Paula Syred and the Fox Family

Cruise Moor is delighted to announce three more independent family run marinas have joined its unique mooring scheme.

Lechlade, Shepperton and Fox Narrowboats are the latest trio of marinas to sign up to the scheme bringing the grand total of participating marinas to Cruise Moor to nine.

Officially launched in 2024 at Boatlife in Birmingham by Aqueduct (Middlewich Branch of the Shropshire Union), Dunchurch Pools (North Oxford Canal), Droitwich Spa (Droitwich Junction Canal), Overwater (Shropshire Union Canal) and White Mills (River Nene), the scheme which offers boaters one free weeks mooring at each participating marina has been set up to encourage more boaters to get out and about and explore the waterways network. Fenny Marina on the southern arm of the Oxford Canal became the sixth marina to join late last year.

Ian and Jules Lindsay spent four years looking for their own marina before buying 100 berth Lechlade Marina in 2018.  With its large slipway it is a popular launch point for Wilderness, Sea Otters and other trailable boats wanting to cruise the Thames. Ian said, “To join a scheme which actively promotes independent family run marinas is brilliant for us. We all care deeply and value our customers, so by joining Cruise Moor it is another way of showing our customers how much we appreciate them.”

Ian’s sentiments are echoed by Paula Syed who with her sister Tracey and daughter Emily operate their 200 berth marina Fox Narrowboats on the Middle Levels.  Founded by their father in 1980, Paula is a firm advocate of independent and family run businesses. “Everyone should be encouraging all boaters to use the entire waterways network, hopefully Cruise Moor will help do exactly that especially as more marinas sign up. We are very happy to be part of this exciting new initiative and look forward to welcoming boaters to our part of the waterways network.”

The third family run marina to join the scheme is the 400 berth Shepperton Marina located on the River Thames between Shepperton and Sunbury locks.

Marina Manager Lisa Harris added, “We were drawn to join Cruise Moor because of its strong commitment to supporting boaters and independent marinas alike. The initiative not only promotes responsible mooring practices but also provides well-maintained mooring spots.  By partnering with independent marinas, Cruise Moor helps boost independent businesses while making it easier for boaters to explore beautiful waterways. We believe this initiative will greatly benefit the boating community, fostering a sense of connection and sustainability for years to come.”

More About Cruise Moor

Join the Cruise Moor Scheme. Get 1 weeks free mooring. Choose from 9 or more independent marina’s. Learn more

The post Three more for Cruise Moor. appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Stock: gardening on canal boat flowers

Living on a narrowboat offers a unique and often idyllic lifestyle that can have significant, positive impacts on both physical and mental health. Your floating home can provide a tranquil and peaceful environment, far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It can also present its own set of challenges.

Physical activity

Narrowboat living might involve a greater level of physical activity. Tasks such as tying up to moor, lifting supplies and working the locks require strength, flexibility, and balance. So, it’s important to balance physical effort with relaxation and avoid overexertion.

Added to these challenges, working and living in the confined space of a narrowboat can make it challenging to maintain good posture and ergonomics. Consider this when choosing or replacing your fixtures and fittings, using ergonomic furniture where possible. Taking regular breaks to stretch and move around, is even more important than when living on land, where movement is less restricted. If amenities are limited on your narrowboat, tasks such as emptying a cassette toilet, might also require more physical effort.

Healthy diet planning

More planning may be needed when thinking about sourcing healthy food. With limited space for storage, and restricted access to nearby shops, it’s good to buy smaller portions of fresh produce and prepare meals from scratch. This can lead to a more balanced and nutritious diet. Try some tasty ideas from the Narrowboat Chef:

credit: narrowboat chef creme-brulee

credit: narrowboat chef fruit smoothee

credit: narrowboat chef Marsala Poached Pears

Savoury

www.narrowboatchef.com/recipes/savoury-recipes/

Sweet

www.narrowboatchef.com/recipes/sweet-recipes/

Narrowboat Gardening

You may even consider growing and preserving your own food, if you have the space. Roof gardens to grow vegetables and plants are a joy to see on narrowboats. Gardening presents some fun challenges with use of space, drainage what will grow best in a minified environment. Generally all plants need to be potted, fixed pots on the deck or hanging baskets tied to the handrail. Growth should be planned around the seasonal weather changes and boat maintenance. Primroses & hyacinths make colourful flowers on a boat they look their best January through to March. Strawberries are a great idea but may attract some flying guests.

