a piece of electrical cable and loads of other plastic bags etc. This was the first time this year and probably for 3 three years. It was noticable the we could go faster after this. Then we went up Camp Hill locks. All the locks today were empty which was in our favour so we made fast progress.

We moored for lunch in Catherine de Barnes. We had lunch in the Boat which is a Chef and Brewer pub. After lunch we carried on as far as Knowle where we were able to have a barbecue for the first time ever on Jacob.

I decided to change the leaking engine water pump for the spare. Unfortunately the spare also leaked, but from the rear bearing rather than the front one which means that it is easier to catch the leakage.

After that we walked into Knowle to go the Vaults. This is difficult to find as it's just a door down a side street and has no windows at all. They had a few beers, however I stuck to the Donnington BB which was excellent.

Tuesday 25th June

Titford to Cuckoo Wharf

Set off at 8am but Thistle beat us to the lock, very annoying as they had said that they would leave as early as necessary to be first. However it only held us up by 10 minutes.

At Oldbury junction we turned right and then left at Spon Lane junction and down Spon Lane locks to Bromford junction where we turned right onto the New main line. Then at Pudding Green junction we turned off onto the Walsall canal and down Ryders Green locks. At Doe Bank junction we stopped briefly to empty the toilet and dispose of the bags of rubbish that we had collected from the locks.

We turned right there onto the Tame Valley canal and went all the way along and down through Perry Bar locks to Salford junction where turned sharp right to go to Cuckoo Wharf. We went past the wharf and managed to wind in the remains of one of the old arms. Moored on the wharf and filled up with water while we all had showers. An 8 hour day with no stop for lunch.

We were worried that the area might be locked up at night but in the end we risked it and walked out to the Bartons Arms. This is a magnificent pub restored by Oakham brewery and serves Thai food. On Tuesdays you can get get 2 courses for £10 so we all took advantage of that.

Monday 24th June

Tipton Green to Titford pumphouse

There was a morning talk at the library to tell us about 10 things that Titford is famous for, and also a look at the lost canals in the area. After that we went to Caggys yard to buy another anti vandal key. We walked back from there along the route of the Toll End canal from Watery Lane junction up to the Wolverhampton level and went for a pint and lunch in the Fountain Inn.

After lunch we set off to Oldbury junction where we turned right to go up Titford locks. We carried on to Titford pools to wind at Portway Branch junction. We did get stuck on a submerged object under Jarvis bridge but we manged to get off it and past it. We moored behind the other boats on the towpath near the pumphouse by Titford top lock.

After a meal on board we went to the pumphouse for the final social. The 36 pints of beer, Enville ale from Ma Pardoes, didn't last long and I only got one pint. A raffle was held in aid of the  BCNS but the plaques were not ready and will be sent to us in the post.

Sunday 23rd June

Walsall to Tipton Green

After a noisy but trouble free night we set off at 815 back to Walsall junction. We had to wait a while before we could start going up Walsall locks as they were letting some water down to fill up some of the low pounds. And again later we were held up while Stuart pulled some bricks out of the way that were holding open the bottom gate of one of the locks.

At Birchills junction we turned left onto the Wryley and Essington canal. As we approached Sneyd wharf one of the other boats was just leaving so we stopped to fill up with water there. At Horseley Fields junction we tuned left towards Birmingham.

When we got to Deepfields junction we turned off to explore the Wednesbury Oak loop. The first part to the  winding hole was not too bad, but after that it became much worse. We had been told that the chain which they used to use to block off the Bradley yard out of business hours is no longer used. This was the case but we winded in the entrance to the side basin before the chain as Stuart had suggested.

Back at Deepfields junction we turned left back onto the main canal. We moored alongside Arcturious outside the Neptune centre at Tipton Green. A 10 hour day without stopping for lunch!

We went to Mad O'Rourkes Pie Factory to eat, where most of the customers were from our cruise. This is the last of the pubs from the Little Pub Company and still has Lumphammer beers and the Desperate Dan Cow Pie. Then we caught a bus to the Beacon Hotel in Sedgley where we had some of my favourite beer, Sarah Hughes Dark Ruby Mild. We caught the last bus back at 2230.

Saturday 22nd June

Ocker Hill to Walsall

We set off and turned right at Tame Valley junction onto the Walsall canal. Quite a bit of this was shallow and slow going.

