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Thursday, 26 September 2013
Saturday, 21 September 2013
The aim today was to get to Harlow. This we did easily by lunch-time and decided to go into the Moorhen pub for lunch.
We emptied the elsan and topped up the water and found a secluded spot just after the moorings to moor up. We decided to stay in this spot for the night which meant it would only be a 6 hour trip back home.
It was nice just to kick back, have a leisurely meal and take in the beauty of the River Stort, our home river.
The aim today was to get to Harlow. This we did easily by lunch-time and decided to go into the Moorhen pub for lunch.
We emptied the elsan and topped up the water and found a secluded spot just after the moorings to moor up. We decided to stay in this spot for the night which meant it would only be a 6 hour trip back home.
It was nice just to kick back, have a leisurely meal and take in the beauty of the River Stort, our home river.
Thursday, 19 September 2013
Sept 13–Day 6
We stayed at the mooring just after Acton Lock, Hackney for the day as we wanted to visit London Zoo.
The Zoo was a little disappointing. Some areas seemed run down and a little tired. The Zoo’s emphasis on conservation didn’t really wash with me and we both came away with mixed feelings.
Pub!! That was the answer and the Fox received it’s second visit in as many days.
The next day it was early up-time as we sought to turn round. This is always a mission in a 58 foot boat, but there are winding holes or turning areas marked on out trusty Nicholson Guide.
We didn’t have to go too far when we saw an opportune turning point not marked. We made a three-point turn and headed back along the Regents canal.
We stopped at Victoria park to allow the dogs a run and had a hearty breakfast, resuming our short journey along the Regents, and then back up Ducket’s Cut to join the River Lee.
The three locks at the end of Ducket’s are extremely hard work with heavy gates and we were glad to cruise along the unending industrial part of the Lee.
We fuelled up at Lee Valley Marina and continued along the Lee during intermittent showers and gusts of wind.
It wasn’t the wind that caused the next major problem. It was the speed of the river entering the lock at Picket’s lock. A feisty lock at the best of times; this time it swung the boat violently against the side of the lock. A crash was heard in the cabin and 3 glasses met their demise!
Narrowboating is a contact sport so we weren't too bothered about yet another scratch on the gunwale.
By the time we reached Waltham Town lock, we were very tired. It was nice to have a shower, light the fire and settle down with a glass of wine.
[Technical]
[Fuel – 75 litres. Full. 60% 40%. £85.]
[Emptied 1 Elsen]
Sept 13–Day 6
We stayed at the mooring just after Acton Lock, Hackney for the day as we wanted to visit London Zoo.
The Zoo was a little disappointing. Some areas seemed run down and a little tired. The Zoo’s emphasis on conservation didn’t really wash with me and we both came away with mixed feelings.
Pub!! That was the answer and the Fox received it’s second visit in as many days.
The next day it was early up-time as we sought to turn round. This is always a mission in a 58 foot boat, but there are winding holes or turning areas marked on out trusty Nicholson Guide.
We didn’t have to go too far when we saw an opportune turning point not marked. We made a three-point turn and headed back along the Regents canal.
We stopped at Victoria park to allow the dogs a run and had a hearty breakfast, resuming our short journey along the Regents, and then back up Ducket’s Cut to join the River Lee.
The three locks at the end of Ducket’s are extremely hard work with heavy gates and we were glad to cruise along the unending industrial part of the Lee.
We fuelled up at Lee Valley Marina and continued along the Lee during intermittent showers and gusts of wind.
It wasn’t the wind that caused the next major problem. It was the speed of the river entering the lock at Picket’s lock. A feisty lock at the best of times; this time it swung the boat violently against the side of the lock. A crash was heard in the cabin and 3 glasses met their demise!
Narrowboating is a contact sport so we weren't too bothered about yet another scratch on the gunwale.
By the time we reached Waltham Town lock, we were very tired. It was nice to have a shower, light the fire and settle down with a glass of wine.
[Technical]
[Fuel – 75 litres. Full. 60% 40%. £85.]
[Emptied 1 Elsen]
Tuesday, 17 September 2013
Sept 13–Day 4
A tiring day today. The locks were hard work, the wind and current were against us and it rained quite heavily in the afternoon.
We started out and got in the wrong lane for the electric lock at Tottenham. That meant it took nearly 40 minutes to go through the heavy manual lock.
We provisioned at Lee Valley Marina, Springfield. This is a handy stop for gas, diesel and water.
Just after we turned onto the Hertford arm we stopped at Rahims cash and carry, another useful stop if you like all manner of Asian food. They had a supply of vegetables and groceries as well.
After the Hertford arm we turned sharp right on to the Regents canal. This part of the Regents canal is also slow with deep locks. Here it rained heavily and we decided to call it a day just after Acton lock. As soon as we moored up the rain stopped!!