Here is a lovely insightful guide to gardening on a narrowboat

www.awholeplottalove.com/gardening-on-a-boat

Carolyn Shearlock is a creative cruiser with over 17 years and 13,000 miles on boats. Her guide to a boat garden includes custom DIY designs for pots.

www.theboatgalley.com/diy-boat-garden

Canal boat’s website ideas to creatively style your narrowboat

Relaxation and peace of mind

 “spending time by water, and canals in particular, is good for your health and wellbeing”

The tranquil and peaceful nature of narrowboat living can significantly reduce stress levels. Being surrounded by water and the constant exposure to nature can create a sense of calm and relaxation. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve mood. One study created by researchers at King’s College London revealed that spending time by water, and canals in particular, is good for your health and wellbeing. Data was gathered from an app that measures people’s experiences living in rural and city environments

The Urban Mind App

If living alone living aboard a narrowboat can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, especially in remote areas. However there is a strong sense of community among narrowboaters and visiting local towns and villages or keeping contact via online social media communities such as the Narrowboat Owners Facebook Group you can maintain a sense of belonging.

Other mental health boosts include practising, yoga or mindfulness or relaxation from reading or listening to music. Establishing a daily routine can also help you feel more grounded.

Local GP registration

You are entitled to register with a G.P., even as a continuous cruiser of no fixed address. You can register with any GP in your local area as a temporary resident, as long as they have space for new patients. By understanding the potential challenges and planning proactive steps to address them, you can enjoy a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle living aboard your narrowboat.

Trial your Narrowboat life

If your interested in living on a narrowboat then why not take a Fox narrowboat for a 2 week holiday and really experience the day to day exploration, wellbeing and chores!

Book a 14 night boat holiday

The post Narrowboat Healthy Life – Cooking Gardening Staying Fit & Peace Of Mind appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Ah, the quieter waterways of Cambridgeshire and Norfolk, where narrowboats glide gracefully along wide picturesque rivers, under big skies, offering a unique way to explore the county’s hidden gems. Whether you’re a seasoned skipper or a first-time boater, mastering the art of narrowboat etiquette will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise. From sharing the space, to respecting the environment, there are a few written and unwritten rules that ensure harmony on the water. Here at Fox Narrowboats we have qualified instructors that will give you full training during the boat handover, but in the meantime these tips and insights will help you to navigate the Fenland waterways with confidence and courtesy. So, grab a windlass, mind your manners, and let’s embark on a voyage of discovery!

1. Share the Space: When passing other canal boats in the Fens, slow down, smile, nod and wave, and keep your distance. Stay on the right side of the waterway unless there’s a sign saying otherwise.
2. Beep the Horn: In narrow stretches of the waterways, especially around blind corners, and at bridges, you can give a brief toot on your horn as a precaution, alerting any approaching boats from the opposite direction. Despite the slower pace, narrowboats can still get into accidents if you’re not careful. If you need to do an “emergency stop” it takes ages – as if in slow motion! Put the engine into reverse if you need to stop suddenly.
3. Easy Does It: Keep your speed down to under four miles per hour; more like walking pace. It’s enjoyable to travel slowly and take in the sights, but it’s also expected, as it causes less disturbance to other users of the waterways. Travelling too fast produces a breaking wash that can disturb moored boats and birds’ nests, and wear away the riverbank. It’s good etiquette to pass moored boats at tickover.
4. Teamwork at Locks: When you arrive at a lock, offer a hand to anyone already using it. Wait your turn, be patient, and make sure you leave the lock ready for the next boaters. This means wind down the paddles and close the gates behind you, unless you can see another boat approaching: Then you can leave the gates open for them to easily enter the lock. Locks can be a social place where you get to chat to other boaters and find out where they’ve been and where they’re headed. If the lock is wide enough for two boats, it’s good etiquette to save water by sharing the lock with another boat that is going in the same direction as you. Wasting water can lead to low water levels, which may even ground boats.

Don’t moor overnight on the bollards at a lock; these are just for those waiting to use the lock. Use the mooring pins provided with the boat, or a designated visitor mooring. You don’t need to learn any fancy mooring knots, we’ll teach you an easy one!

5. Keep It Quiet: Keep the tunes and your voices down low, especially after dark. Remember, sound travels over water, so keep things peaceful for everyone nearby. Some boats are homes and families could be sleeping. The waterways are known for their serenity!
6. Trash Talk: Put your domestic rubbish in the designated bins at the proper canal-side disposal points. You shouldn’t need to empty the toilet tank, this will be done at our boatyard, or you can use a facility with an appropriate sewage disposal point, and never into the canal or river. Using recycling facilities helps the environment. If you leave bags of food waste on deck overnight the local wildlife may think you are offering them a free buffet!

