"Barge-Canal Holiday" West Midlands by Sandy37

The four of us thought we would try this for a holiday. You must be fit. We girlies took charge of the locks-armed with our windlasses and the boys did the steering etc., Well you must be completely sober for at least 8 hours per day. The seasoned "bargees" do not like it much when amateurs take their water, but that is life- give what you get, especially if you have respect for the water and areas.

work, girlies, work

We, Val and myself opened and closed over 70 locks on our 10 days "holiday". We had muscles like popeye at the end. Seriously though, this was well worth it. The scenery, peace and quiet, then nightlife in the evening. We hired our Jade from the Wyvern Co in Bedfordshire, they were great, they give you a half hour tuition and then send you on your way. Its easy, you soon learn it when you are thrown in at the deep end.hehe.Thoroughly enjoyable and would do it again.

Oh god........

This tunnel was over three miles long- apparently eveyone who goes on a barge WANTS to go through this tunnel, well, let em' I say. We had to go through twice, once outward and then the return. We did it, thats all I wish to say on the subject. Make sure you WANT this experience, its hairy to say the least, bouncing off the side of the walls is a laugh though.Darkness is very eery.

• Pros:Fantastic experience, a laugh a minute.
• Cons:Get fit!!!!
• In a nutshell:Breathless.......................