RobinS

Hi All, Suggestions so far seem to be split between Llangollen and the Leeds and Liverpool, so I am looking at available boats for those. A couple of further questions - we will going the week before half term - presumably the Llangollen will not be too busy then? Would it be practical for us to do the Llangollen starting and finishing in Middlewich? There is a suitable looking boat available there, and by starting at the east end it would mean that would'nt have to drive so far to start. On the subject of solid fuel stoves on boats, it had occurred to me that it would nice and cosy if the weather is bad - but most boats with stoves seem to be the larger, more expensive ones - are there smaller two person boats around with stoves? (I did look at "Strumble" mentioned above but it is not available on our dates - we need to start Saturday or Sunday 15th/16th). Finally - there three different stern designs - what are the advantages/disadvantages of each (or does it not matter too much)? thanks Robin

Hi All, Myself and MrsS are planning a one week canal boating holiday in mid-October. We are completely new to canal boats so would appreciate some suggestions on where to go. We are experienced boaters, under sail and power on the Norfolk Broads, and the sea, but never canals so have no experience of locks yet. We are both pretty active and like "doing" rather than just sitting around so I would have thought a route with a fair number of locks would be suitable. Given that it will be mid October, with dark, cold nights, plenty of cosy canalside pubs would be welcomed. I would also say that we generally prefer rural/villages/small towns to cities. We would apprecaite suggestions as to route and start point/hire yard. Looking at availability, I have found suitable boats (size and price wise) at Silsden on the Leeds and Liverpool, on the Llangollen at the Welsh end, at Middlewitch where there seems plenty of choice, also Congleton, and Stone - but we are really open to suggestions.... thanks