These six canal etiquette tips can keep you and your crew safe and stop you from making some simple mistakes on your first narrowboat holiday. But before you arrive at our marina, you could also check out these basic boating tips on our blog. Do You Make These Three Boating Mistakes?

Feeling ready to take the plunge? Choose the boat that suits the size of your crew here: Fox holiday fleet.

Don’t miss more articles about what to see and do when narrowboating in the Fens: Sign up to follow this blog in the sidebar on the right.

The post A Guide to Narrowboat Etiquette: Making the Most of Your Fox Narrowboats Experience appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Are you looking for an unusual gift idea this Mothering Sunday?

Something more original than flowers or chocolates?

A present for a mother who loves the canals?

If your mum, wife, or gran is a lady who enjoys narrowboating, or dreams of getting afloat, then consider getting her a book revealing the quirks and charms of parenting on board.

#NarrowboatBooks #WaterGypsies #Annie Murray #NarrowMargins #MarieBrowne #RamlinRose #SheilaStewart

When my children were young we lived on board a narrowboat, so I loved seeking out stories about mothers on canal boats; and it was even better if they were true to life.

Water Gypsies by Annie Murray

The historical novel, ‘Water Gypsies’ by Annie Murray is a sequel to ‘The Narrowboat Girl’, but I was told that the canals do not actually feature that much in the first book, so I went straight for the sequel. Water Gypsies begins in 1942 and describes a series of tragedies that befall the heroine, who is tormented by a miserable past! The story follows Maryann, her husband and children as they live and work on their canal boat, the ‘Esther Jane’.\

Narrow Margins by Marie Browne

In contrast, Marie Browne’s ‘Narrow Margins’ is a modern tale of a family aboard, trying to make a new start after losing their IT company and large house when Rover went bust. They moved their children and dog onto a ramshackle narrowboat called ‘Happy Go Lucky’ and taught themselves about narrowboat life and boat refurbishment as they went along. She has since written several sequels about their family’s adventures afloat. This is a fun read that details the challenges of living aboard a ‘fixer upper’!

For Better For Worse, For Richer For Poorer

I also enjoyed reading ‘For Better For Worse, For Richer For Poorer’ by Damian and Siobhan Horner. This husband and wife team wrote a memoir about leaving their careers and lives ashore, to travel the French canals with their two young children. Told in two voices, this mid-life crisis story follows their journey on an old fishing boat.

Ramlin Rose by Sheila Stewart

However, my favourite book about mums on board is ‘Ramlin Rose’, by Sheila Stewart. Recommended to me by another live-aboard mum, this book reveals the details of day to day life for a hardworking family in the cargo-carrying canal age. Sheila Stewart had wanted to interview a Banbury boatwoman and write her biography, but ended up compiling a number of true stories into a fictional life story. As so many boaters were illiterate back then, there is no autobiography written by a boatwoman. So this is the closest thing you will get to a mother’s perspective of parenting on board, while working the boats. Although the days were long, and the work was hard, and sometimes dangerous, there was a good sense of community. When the men went to canal-side pubs, they’d be moored alongside other families, and while the women minded the children on board they could catch up with their temporary neighbours moored next door.

“’Spite of all you hears about ‘drunken boatwomen’ most of ‘em was content of ‘n evenin to loose their chaps orf to the pub while they stayed tied to their kiddies and the cabin. It was a chance for Mum to catch oop on her chores ready for mornin and catch oop with news of the Cut with the women moored alongside.”

• ‘Ramlin Rose’, Sheila Stewart

If reading narrowboat books gets your mother in the mood for boating, then a family boat trip on the Cambridgeshire Waterways could be just what you are looking for. Why not plan an unforgettable day-trip to our hire boat base in March? The whole family can have a go at steering the day boat, and spend some quality time together. Boating is an activity that suits all generations, and you can include a picnic, a pub lunch or some fish and chips in your day out.

In 2022 the Mother’s Day falls on Sunday March 27th, and the Fox boating season begins in April. If you book a day-trip now you could surprise your mum with this idea on Mothers Day. Read more: The Ultimate Mother’s Day Surprise

Get more canal-themed tips and stories by signing up for our blog updates. Subscribe on the right, by email. (We never share or sell email addresses, we’ll only be sending you our local, insider knowledge, every two weeks.)