At Walsall junction we turned right into the town arm and moored in the basin at the end. This was not easy as we had to turn around and back in alongside the other boats. Soon the basin was full and three boats moored just outside.

We went for lunch in the Rose and Crown near the top of the locks. They only had rolls for lunch and the beers were disappointing apart from the Strawberry one that the landlord recommended.

Later we went for an early dinner in the Black Country Arms which used to be in the GBG. Then we went shopping in Tescos.

After that we returned to the same pub, then Martin and I tried the Red Lion where we had a short measure Banks bitter. Finally we went to the Lyndon House Hotel.

Friday 21st June

Longwood Boat Club to Ocker Hill

Four Paws was off to a very early start and as there was a very narrow gap between us and the boat opposite I decided that we should get out of the way and move onto the lock mooring to be the first to fill up with water. 45 minutes later at 815 we were full and went into Rushall top lock.

There were no problems with these locks and at Rushall junction we turned right onto the Tame Valley canal.

The mooring was just before Tame Valley junction and we moored alongside the bank.

We set off on foot to the Waggon and Horses for lunch. This is the brewery tap for the Toll End Brewery which can seen in the garden. They don't do food apart from the usual snacks including some very nice local Pork Scratchings. However you can buy your own food in the chippy next door and eat it in the conservatory or garden. So we went and bought some kebabs there.

Back at the moorings Kellylea had moored alongside us. Later we gathered at 4pm for a guided walk. We were taken up Ryders Green locks along the Swan Arm and back via the original Brindley canal which is now gone.

After dinner on board we returned to the Waggon and Horses for the evening.

Thursday 20th June

Anglesey Basin to Longwood Boat Club

Back down the Curly Wyrley to Birchills junction and then left onto the Daw End branch. Some of this is very shallow so we were too late for lunch at the Manor Arms, but we did still have time for a pint to check the beer for tonight.

After that we carried on to Longwood junction where we moored inside the Longwood Boat Club.

For dinner we had ordered fish and chips and we ate these in the clubhouse with the other boaters. After that we made the one mile trek back up the towpath to the Manor Arms for beer.

Ian had arranged to borrow a card to get us back in to the boat Club, which was fortunate as it was locked when we got back.

Wednesday 19th June

Pelsall to Anglesey Basin

In the morning we turned left at Pelsall junction to explore the Cannock Extension Arm. Unfortunately we had been asked to turn at the old colliery basins rather than go as far as we went before and wind at the boatyard.

Back on the Curly Wyrley we passed many of the other boats who had stopped at Brownhills Tescos and we carried on past Catshill junction and stopped at the Anchor Inn for lunch.

After that we carried on to Anglesey Basin where turned round and went back to moor alongside Kershez. We had dinner on board then we walked into Chasetown to the Uxbridge Arms with Stuart.

Tuesday 18th June

Wolverhampton to Pelsall

The first day of the explorer cruise. We were one of the last to set off as Andy went to the post office to get some first day issue stamps.

Turned left at Horseley Fields junction onto the Wryley and Essington canal. We stopped for a pint at the United Kingdom Pub where two other boats from our convoy had stopped. There is a secure mooring for one boat there.

During the the afternoon we stopped at Sneyd wharf to fill up with water and empty the toilet. Our mooring for the night was just before Pelsall junction where we moored alongside Arcturious.

We had dinner on board and set off to find beer. We had been warned that the Finger Post pub by the canal did not have any real ale, but we had found 3 pubs in Pelsall within one mile.We went first to the nearest one, the Old House at Home, then to the Railway Inn which has Cask Marque approval. On the way we looked at the Queens but didn't go in.

Monday 17th June

Compton to Wolverhampton

Decided not to start as early as last year to go up the Wolverhampton flight but when we got to Aldersley junction there was already one boat waiting for another boat to come out of the bottom lock. However once we got going after them we made quite fast progress.

When we got to the top there was still space to moor on the visitors moorings towpath side before Broad street  bridge. As it was now gone 2pm we went to the Moon Under Water for lunch.

When we got back to the boat, Kellylea was moored alongside us and more boats had appeared to gather for the BCN Explorer cruise B.

After dinner on board we headed to the Great Western for the evening social with the other boaters. We stayed there all evening.

Sunday 16th June 2013

Wombourne To Compton

In the morning we only went as far as Wightwick bridge on the outskirts of Wolverhampton so that we could  visit Whightwick Manor.