Google maps showed us where there was a Tesco Direct – for wine (of course.) On the way back we had to shelter from the rain in The Fox- a great little trendy pub that even allowed our crew members in; Billy and Erin.
We retired for the night with a spaghetti bolognaise meal and glass of vin rouge. Bliss.
Tech details today:
[Gas bottle full – cost £19.99]
[Water full]
[Fuel half – start 3/4]
Sept 13–Day 4
A tiring day today. The locks were hard work, the wind and current were against us and it rained quite heavily in the afternoon.
We started out and got in the wrong lane for the electric lock at Tottenham. That meant it took nearly 40 minutes to go through the heavy manual lock.
We provisioned at Lee Valley Marina, Springfield. This is a handy stop for gas, diesel and water.
Just after we turned onto the Hertford arm we stopped at Rahims cash and carry, another useful stop if you like all manner of Asian food. They had a supply of vegetables and groceries as well.
After the Hertford arm we turned sharp right on to the Regents canal. This part of the Regents canal is also slow with deep locks. Here it rained heavily and we decided to call it a day just after Acton lock. As soon as we moored up the rain stopped!!
Google maps showed us where there was a Tesco Direct – for wine (of course.) On the way back we had to shelter from the rain in The Fox- a great little trendy pub that even allowed our crew members in; Billy and Erin.
We retired for the night with a spaghetti bolognaise meal and glass of vin rouge. Bliss.
Tech details today:
[Gas bottle full – cost £19.99]
[Water full]
[Fuel half – start 3/4]
Monday, 16 September 2013
Sept 13–Day 3
We set off from Waltham Abbey about 10am after a great sleep. The previous evening saw us in a local pub called the Crown; the first pub I’ve been in for a long time that doesn’t do microwaved meals. In fact, I don’t think it did meals at all!
We didn’t hang about too long. Maccy D’s was calling!
M25 seemed at a standstill. we weren’t too bothered as we went underneath it.
The ever present rain didn’t deter the trip as we continued down the Lee through Enfield lock and down towards the industrial area of Tottenham stopping off for a pint at The Navigation (Harvester) pub near Cheshunt.
Billy decided to go for a plunge just before we moored up at Stonebridge Lock. We picked him up quite easily.
We had a little weed around the prop shaft and had to stop just passed Enfield.
Moored up at Stonebridge lock.
(Both Gas bottles empty)
Sept 13–Day 3
We set off from Waltham Abbey about 10am after a great sleep. The previous evening saw us in a local pub called the Crown; the first pub I’ve been in for a long time that doesn’t do microwaved meals. In fact, I don’t think it did meals at all!
We didn’t hang about too long. Maccy D’s was calling!
M25 seemed at a standstill. we weren’t too bothered as we went underneath it.
The ever present rain didn’t deter the trip as we continued down the Lee through Enfield lock and down towards the industrial area of Tottenham stopping off for a pint at The Navigation (Harvester) pub near Cheshunt.
Billy decided to go for a plunge just before we moored up at Stonebridge Lock. We picked him up quite easily.
We had a little weed around the prop shaft and had to stop just passed Enfield.
Moored up at Stonebridge lock.
(Both Gas bottles empty)
Sunday, 15 September 2013
Sept 13–Day One
We left the mooring at Stortford at 1100. Usually we can get to Harlow in a day but the route planner said we should end up in Roydon if we were to make this 8 day trip.
The daily check revealed no problems except the usually prop shaft bolts a little loose. These are tightened every day before we set off for the day. Oil and water are checked too.
It was nice to get beyond Harlow. This is the limit of weekend trips so I won't dwell too much on the first part of the journey.
On going through Roydon lock, we were invited to a lock party. There were a number of other boaters already there. After a bit of dinner we went along and were introduced to Steph, John, Vijay, Harry, Danny & Gill. (Sorry if the spellings are a little out).
We knew Harry from the Moorhen moorings but it was great to meet other boaters on this part of the river. You never know when you need a hand.
Needless to say,we stayed at Roydon lock overnight.
Sept 13–Day One
We left the mooring at Stortford at 1100. Usually we can get to Harlow in a day but the route planner said we should end up in Roydon if we were to make this 8 day trip.
The daily check revealed no problems except the usually prop shaft bolts a little loose. These are tightened every day before we set off for the day. Oil and water are checked too.
It was nice to get beyond Harlow. This is the limit of weekend trips so I won't dwell too much on the first part of the journey.
On going through Roydon lock, we were invited to a lock party. There were a number of other boaters already there. After a bit of dinner we went along and were introduced to Steph, John, Vijay, Harry, Danny & Gill. (Sorry if the spellings are a little out).
We knew Harry from the Moorhen moorings but it was great to meet other boaters on this part of the river. You never know when you need a hand.
Needless to say,we stayed at Roydon lock overnight.