Photo credit: Deposit photos

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Visit the Cambridgeshire Fens the official guide

The Great Fen Website, what to see and how to support the project

Fens For The Future an in depth website about Fenland restoration

There are many people moving out of the cities in search of fresh air and a reconnection to nature. The Fens in East Anglia, The Broads and the North Norfolk coastline are tranquil open spaces crammed packed with nature reserves and outdoor places to explore. Here are a selection websites dedicated to Fenland Area, Britains largest manmade landscape.

Find out what you can see, how to support or get involved in restoration projects to help preserve the future of a beautiful, raw, open countryside.

Visit Cambridgeshire Fens

www.visitcambridgeshirefens.org

The official guide to the fens has a large list of “things to do” focused on towns; March, Whittlesey, Wisbech, Chatteris and villages; Coldham, Elm, Friday Bridge, Gorefield.

Museums & Historic Houses

Included is a list of Fenland museums highlighting the West Norfolk Aviation Museum displays of aircraft, aviation archaeology and more from World War I to the Falklands and Iraq wars. Discover the ancient market town of Chatteris. Its museum has artifacts from the earliest prehistoric settlements to recent times with over 600,000 years of human history. Historic houses include Octavia Hills Birthplace and Peckover House in Wisbech.

Great Fen Website

www.greatfen.org.uk

The Great Fen is an expanse of nationally significant fen landscape between Peterborough and Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire boasting 2 nature reserves Holme & Woodwalton Fens. In 2010 5 organisations came together to form a big fens restoration plan and connect the reserves. There is a very informative guide to wildlife, each creature has its own page and how to identify it. The sites to visit are well documented with map showing trails & car parking. Why not get involved in supporting this great project by donating, volunteering or even taking part in the Big Wild Walk.

Fens For The Future

www.fensforthefuture.org.uk

This website has a colourful map with Historical Interest, Natural Heritage & Nature and Drainage history. It goes into detail about the environmental challenges the area is facing now and has in depth proposals for the enhanced ecological future of the area. Included is a list of conservation partner projects.

Explore the Fens on a Narrowboat

Fox Narrowboats are nestled in the centre of the Fenland areas. We are directly connected to the Fenland waterways. We offer Day Boat Hire and Narrowboat holidays for short breaks, a week or more from April to September. Go to our booking page or phone our friendly reception on 01354 652770

The post 3 Good Guide Websites to the Fens and its Future appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Northampton –

Becket’s Well

Becket’s Park is named after Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury notoriously murdered in Canterbury Cathedral. Henry II had summoned Becket to appear before a great council at Northampton Castle in October 1164, to answer allegations of contempt. Becket drank from a well on the edge of the park. Convicted on the charges, Becket stormed out of the trial and fled to the Continent. In 1170 Becket returned to England, and further upset the King causing him to speak the words “will no-one rid me of this turbulent priest”, which resulted in Becket’s murder on 29 December 1170. These days there are water points available and drinking unprocessed water is not recommended !

Fotheringhay – worth a visit

fotheringhay church

This was the site of Fortheringhay Castle which has been very significant in English History. Richard III was born there in 1452 Mary, Queen of Scots, was tried and beheaded in 1587. The castle was razed in 1627, and there is nothing left other than the motte on which it was built which is worth climbing for the excellent views of the river Nene.

Views of the village are dominated by a particularly fine Perpendicular style church, dating in parts to the 15th Century. At the time of writing, the Church is unfortunately masked by scaffolding.

A local farmer charges for mooring.

Lilford Hall

As you pass through Lilford Lock and under the picturesque bridge you are entering Lilford Estate which is crowned by a Grade I listed, 15th Century, stately home. Although not open to the Public, the views through the trees of the grand house remind one of days long gone ! Remember to ‘doff your cap’ or ‘tug your forelock’ if you pass anyone on the bank who might possibly be aristocracy !

Wansford in England

Wansford is beautiful village largely built of mellow Northamptonshire Stone. The old bridge which carried the Great North road (a.k.a. the A1) past the Haycock Inn dates from 1600 and is a scheduled ancient monument.

The Haycock Inn is named from the story of an unfortunate traveller who, wary of sleeping in any Inn because of plague, spent the night in a hayrick. The river rose in the night and the traveller woke to find himself floating down the Nene. He asked a traveller on the riverbank where he was, and upon hearing the reply “Wansford”, asked, “Wansford in England?”. The name stuck, though the local Inns are now, we hope, plague free !

The next bridge carrying the rerouted A1 was constructed in 1929. For those of us who appreciate such odd things as cast concrete, its structure is particularly fine, including the words cast into it “County of Soke of Peterborough”.