On the way the Manor we stopped for a pint at the Mermaid Inn. They were fully booked for lunch so we had lunch there in the old stables at the Manor, which are now part of the new and bigger cafe. After that we went round the house then round the gardens. There was quite a bit more to see inside the house than last year, however the gardens weren't as good, as apart from the Rhodedenrons there weren't as many plants in flower.

After that we moved on through the next 2 locks to Compton bridge for the night. We walked up the hill to the Westacres, an Ember Inn, where we ate. After that we went to the Swan.

Saturday 15th June

Stourbridge to Wombourne

We moved down the Stourbridge Town arm and moored by Chubbs bridge so that we could go to the Red House Glass Cone museum. This is now a free museum unlike my last visit.

On the way back to the boat we went to Tesco express. Then we carried on to the end of the arm, turned left at Wordsley junction and down to Stourton junction, having lunch on the move.

At the junction we turned north onto the Staffs and Worcs canal. We moored for the night before Houndel bridge 45 where one other boat was ready moored. Another boat moored behind us.

After dinner on board we avoided the Round Oak pub by the bridge and walked up the hill towards the GBG pub. On the way we noticed that the Mount Pleasant had been refurbished and re-opened as a pub again, so we tried that. We were pleasantly surprised to find a few interesting guest beers. Then we carried on to the New Inn which is still in the GBG. They have quite a few beers on but all from the Marstons stable. It was also karaoke night.

Friday 14th June

Windmill End to Stourbridge

830am start. Good run down Delph locks in 1 3/4 hours despite them all being empty. At Leys junction we turned up the Fens branch and winded at Brockmoor junction. We had no problems this time as the branch has been dredged since my last attempt.

We moored for lunch on board below lock 2 of the Stourbridge flight. We also went to sample the beer in the Samson and Lion.

At Wordsley junction we turned left towards Stourbridge. At the end of the arm we winded and went back and moored next to the other two boats moored outside the secure compound.

We went to eat in the the Edward Rutland which is a Lloyds No. 1. There was music playing but they had a good choice of beers on the front bar. After that we moved on to the Duke William which was very popular. Here we were able to sample several of the local Craddocks beers.

Thursday 13th June

Black Country Museum to Windmill End,  Netherton

We moved over to the facilities on the other side of the arm to fill up with water and empty the toilet and rubbish bin.

Set off and continued along the old main line towards Factory junction. On the way we spotted a Londis in Tipton. Another boat was already moored there and we pulled up in front of them and I went to get some milk.

At Factory junction we turned right and down Factory locks onto the new main line. At Dudley Port junction we turned right onto the Netherton tunnel branch and through Netherton tunnel.

At Windmill End junction we turned left on the Dudley no. 2 canal. We could see no sign of the pub that we had visited last time. As we approached Gosty Hill tunnel we could see a headlight at the other end so we moored. Eventually a pair of working boats appeared presumably on their way to the Pelsall rally. After passing through the tunnel we moored and had lunch on board. After that we carried on to Hawne Basin where we moored in a downpour. After the rain had eased we filled up with diesel. Then we set off back to Windmill End where we moored on the offside.

Later we went to the Old Swan. We had one pint downstairs then went upstairs to the restaurant in the old function room where we had a three course meal with beer.

Wednesday 12th June

Cambrian basin to the Black Country Museum

We set off via the Oozells street loop so that we could get some gas at Sherborne wharf. Then back on the main line up Smethwick locks onto the old main line to the Black Country Museum.

Lunch in the Bottle and Glass pub in the museum then a wander round the rest of the museum, unfortunately it rained some of the time. Back to Jacob before the back gate was locked at 4.45.

We ate on board then walked up into Dudley where we went in the Court House and the Lamp Tavern.

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Tuesday 11th June

Cambrian basin

Lazy morning. Oil change. Shopping in the Chinese supermarket. Met up in the Old Fox then dinner in the Malaysian Delight restaurant, followed by beers in the Lamp, the Post Office Vaults and the Old Joint Stock.

Monday 10th June

Bodymoor Heath to Birmingham

Early start to get into Birmingham. At Salford junction we turned sharp left onto the Grand Union canal. We moored for lunch on board above Garrison locks in Bordesley.

Turned right at Bordesley junction. We made a detour into Typhoo basin then up the Digbeth branch to Aston junction. Up Farmers Bridge locks and moored in Cambrian basin at 4pm.

