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Our Inland Waterways have
retained the atmosphere of an age gone by. Finely
proportioned bridges and lock keepers cottages, exciting
aqueducts and fascinating locks; it is a completely new
world, which few know. Our waterways have a mellow charm all
of their own, and meander through peaceful countryside
revealing places undiscovered by more conventional means of
transport.
Our Barge Cruises give everyone the
opportunity to take part in voyages of exploration into
England’s hidden heritage. This is a holiday for those who
prefer the quieter things in life: the beauty of
ever-changing landscapes, in reflections on still water, in
good food and the company of friendly interesting people.
Whether you are travelling alone or with
friends, from home or abroad, our Barge Cruises offer the
perfect way to relax and enjoy the idyllic surroundings of
our waterways.
There is so much to see and do, and each
cruise is so different, that it is impossible to describe a
typical day. From the moment you step aboard you are in a
world apart from everyday life.
We offer not just a boating holiday, nor a
regimented tour, but a flexible itinerary to cater for your
interests. As Derek says, ‘everything good on board works on
the ‘ish’ principle’. That is to say, breakfast is at 8.15
sharp-ish, lunch may be at one-ish and dinner probably
seven-ish.’ This is because if we are all enjoying a stroll
round a pretty village or a drink in the village pub before
lunch, we aim not to rush you back – we try not to have
inflexible timetables.
The days boating starts at nine-ish, after
a short chat over breakfast about the highlights of that
days cruise. This may include helping work locks or lift
bridges, or walking along a canal towpath. For the
experienced walker, there may be time to venture away from
the water into the surrounding countryside and rejoin
Gallinago further on for lunch. We generally moor for lunch
on board, perhaps at a village wharf or an old waterside
inn.
During the afternoon there may be a castle to visit,
or perhaps you would like tuition from Derek on steering
Gallinago. Many of our guests enjoy painting the tranquil
scenes, while others take pleasure in photography or
observing wildlife from the wheelhouse or bow deck. Those
wanting to simply relax can indulge in an afternoon nap, or
sunbathe on the cabin roof!
In the truly English tradition, tea and
cakes will be served at four-ish and towards evening we will
reach our quiet mooring for the night. Throughout the week,
the nights mooring can vary from an historic town to what we
call ‘ a stop in the sticks’, a mooring in the middle of
nowhere.
A pre-dinner drink in the wheelhouse is
always popular, as the events of the day are discussed. We
are not licensed premises, so you are welcome to bring your
choice of wine and other alcoholic beverages; we have found
that guests each chipping in a bottle of wine (or two)
during the week works very well.
Derek and I join you for our four course evening
meal – a leisurely affair where conversation flows
easily around our large family table. Coffee may be taken in
the wheelhouse, for panoramic views of the sunset. At night,
after a day in the open air and sunshine, the sound of water
gurgling over a lock weir provides a restful backdrop to
sleep. |
Emma
has a natural flair for cooking, so she soon made the
galley her own. She creates an exciting array of dishes, some of
which can be found in her cookbook. While the new galley aboard
Gallinago is to Emma’s specification, if I promise to wash up
properly, she sometimes lets me in to indulge my culinary urges
too! Emma has also built a high reputation for such diets as
Gluten free, Lactose free and Diabetic; the number of repeat
bookings from passengers requiring these diets is testimony to
her success. If you have any questions about your dietary
requirements don’t hesitate to call Emma for a chat.