The final bridge, which accommodated a second carriage way for the A1 was built in 1975. There has been a river crossing in Wansford since Saxon times, and the three bridges neatly summarise a large part of the history of bridge building.

Wansford Station – worth a visit

Nene Valley Railway, Wansford

The river meanders round a great bend after Wansford, before you come to floating moorings from which you can access Wansford Station (actually in Sibson). This is the headquarters of the Nene Valley Railway. An absolute must to visit ! The home of Thomas the Tank Engine and a host of historic steam engines, you can ride to Peterborough enjoying a line that has, over the years,  been used for filming, amongst many others, Secret Army, a Queen rock video, Middlemarch, Goldeneye, and Murder on the Orient Express.

Peterborough – Flag Fen worth a visit

Flag fen is one of the most important surviving Bronze Age sites in England, and possibly in all Europe ! It is home to a unique ancient wooden monument, a kilometre long wooden causeway and platform, perfectly preserved in the wetland. This was built and used by the Prehistoric fen people 3,500 years ago as a place of worship and ritual. 60,000 upright timbers and 250,000 horizontal planks are buried under the ground along with many swords and personal items given as offerings to the watery fen. These are on display in a visitor centre and give an unique insight into Bronze Age life.

It is a short walk North of the river Nene from the spectacular new Shanks Millenium Foot Bridge East of Peterborough. There are no dedicated moorings but ‘improvised’ mooring shouldn’t be difficult.

Ramsey Rural Museum – worth a visit

Ramsey Dock moorings

This quintessentially English, independent museum, contains an eclectic mix of articles from bygone ages. It evokes glorious memories of a past of village fetes and strawberries and cream.

Open from April through to October, all day on Thursdays, and in the afternoon on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays. Nearest moorings are either on the 40ft navigation near The George P.H. at Ramsey Forty Foot (2 miles away, but down a country road without a footpath) or on Ramsey High Lode, (1.4 miles away, past a 15th century Gothic gatehouse to a former Abbey)

Holme post – point of interest

Holme Post stands on the lowest land point in Great Britain at 9 ft below mean sea level. In 1851 it was decided to drain Whittlesey Mere (a boggy lake), and a 12ft cast iron post was driven vertically into the peat until the top of it was buried with its top level with the ground. The post was probably a reject casting originally intended for the Great Exhibition. As the peat dried the ground shrank and the post gradually emerged. Today all 12ft of the post is exposed, and a six foot extension has been added to the bottom of it.

Fen folk say that a drained mere will sink the height of a man, during the life of a man. Judging from the evidence of the now exposed post, the ground has sunk 18ft in 166 years, which rather confirms this old rule of thumb.

Holme Fen is quite a walk from the nearest navigable watercourse, which itself is quite remote from the main link route, which is why we’ve only included it as a ‘point of interest’, but if, like me, you are an anorak for the quirky and unusual historic artifact, then it’s a ‘must’.

Prickwillow Engine museum – well worth a visit

Formerly known as the Prickwillow Drainage Engine Museum, this is 2 miles up the river Lark from the river Great Ouse, and there are hard moorings close by. Drainage and the reclamation of land from the sea is key to the history of the fens. The museum contains a major collection of large diesel pumping engines, all of which have been restored to working order. The museum is generally open Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays & Tuesdays, in the afternoon, from Easter until the end of September, but it is advised to check their website before planning a visit.

The mystery smell – point of interest

During the high summer of 2017 many people reported a strong smell of cannabis, over a wide area between Denver Sluice and Ely.  Eventually it was revealed that there is a legal cannabis farm (for medical use) at a ‘secret location’ that was probably responsible for the odour. If the lower part of the River Great Ouse appears to contain an unusually ‘high’ number of hippy boaters, it is not that the live aboard population of Cambridge has suddenly relocated, but the search for the fabled ‘Mary Jane’ cannabis farm.

Queen Adelaide – point of interest

The first Oxford v Cambridge boat race took place in 1829 at Henley. The next race was held in 1836 on the Thames in London. The tradition has continued ever since, but only once has the race moved from London.

In 1944 London was judged too dangerous because of the V1 flying bombs and the race was held on the Queen Adelaide Straight near Ely.

Cambridge University have recently built a new boat house North East of Ely and you may well come across them practicing on the waters between Ely and Littleport. Although traditionally known as the ‘light blues’ their oars are now more green, allegedly caused by a past university boatman, who suffering from colour blindness, mixed increasing amounts of green into the paint for the oars over the years.