In the evening we went for a pint in the Fountain then for dinner in Shanghai Shanghai restaurant. Then more beer in the Anchor, the Shakespeare and the Wellington (in the new upstairs bar as the ground floor was being refurbished).

Sunday 9th June

Hartshill to Bodymoor Heath

Arrived at Atherstone top lock just as another boat was ready to go down. So we followed them down with some assistance from the boat behind.

We had lunch on board but we stopped at the Samuel Barlow for a pint and took advantage of their water point while we there sitting outside on leather sofas and chairs!

At Fazeley junction we turned left onto the Birmingham and Fazeley canal. We moored for the night one lock above the Dog and Doublet. We had booked a table for 730. They wouldn't take a later booking as they close early if the can on a Sunday, however we were not the last to leave. We have a long day tomorrow.

Saturday 8th June

Brinklow marina to Hartshill

Set off at 9 to get to the Greyhound for lunch. The restaurant there was fully booked but there was one table free in the bar. The food and drink were excellent as usual.

After lunch we turned right at Hawkesbury junction onto the Coventry canal towards Fazeley.

For the evening we decided to avoid Atherstone and stop at the Anchor near Hartshill to check it out now that it has changed hands. It's still an Everards pub and hasn't changed much with 2 Everards beers and a guest or seasonal Everards beer. After a light dinner on board we walked up the hill into Hartshill. We found a shop to get some more provisions and checked out the Stag and Pheasant but decided to give it a miss and go to the Malt Shovel which is in the GBG.

Friday 7th June 2013

Brinklow Marina

Arrived at the marina after 3pm due to traffic delays which we had avoided by taking the A road between Bedford and Northampton. Ian had beaten us there.

Fitted the new shower pump to replace the very noisy original which would seize up if left unused for more than a month.

We decided to stay in the marina and take advantage of the recent dry weather to walk across the fields to the Golden Lion in Easenhall. We had dinner on board before going there. The pub was quiet with only one group eating. They had two beers on.

Saturday 14th July

Hawkesbury to Brinklow

Cloudy but at least it's not raining.

Passed through the bridge at Ansty which the owners of the pub had to pay to be demolished. Rather than demolish the whole thing, only the centre span has been removed and the two ends now have neat vertical walls. Maybe so they could put a flat bridge on top later?

Stopped briefly at Sutton stop so Andy could try again to get some IWA calenders, without success.

Had lunch on board at Brinklow then took Andy to the station to catch the express train that he actually had a reservation for.

Friday 13th July

Atherstone to Hawkesbury

The boat moored in front of us had set off up the locks while I was still asleep, but another boat had already come down them. We set off by 9am and didn't meet any boats coming down.

Moored for lunch in Nuneaton by the low footbridge. Had lunch on board then walked to the Crown for beer.

After that we carried on south to Hawkesbury junction where we turned through the stop lock and moored for the night. The Greyhound was very busy but we managed to share a table so that we could eat.

Thursday 12th July

Bodymoor Heath to Atherstone

Summer's here again, at least until until the evening.

Set off at 845. At Fazeley Mill marina we got a replacement gas bottle and emptied the loo.

Stopped briefly at Fazeley for essential supplies then we turned right at the junction.

Decided to stop for lunch at Alvecote marina to try the Samuel Barlow, which is quite new. It's run by an Ozzie with a long list of rules. No sandwiches, closed Mondays except Bank Holidays, closed most of January..... But he had 3 real ales and some interesting food, so we decided to have our main meal there.

After lunch we went to the priory nearby, but there's not much left of that. Then we carried on, stopping briefly at Polesworth so that Andy could post his postcards.

Moored for the night at Atherstone. Had a light meal on board then went to the Dolphin. It's in the GBG now and just been awarded Warwickshire pub of the year for the second year running. They had 2 beers from the Beowolf brewery which is now at Chasewater. The first was good but the second was not perfect. On the way back we popped into the Market Tavern to try a half of some Warwickshire brewery beer. Both beers that we had were in good condition, unlike my previous visit.

Wednesday 11th July

Birmingham to Bodymoor Heath

Showers and sunny spells.

Missed a heavy shower by not starting till 820. Made fast progress
down Farmers Bridge and Aston locks to Salford junction, which is better known to most people as Spaghetti junction. Turned right there onto the Birmingham and Fazeley canal.

Stopped for lunch on board at Minworth top lock. Then we carried on to get to Bodymoor Heath for the night. Moored near the Dog and Doublet where we ate and drank.