Monday, 9 September 2013
Woodfest 2013
The weekend was Hatfield Forest’s annual event, Woodfest.
This year was bigger, better, and busier. The showers didn’t really dampen any of the proceedings as most of the time the sun was out and it was fine and warm giving JP the opportunity to demonstrate bow drill.
The music during the event was great and the main stage was packed during the evening, and the Morris dancing was a big hit as it usually is here a t Hatfield.
We set out our stall and as soon as we did we were inundated by people looking at out nature exhibits and now famous Table of Death.
This year not only did we have Mr Spock the Ashy-faced Barn owl but also Barny the British Barn owl.
Thanks to everyone who visited the stall especially those who showed and interest in our October Tracking Courses.
Places are going soon, so don’t delay in booking up.
Woodfest 2013
The weekend was Hatfield Forest’s annual event, Woodfest.
This year was bigger, better, and busier. The showers didn’t really dampen any of the proceedings as most of the time the sun was out and it was fine and warm giving JP the opportunity to demonstrate bow drill.
The music during the event was great and the main stage was packed during the evening, and the Morris dancing was a big hit as it usually is here a t Hatfield.
We set out our stall and as soon as we did we were inundated by people looking at out nature exhibits and now famous Table of Death.
This year not only did we have Mr Spock the Ashy-faced Barn owl but also Barny the British Barn owl.
Thanks to everyone who visited the stall especially those who showed and interest in our October Tracking Courses.
Places are going soon, so don’t delay in booking up.
Wednesday, 4 September 2013
A selection of the tried and trusted... updated in 2013 from the 2010 version.
Shelter
Snugpak Stratosphere
A new meaning to bivvying.
DD hammock and Tatonka tarp
The only way to sleep out in summer (or winter).
Tipi/Lavvu
For base camping I use either the Helsport Lavvu light (this can be backpacked it’s so light! - above) or the Helsprt Varanger camp. Both excellent tipi/lavvus.
Sleep
Exped Down Mat
It’s more important to get insulation under you than on top. Exped is the way to go.
Alpkit down bags
Great price - great bag
Clothes
Woolpower base layer
200g is enough to ward of the British winter
Wool and possum fur hat
Great for sitting around the winter fire.
Fjallaven
This is as close to a wide-brim hat as I get!
Hogs of Fife headwear
The Scots know something about weather – so why not?
Woolpower balaclava
Essential winter hammock wear - do not enter banks wearing this.
Snowsled
Not the cheapest ventile about – but if its good enough for Ran Fiennes, it’s good enough for me.
Deer Hunter Gamestalker 2 Smock.
If your going to go cammo – go Deerhunter or Mad Dog. I love this smock for its in-built mossy net and large horizontal front pocket.
Vivo Off-Roads
Excellent boot boot for trackers! No padding or lumps and bumps. As close to barefoot as you’ll get. Brilliant protection from thorns and 100% waterproof.
Buff
Multi-functional head or neckwear. I think I'll get this colour!
Flektarn Army Surplus Trousers
I can’t see the point of spending out lots of dosh for quality trousers when most of the time I’m grubbing about on the floor. These should cost you no more than £15 a time.
Food / Cooking / Water
Bushbuddy stove & Crusader cup
Natural fuel and a stainless receptacle
Mini Trangia
Lightweight and reliable meths cookset . Take the burner out and add it to the tracpac billy and bushbuddy. Voila!
Primus ETA Stove
This is the only gas stove I own. It’s ultra-efficient but tends to be temperamental when the gas is getting low. Good for base-camp stuff.
Primus Litech Frying pan
Probably the most versatile piece cookware you’ll ever have.
Nato water bottle
Mine says 1976. I was issued it when I joined the British Army - and it's still going. Use as a hot water bottle in winter!
Tracpac billy set
What more do you want for £14-00? I use the smallest one. The others can be made into hobo stoves.
Carry
Karrimor Sabre 75
So versatile – add side pockets and you’ve got 100 litres - as long as you're not walking too far!
Camelbak Cloudwalker
Technical lightweight daysack. I always come back to this as a light daysack.
Tools
Frosts Clipper
Excellent knife for under £10 - I still use mine.
Leatherman Charge TTI
Always in my possible pouch.
Bruseletto Leuku
Simple, cheap and effective large knife.
Bahco Folding Saw This is an excellent piece of kit and I never leave home without it. It usually resides in my tool pack or shoulder bag. I tend to use this more than the axe for cutting green wood.
Ganfors Bruks
Still the best axe around.
EKA Nordic W11
Great all round sub-£100 bushy style knife
Utilities
PB 207 blue flame lighter
Saves rubbing two bits of wood together
Alpkit Gamma headtorch.
Red Green and white LEDs in one torch. HOW MUCH!! £12.50! I’ll have two!
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