As always, care should be taken to minimise wash when passing rowing boats, but as an ‘Oxford rowing man’ I do condone the odd “boo” if you pass a Cambridge boat !

Ely Cathedral – well worth a visit

narrowboat holiday ely

The Cathderal is known as the ‘ship of the Fens’ because of its dominant position in the landscape, visible from miles away.  Its origins date back to 672 and the present building was started in 1083. It is an outstanding building, both for its size and detail. The entrance, lady chapel and choir have been described as “exuberant Decorated Gothic” and its most notable feature is the central octagonal tower, with lantern above. If you only visit one cathedral a year, this is the one to visit !

Ely has good moorings, and overstaying boats are regularly moved on, so you have a good chance of finding a mooring in this vey city.

Streatham Old Engine – worth a visit

Stretham Old Engine

Stretham Old Engine is a steam-powered engine on the Old West River, about 6 miles up river from Ely. There are decent moorings. The engine was used to pump water from flood-affected areas of The Fens back into the river Great Ouse. It will be open to the public on 18 afternoons in 2018, so it is advisable to check their website for opening dates.

Huntingdon – Hinchingbrooke House – worth a visit

Is an historic house built around an 11th-century Benedictine nunnery. After the Reformation it was owned by Oliver Cromwell, and later the Earls of Sandwich. The house is part of a school, and is also a wedding and conference venue, but is open for tours on Sunday afternoons and some bank holidays.

Huntingdon has limited moorings.

St Ives worth a visit

Fithteenth Century Chapel

The bridge in St Ives, and the chapel on the bridge, have about as varied history as any bridge possibly could ! The bridge is generally Gothic with pointed arches, other than two mismatched rounded arches. Oliver Cromwell ordered the demolition of  part of the bridge and the installation of a draw bridge, to hold back Charles 1st’s troops. When they were later rebuilt, they didn’t match. The building on the bridge was a chapel up until the dissolution of the monasteries, and since then has been a private house, a doctors surgery and a pub, called Little Hell.

There are three different sets of good moorings in St Ives.

You may be interested in our blog post Old River Port St Ives

Health Warning – Huntingdon & St Neots

Huntingdon’s most famous son, Oliver Cromwell, was in part responsible for the death of the only English King to be executed, Charles I. St Neots’ most infamous son, John Bellingham, shot the only English Prime Minister to be murdered in Office, Spencer Percival. The two towns are less than 10 miles apart and it is said that although their residents are generally hard to upset, but if you do, the results can be severe ! I should know, because, dear reader, I married one !

St Neots –

St Neots originally comprised two settlements Eaton Socon and Eynesbury with a Priory between them.  The name changed to St Neots when locals raided St Neot on Bodmin Moor in Cornwall in 980 and relieved them of their relics of the Saint and brought his bones back, as a ‘tourist attraction’.  There is a mosaic set in the Market Square with a depiction of the world famous Alfred Jewel, made in honour of St Neot for King Alfred, and kept at the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford.

Many places have ‘tall stories’ to tell, but St Neots has the genuine case of the James Toller, “The Eynesbury Giant”. Born in 1798, this unfortunate young man was 5ft 5in tall at the age of 10 and by the time of his death, aged 21, he stood over 8 feet tall.  He is commemorated by a plaque in the town and his story is told in the St Neots Museum.

In 1935 St Neots hit the front page of every news paper, with the birth of the Town’s own ‘fab four’ Ann, Ernest, Paul and Michael Miles, the first surviving quads, ever. They instantly became famous world wide and for years were adopted by Cow & Gate to advertise their products.

If you are wanting to visit these locations by hire boat check out our cruising times guide to help plan your trip.

The post Nene, Great Ouse and Middle Level Navigations – Points of interest, Places to visit appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

‘Olive Emily’ built by Fox Narrowboats and the Old Bedford River

In 2006 the Environment Agency (EA) piled the entrance to Welches Dam Lock near Chatteris. John Revell, owner of ‘Olive Emily, (built by Fox Narrowboats and moored at Foxes Marina) describes the latest campaigning cruise to draw attention to its continuous closure 11 years later and to reinstate a historic route to the Middle Level and beyond.

In November 2017 ‘Olive Emily’ managed to navigate the Old Bedford River from the tidal sluice at Salters Lode to the current head of navigation at Welches Dam lock. Although the Old Bedford is　a statutory navigation first opened in 1637 it remains difficult to access and little used. The only way into the Old Bedford now is via a tricky tidal channel.

