Ajs1001

Hi. On Wednesday the narrowboat that went through Aldermaston Lift Bridge No 28 before us left their key in the operating box. We ran to catch up with them in the lock to return the key to them. However we accidently gave them ours rather than theirs. No problem apart from the fact that there is an additional small key on their key ring. If the owner would like to make contact we will return this key to them.

Very many thanks to everyone who made suggestions - we really appreciated the ideas. In the end we went for a Canterbury 3 seat sofa. It is large 3 seat sofa which easily converts into a double size bed. A very comfortable sofa (which was our main requirement) that folds down into a comfortable bed. It was a bit of a gamble buying it as the factory was so far from our house and boat that we had to buy it on the basis of the description only. However we are really pleased with it, and would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a sofabed for their narrow boat. https://www.sofabedbarn.co.uk/sofa-beds/11-canterbury-3-seat.html

Many thanks to everyone for taking the time to reply (and so quickly!) - I really appreciate it. There are some great suggestions, so I am sure that we will now be able to buy one. As we get more experienced I look forward to being able to help others rather than just ask for help!

Many thanks - that was quick! When I looked at the Nabru website it shows the dimensions as in the diagram below:- The 180cm depth of the bed is fine but the whole back to front depth of 235cms is wider than my cabin. Other people have recommended Nabru, and the company market the beds as suitable for narrowboats so I am a bit worried that I am missing something?

Hi, Can anyone help us please? We want to buy a freestanding sofabed for our narrowboat. We are looking for something that will mainly be used as a sofa by the 2 of us, and for occasional use by guests. For that reason we want it to be a really comfortable sofa. Does anyone know of manufacturers of any sofabeds that fit this description. Each time I try and search the internet for one they seem to big to fit the width of the boat when the bed is pulled out. Many thanks.

Many thanks everybody. First time I have used this forum, and it is obviously a massively useful resource that I will now follow and contribute to.

Many thanks Paul - really appreciate your quick response.

Hi. Fairly new to owning a narrowboats. We have just cruised the Oxford canal, and now need to cruise down the Thames from Oxford to the Kennet Junction in Reading. The Environment Agency gives the time it takes between locks on the Thames in minutes. These timings are based on a speed of 5mph. If I planned my trip using these timings and an extra 15 mins per lock would this be realistic? Thanks in advance to anyone who can advise.