Tuesday 10th July

Compton to Birmingham

Rain all day until the evening.

Set off at 8am and we were at Wolverhampton bottom lock by 9am. Unfortunately someone else must have been up before us as all the locks were full. However sooner than expected we crossed another boat coming down. Then at 1030 Andys friend Andrew arrived having walked down from the station. This speeded our progress and we were at the top lock at noon. Unfortunately the locks have severely damaged the front fender, as the water holds the boat hard against the top gate and then is dragged up it. When I realised this was happening I started to use rope to hold the boat back. It's only 2 years old and hardly used.

Decided not to stop for lunch and press on so that we got to Birmingham City Centre tonight.

We had decided to take the new main line but when we got to Factory locks there was one boat in the top lock and another waiting, so we changed plans and took the old main line. This was quite weedy though most of it was cut weed.

Decided to go down Brades locks and take the Gower branch to get back onto the new main line. When we got to the end of that we found that we had overtaken the boat that had been waiting at Factory locks!  We were now in between the two working boats all the way to the centre.

Moored in Cambrian basin on the floating pontoons. Andrew left us on arrival.

Andy had a voucher code, 2 main courses for the price of one at Strada, so we went to the
one by the canal at the ICC. I had an excellent dessert, Figs poached in red wine and cinnamon.

After that we went to Digbeth to visit the pubs in the National Inventory, unfortunately the White Swan was not open but the Anchor was. I had Marble chocolate stout and Marble mild 6%!

Monday 9th July

Wombourne to Compton

A very nice dry sunny day.

Set off at 9am to get to Wightwick. Moored at the 48 hour moorings and walked to Wightwick Manor which is a National Trust property. After our tour of the house we had lunch in the cafe there.

After looking round the gardens we went back to the boat and set off to do the short hop to Compton, where the moorings were very popular. Went to eat in the Hollybush and then we for the better beer and more interesting atmosphere in the Swan.

Sunday 8th July

Caunsal to Wombourne

Set off at 815. I was thinking of doing a long day so that we could go up the Wolverhampton flight tomorrow morning, however it soon became busy and there were delays at most locks. So we stopped for at Greensforge and went for lunch in the Navigation Inn.

After lunch we carried on and stopped by the Round Tree at Wombourne. Although this pub has cask marque approval the New Inn 1/2 miles away is in the GBG so after eating on board we went there.

Saturday 7th July

Stourport upon Severn to Caunsal

Set off to get to Kidderminster in time to catch the 1115 train on the Severn Valley Railway. Unfortunately the train was hauled by a diesel locomotive which was not what was advertised in the timetable. The braking seemed rather abrupt and when we got to Arley station, by which time we were already very late, they decided to wait for a rescue locomotive. Eventually another class 50 loco appeared and took us all the way to Bewdley.

At Bewdley we walked up the hill into town to the White Lion for lunch. They only do pies from the local butcher and homemade Scotch eggs, I had a Black Pudding Scotch egg. Then we had a quick look around town and went back to the station as we had no idea when the trains were running due to the chaos caused by the breakdown. Although there was a train just leaving we wanted to have another pint in the station buffet and wait for the next one.

On the way back Andy and I got off at Highley to go to the Engine shed exhibition, leaving Ian to get back to the boat to collect hus luggage and make his way home.

We caught the second train after that which was steam hauled. On arrival back at Kidderminster we got  take away pizzas and went to the Olde Seven Stars to enjoy them with a pint.

I had already decided that I wanted to get out of Kidderminster as it was Saturday night. When we got back to the mooring there were no other boats around so that confirmed my decision.

Set off for Caunsal, arriving at sunset,  and went to the Anchor Inn for a pint.

Friday 6th July

Droitwich Spa to Stourport

Cast off at about 8am and continued down the Droitwich barge canal to Hawford junction. There we turned left to go downstream on the Severn through Bevere lock and moored at the Camp House Inn. When they opened at noon we went in for lunch. Although they had 4 ciders of which 3 were Thatchers, they all seemed to be keg, but they had a few good beers.

We noticed that the river level had risen by a couple of inches while we were having lunch. We set off going back upstream through Bevere lock.

After Holt Lock we came across a narrowboat which had broken down. So we took him in tow. After a mile or two we came across a good floating jetty at the Hamstall Inn so I was relieved to be able to leave him there as we were making less than 2 mph.

At Stourport we went through the narrow locks up to the top basin where I emptied the loo. Then through the lock out of the basin and moored for the night.