A successful trip along the Old Bedford took place in April involving 3 narrowboats, ‘Lily May’ (also built by Foxes and owned by Chris Howes), ‘Ever After’ (Jeff Walters) and myself in ‘Olive Emily’. EA advised us beforehand that it would have been better to make the trip in May.

A second successful trip was made in July by 2 boats (cruiser ‘Marie II’ and ‘Olive Emily’) but on this occasion　 EA strongly advised us to either cancel it or postpone it for 4 months until the scheduled weed cut had taken place in　October.　Therefore I notified EA in October that I wished to navigate the Old Bedford during November. The dates of 13 and 14 November 2017 were confirmed and Chris Howes (‘Lily May’) and Jeff Walters (‘Ever After’) offered to join me in their boats.

On 13 November all three boats locked out of the Middle Level lock at Salters Lode into the tidal Great Ouse. I then attempted to enter the narrow tidal channel leading to the Old Bedford sluice. This looked hopeless because it had not been dredged and was badly silted up. To make matters worse, there was a sand bar right at the entrance with only 3″ of water covering it. Ducks might have been able to enter the Old Bedford ‘on the level’ but I couldn’t.

I therefore turned the boat round and started to dig a channel to the Old Bedford sluice using the propellor in reverse gear. This was repetitive and time consuming but worked and I was able to enter the non tidal river still in reverse just after the tide turned. Chris and Jeff were less fortunate and were unable to follow me which was very disappointing for all concerned including the many onlookers.

Amongst those watching was David Mercer from Project Hereward

We then set off for Welney and moored overnight outside the Lamb and Flag, a short distance from the single guillotine gate which had been raised by EA for this journey. The Lamb and Flag is a great pub with local Elgoods beer, excellent food, fine old photos, large stuffed fish in glass cases, accommodation if we had needed it and a real fire.

At 8 am the next morning we headed off for Welches Dam lock 6 miles away. This is an attractive location with a fine lock-side cottage close to the extensive RSPB Ouse Washes nature reserve. It looked particularly good in the autumn light and we received a warm welcome from one of the residents.

Welches Dam lock remained completely impassable as it has been since 2006 and once again I had no alternative but to turn round and head back via Welney (but missing out the pub this time) to the Old Bedford sluice at Salters Lode. Fortunately, leaving the Old Bedford proved far easier than entering, perhaps because I had already laboriously dug a channel on the way in.

Following discussions with the Middle Level Lock keeper and a member of EA’s Navigation team I reversed ‘Olive Emily’ a short distance into the tidal channel at low water. This enabled them to shut the tidal doors behind me and for ‘Olive Emily’ to rest on soft mud just outside the sluice. Soon after the boat　lifted on the incoming tide and I then reversed into the main tidal river and then (in forwards) re-entered Salters Lode and the Middle Level.

I am pleased to have made 3 trips along the Old Bedford during 2017 and I look forward to the day when the ancient route connecting the rest of the waterways system via Welches Dam Lock (continuously closed by EA since 2006) and Horseway Channel (also EA managed and unnavigable) is fully restored. Re-opening this route would reinstate a cruising ring which includes some of the oldest waterways in the country.

The post Olive Emily and the Old Bedford River appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

In July 2017 two boats, Olive Emily (built by Fox Narrowboats and moored at Fox’s marina) and the cruiser Marie II, successfully navigated the Old Bedford River from the tidal River Ouse at Salters Lode to the current head of navigation at Welches Dam lock. This is an ancient and attractive waterway and a statutory navigation. It is about 14 miles long and is managed by the Environment Agency (EA). There are many difficulties in using this river and some readers will be aware that non tidal access to the Old Bedford ended 11 years ago when EA arbitrarily piled the entrance to Welches Dam lock in 2006.

John Revell, owner of Olive Emily, takes up the story.

“I took part in a trip along the Old Bedford in April 2017 when 3 narrowboats managed to reach Welches Dam. This was the first successful trip by narrowboats since 2006. EA were very helpful and cooperative but had made it clear beforehand that they would have preferred the trip to have been made later in the year. So Lois and Roy Parker (Marie II) and myself gave EA two months’ notice that we would like to make a second voyage in July. The tides seemed right and the dates chosen were just before the main school holidays.

EA (Waterways) acknowledged our request and consulted other parts of EA. One distinct advantage of this was that when we reached Salters Lode we found that EA (Water resources) had asked the local Middle Level Commissioners lock keeper to put more water into the non tidal river. This made the normally tricky access from the narrow tidal stream much easier.

Apart from one big snag the trip to Welches Dam went really well and we returned the following day after stopping overnight close to the excellent Lamb and Flag. A lot of people knew about our trip and commented how good it was to see boats on the river again.

None of this would have been possible without the help and advice from the EA staff we met and the Middle Level lock keeper so what was the big snag?

Out of the blue and at the last minute, EA’s (Waterways) Team Operations Manager, asked for the whole cruise to be called off or delayed until October (four months later) after the next scheduled weed cut had taken place. A similar request for delay had occurred prior to the trip in April 2017, albeit for a different reason and with rather more notice whereas I had been advised that my unsuccessful trip in November 2016 would have been more successful if I had made it earlier in the year.

The lengthy email from EA (Waterways) cited concerns from EA (Fisheries) about low dissolved oxygen from “wind blown accumulations of decaying algae” in one section of the river. EA (Fisheries) were of the opinion that navigating through this in our two boats might give rise to a “significant risk of an environmental (Fish distress /kill) incident. ”

Following discussions with David Venn, Chairman of IWA (Inland Waterways Association) Peterborough Branch, we decided that a proportionate response to this concern would be to continue the planned trip and assess the situation when we reached there as the problem appeared to be very localised (close to the village of Welney).

As we approached Welney we found a short stretch of foul smelling, floating rotting material – see photo. Removing this before we reached there would clearly have benefited everyone and everything. Someone commented that EA appeared to be more concerned about the DO (dissolved oxygen) than the DO (disgusting odour).

We were met by two helpful staff from EA (Waterways) team and we discussed what to do. It was decided that the narrow boat could proceed very slowly and cautiously along the middle of the channel under their close supervision. The cruiser was stuck (see photograph) and so it was pulled through the weed by ropes from the narrow boat again under EA’s close supervision.

Everyone present was satisfied and I am pleased to report that subsequent tests at Welney by EA after the passage and return of our 2 craft showed minimal effect on oxygen levels.

EA had known about the “wind blown accumulations of floating algae” for some time and personally I feel they could have done more to remove it. This was such an obvious environmental problem and leaving it was not in anyone’s interest, least of all the residents of Welney and those who walk, fish, collect eels, and occasionally boat along the river.

I returned to Welney by car 2 weeks later and I am pleased to report that these ”accumulations of wind blown algae” have gone so I wonder whether we were asked to delay our trip for four months until October 2017 for another reason.”

John Revell 15 Aug 2017

Narrowboat Olive Emily

The post Old Bedford cruise 16 and 17 July 2017 – Another Success appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

Currently we have no staff vacancies.

The post staff vacancies appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.

1. Book Now for Spring 2016

If you’ve previously tried a canal boat break in the summer, this year you might like to benefit from the best prices by booking now for spring. A spring narrowboat holiday means that the waterways are less busy, the wildlife are awakening from hibernation and new baby animals and waterfowl are born. Trees blossom and daffodils, primroses and other English flowers unique to the season will brighten your cruise. Also, it’s lovely to have cygnets and ducklings as visitors to your boat. Check out When Swans are Your Neighbours: What You Need to Know. (However, since I wrote that article I have learned that in spring it is best not to feed swans, ducks and geese as their natural diet is best for them.)

2. Try Day Boat Hire

Day boat hire is a wonderfully low-cost way to relax on our beautiful waterways, taking in the scenery and wildlife. With lots of room at the front and rear of the narrowboat everyone can be outside. Our day hire narrowboat has a galley, dinette, toilet and seating for 10 people. It’s an economical alternative to booking a narrowboat holiday, and only 90 minutes from London by train. Book a day boat hire online.

3. Book Online

To get the best deals you can book a canal boat spring break online, it’s easy and may save you time and money.

4. Book Travel Tickets in Advance

You won’t need your car on a narrowboat holiday so some people choose to arrive by train. Rail operators offer quite good deals if you book 12 weeks in advance. Search for tickets to March.

5. All Inclusive Prices

At Foxboats our all-in price includes hire, damage waiver, fuel and gas. An all-inclusive pricing policy makes it easier to budget for your holiday.

More Choice

Our phones are busy in Spring with boats booking up fast, so if you have a particular boat in mind, or a particular date for your holiday then reserve your most suitable boat now to avoid disappointment.

Book Early

Be ahead of the rest; it’s not too early to think about it! There are lots of advantages to planning in advance. The best priced deals are often the first to go so save money by booking your 2016 canal boat holiday early.

Special Offer.

All season 20% off Platinum Fox and Urban Fox booked before 29th February 2016

The post How to Save Money on Your 2016 Narrowboat Holiday appeared first on Fox Narrowboats.