Went to the Angel to eat but they weren't doing food so after a pint there we moved on to the Hollybush where they had a very limited menu but a good selection of beers.

Thursday 5th July

Worcester to Droitwich Spa

Set off before 830 and made swift progress up all the locks to Tibberton. We had decided to carry on to Hanbury junction but then found on Google that the pub there closed in March, and we thought that the one at Dunhampstead was closed too due to flooding. So we moored at Tibberton and went to the Speed the Plough. This was a good move as the pub has been refurbished and had three beers along with food.

After our early lunch we carried on to Hanbury junction where we turned left to go down the Droitwich canals. To get under the M5 we had to remove the horn and exhaust despite the level indicator being well in the green.

Moored on the secure pontoons Netherwich basin. Filled up with water for the first time since day 1.

Went to the only Cask marque pub in town, the Castle, to eat. Then to the 2 GBG pubs, the Ring of Bells, and finally the Hop Pole.

Wednesday 4th July

Lower Lode to Worcester

Set off at 9am.

Stopped on the floating pontoon at Upton upon Severn. The boat we had been following from Tewkesbury unfortunately moored before us and we had to breast up outside them. We waited till they had finished their lunch on board and left, then we remoored and set off to walk to Hanley Castle. Had lunch in the Three Kings, a lovely old pub in the national inventory, very cheap sandwiches too. After lunch we couldn't find the bus stop so we walked back again.

At Worcester we turned off the river onto the Worcester and Birmingham canal and moored after bridge 2.

Went to the Firefly in the hope of getting something to eat there but no luck. So after a pint there we moved on to Wetherspoons to eat. From there we went to meet Andy J at Foregate Street station. Then we went to the Dragon Inn and finally the Plough.

Tuesday 3rd July

Parkend bridge to the Lower Lode Hotel

Set off just after 8pm with the aim of getting to the Boat Inn at Ashleworth for lunch. However on arrival in Gloucester dock I rang the lock keeper and was told that we could not go upstream because the spring tides had gone over the weir. So we moored and went to try and look at the weir. We found Llanthony lock, which is filled in but there is still a right of navigation through it! We could not get to see the weir because of the wet ground.

Then we went for an early lunch in the Fountain Inn. On our way back we checked the level below the lock and it was now in the amber. Then 3 narrowboats appeared from upstream and we watched them lock up. The lock keeper said we could go when they were out.

Locked down just after 1pm with Mr Sweep. Very slow progress up the east channel, speeded up a bit when we rejoined the main river and eventually got up to 4mph. Our average speed from the upper parting was 3.2 mph.

Moored for the night on the BW floating pontoon at the Upper Lode Hotel. We were the only boat on it apart from the ferry.

The hotel got very busy shortly after we went in but we had got our food order in by then. They had 5 beers for us to choose from.

When went back to the boat there were signs the high tide had arrived. Then a while later it was flowing normally again.

Monday 2nd July

Patch bridge to Epney

A miserable day, very different to what it was like 10 years ago. Set off after coffee time for Sharpness. Moored there and went exploring the old dock. Noted that Balmoral and Waverley do trips that call here, must go on one.

It was too wet to walk to the pub that we had planned to go to so we ate on board.

After the rain had eased we headed back up the canal, stopping to empty the loo at Saul, and moored for the night just short of Parkend Bridge.

Walked into Epney and went to the Anchor Inn to eat and drink. It's right by the river and we saw the tide flow and ebb.

Sunday 1st July

Gloucester to Patch bridge

Left Gloucester at 825 so that we got to the swing bridge before the wind became strong again.

Stopped at Saul junction. We walked up the Stroud canal as far as the first bridge. Then we walked through Saul down to the Severn and back up the old canal to the Ship Inn where we had a nice lunch. After that we walked back on the footpath along the old line of the canal.

After lunch we moved on to Shepherds Patch where we spent the evening in the Tudor Arms.

Saturday 30th June

Up at 8 and went to see the lock keeper. Everything is okay now and Upper Lode lock on the Severn is open again. A Napton hire boat was keen to go after filling with water alongside us. So we decided to lock down with them even though they were going the other way.

We turned to go down the Severn to Gloucester. At Lower Lode lock the gates shut behind us but then reopened. The two narrowboats that had been moored below Tewkesbury lock had caught up with us. One of the women on board was not impressed to be told by the lock keeper that the river level was in the red.

After getting out of the lock they soon overtook us. Later when I phoned Gloucester lock from the upper parting he said that he was holding the other two boats in the lock until we got there.

Once in the docks we moored on one of the short pontoons. Went to the Pig Inn The City but this has closed permanently. So we went instead to eat at the Dick Whittington which had 4 beers from the Forest brewery in Mitcheldean. Then we tried the Fountain where we noted that they had a more interesting menu.

In the afternoon we set off to get to Saul but when we got to Hempstead bridge the keeper told us that it was too windy for him to open it! After waiting for a while he told us that he would open it at 530. However that would have been too late for us to get to Saul as we would not be able to get through Parkend bridge before 7pm. So we turned around and went to moor on the visitors moorings south of Llanthony bridge.

In the evening we went to the Fountain to try some of their interesting menu choices. We both had Sussex smokies as a starter. Then we went to the New Inn which had karaoke. Then we popped in the Cross Keys but that was noisy and only had one beer. So we went to the Dick Whittington again to try some more Forest beers.

Friday 29th June

Evesham to Tewkesbury

I was woken up very early by various cleaning operations in the gardens.

During the night the water level rose a bit and just started to go over the quayside, but by morning it had  dropped back to the level it had been at 11pm last night. So we set off as planned at 8am.

The cable for Hampton Ferry was raised so I blew the horn three times and nothing happened. I tried again and still nothing happened so I had to turn around to face the current and wait. I tried the horn again and this time the cable dropped and we carried on.

When we got to Fladbury lock the indicator below the lock was showing 1ft of flood. After a bit of deliberation we decided to carry on.

At the next lock the level indicator below it was well in the green! So we carried on and moored at Pershore recreation ground. Went to the Brandy Cask for lunch.
 
On the way back to the boat we got some essential supplies.

When we got to Strensham lock the level indicator was amber. I rang Avon lock at Tewkesbury and asked if it was safe to proceed to Tewkesbury. He said it was in the amber there too and he had one mooring space left. So we carried on to Tewkesbury and moored on the water point for the night as instructed.

Went to eat in the Nottingham Arms. After that we checked out the Bell Hotel but decided to skip that and went to the Royal Hop Pole Hotel, a very interesting Wetherspoons. Finally we went to the Olde Black Bear.

Thursday 28th June

Billington lock to Evesham

Today we just went as far as Evesham. On arrival we moored at Packington Gardens and headed off to catch a bus to Bretforton where went for lunch at the Fleece Inn.

In the evening we went to eat in the Old Red Horse. Then to the Trumpet which is now run by Hook Norton and had three of their beers. After that we went to Bar 24 to sample some beer from the Evesham brewery. They just had one beer which was cheap but disappointing.

When we got back to the boat the river had risen and wasn't far below the level of the quayside. We checked the EA website and that showed that the level had risen but was levelling off. So we loosened the lines a bit and retired to bed. I was kept awake by people in the park talking till gone 1.30am.

Wednesday 27th June

Set off at 830 and we were the first boat going south.

Stopped at the boatyard on the outskirts of Stratford. They don't sell river licences but I did fill up with diesel there. They are now part of Valley cruisers.

There was one space left in Banford basin so we occupied that and purchased a 7 day licence for the Avon. Went to the West End pub for lunch.

After lunch we locked down onto the river and headed downstream. Although we wanted to get to Bidford we thought that the moorings would be full so we stopped at the last lock upstream.

There were 2 narrowboats moored there already and a guy on one of them confirmed our suspicions about Bidford as they had come upstream and been unable to moor there.

Walked into Bidford and went to The Frog to eat, it was steak night and there was a rock academy competition taking place. After that we checked out the New Saxon but their one beer pump was full of cleaning fluid. So we went to the Old Bull which has cask marque approval.

Tuesday 26th June

Through the Lapworth link and turned left to go down the Stratford canal, stopping briefly at the sanitary station.

Moored at Preston Bagot and went for lunch at the Crabmill, which is part of the same small group of Lovely Pubs gastropubs as the Boot Inn.

Moored for the night at Wilmcote. Went first to the Masons Arms which only had one real ale. We ate there and then moved on to the Mary Arden Inn which had three national real ales.

Monday 25th June

Set off in time to arrive at the bottom of Hatton locks before 9. No boats in sight behind or ahead so we started up the flight. Unfortunately all the locks were full so someone must have been up before us. After a while we started meeting boats coming down so then they were all empty.

Moored after the top lock and walked back to the Hatton pub, which has recently been refurbished and renamed, and is now more upmarket. They had a choice of 4 real ales.

After lunch we pottered on to Kingswood junction. Here we moored immediately past the junction so that we could back up and turn into the Lapworth link.

Went to the Navigation Inn which has just been refurbished so was not doing food yet. They had a beer called Lapworth Gold from Byatts, the new Coventry brewery. Then we went to the Boot Inn which has a choice of 3 real ales and the food was still excellent.

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Sunday 24th June

I found the source of last nights leak. It's where a screw goes through.

Set off by 930, dry and sunny spells.

At the first lock, Bascote staircase, we were joined by hotel boat Periwinkle, and we shared locks all the way to Leomington Spa.

In Leomington we had a small lunch on board and then went to the Talbot Inn, where we were the only customers for a while. Then we moved on to the Somerville Arms.

After that we continued our cruise to Warwick. I rang ahead to the Saltisford Arm and booked a mooring there. However there were plenty of moorings near the Cape.

After mooring in Saltisford we walked back to the Cape where we discovered that we were too late to eat there. So after one pint there we moved on the Thomas Lloyd to eat and then on to the Old Fourpenny Shop.

 

Saturday 23rd June

Set off shortly after 8. Dry and windy with sunny spells. Passed through Braunston junction without any delays due to the historic boat show.
We turned right at Braunston towards Napton. Moored at bridge 102 and walked up the hill to Flecknoe where we had lunch in the Old Olive Bush.

After lunch we turned right at Napton junction.

At Stockton locks we took advantage of help from a family and make quick progress down the 9 locks.

Moored just past the bridge near Long Itchington. We went to the Harvester pub to eat, no not one of those! It's been in the GBG for a very long time. Then on to try the Green Man which I have not been to before but is now in the GBG. This was busy with locals.

We had already checked the beer range in the Buck and Bell which is now sporting a Les Routier. plaque. We decided not to try the Duck on the Pond as it is a Charles Wells pub as is the Two Boats which is in the GBG.

We checked out the Cuttle Inn, but a live band was about to play so we went to the Two Boats instead.

Friday 22nd June

Departure from home delayed by UPS delivery which arrived just after 1pm. Shopping in Sainsburys, Rugby. On arrival at the marina I tried to drain water tank prior to refilling it, but failed and set off for the water point in Rugby.

Made good speed due to the high level of water and lack of moving boats. Ian met me at the water point where we filled up in record time.

Then moved through the bridge and moored opposite the visitor moorings. Walked into town using the rebuilt footbridge over the railway and went to eat in the Lawrence Sheriff. After that we went to the Raglan Arms which was quiet, the Merchants Inn which was busy, and the Alexandra Arms, also quiet. The Merchants no longer has dual spout handpumps.

I was kept awake by the revellers on the hire boat near us.

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Sunday 10th October

Hawkesbury to Brinklow

Set off after 9 and we were back in the marina by 1pm. Stopped en route at Stretton to replace both gas cylinders.

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Saturday 9th October

Shackerstone to Hawkesbury

Left at 815. We heard some activity and saw some smoke from the Battlefield railway but did not see any trains. Stopped to empty the loo at Sutton Wharf.

Moored at Stoke Golding on the offside moorings north of the village and walked to the White Swan for lunch. They were selling off the beers from a beer festival they had held at £1.50.

Stopped at Trinity marina to try to get gas but with no success. I did buy some wood Fuelogs to try.

At Marston junction we turned south for Sutton stop and when we got where we turned off through the stop lock onto the Oxford canal and moored for the night just round the corner.

Went to the Greyhound to eat where we both had the Chicken Bacon and Mushroom Pasta which I had so enjoyed last Sunday.

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Friday October 8th

Hinckley to Shackerstone

Before setting off I adjusted the stern gland to try to reduce the water ingress. Also put the 2 gallons of waste oil into the diesel tanks.

Set off at 845 and stopped at Market Bosworth for lunch. Walked into town to the Red Lion where they had a beer festival on so all 10 handpumps were in use.

After lunch we carried on to the end of navigation where there is a short section on newly restored canal in water but blocked off with a temporary bridge. Winded there and headed back to Shackerstone.

Only the one pub here, the Rising Sun, and although it is in the Good Beer Guide, most of the beer was disappointing. The restaurant was quite good and we had 2 courses for a change.

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.