Day 1
We left Worcester Marina on a warm summer’s early evening at around 6pm. After picking up some supplies, we headed for Diglis Basin and eventually onto the Camp House Inn, near Bevere Lock, the first of the manned locks heading north on the River Severn. It was a steady cruise through the first 2 locks, which we used as an opportunity to teach our friends how it was done.
Luckily, we had the weather on our side. As it was really hot, the River Severn was practically still. There was little to no current on it at all, making for some easy-going relaxing cruising. A short while after being on the Severn, we saw the Pride of Worcester, which is a large leisure cruiser that was also heading in the same direction we were.
Not long after, we arrived at the Camp House Inn where we moored up for our first night. The Camp has always been a popular destination for boaters and non-boaters alike, as there is always something interesting going on. Tonight was no exception, as we were greeted by a group of Morris dancers making the most of the seemingly perfect evening by the river.
Day 2 – The Droitwich Canal
After waking at around 8am, we appeared to have attracted a group of swans. We then cruised toward Bevere Lock, which was in the process of being prepared for us by the lock keeper. Once through, it was time to veer off onto the relatively newly opened Droitwich Canal. By this time, we had already covered ourselves in copious layers of sun cream, though hats would have proved more useful.
The Droitwich Canal is a superb route to follow, taking you through winding bends and narrow reed filled stretches. By taking care and cruising slowly, you are rewarded by the sights, sounds and general atmosphere of the Heart of England’s countryside.
After a few hours of peaceful meandering, we arrived at Vines Park, housing the public gated moorings of Netherwich basin - marking the end of our second thoroughly enjoyable day.
We found a pub called the Railway Inn, however they didn’t do food, and upon a keen recommendation from one of the locals, we headed a short distance to a place called The Gardeners Arms. We were not disappointed, the food we ordered was excellent, as were the drinks.
Day 3 – The Worcester & Birmingham Canal
Our third day took us through the remaining stretch of the Droitwich Canal, through the staircase locks and past the newly built Droitwich Marina, and then back onto the Worcester & Birmingham Canal.
We decided we would go left at the junction near Hanbury Wharf and head up to Stoke Prior. The day was extremely hot, and so warranted a stop at the Bowling Green pub for a cold drink. We turned around at Black Prince Boat yard and then cruised some way back down and moored for the night near the Boat & Railway pub.
Day 4 – Worcester Marina
On our last day, we had to get back to Worcester Marina - which was around a five and a half hours cruise, giving us plenty of time. We set off at around 10am and made our way down towards Hanbury. The weather was just as gorgeous as it had been the previous few days with hot sunshine all day.
After a short time of meandering along the canal, we ended up at the stunningly beautiful rural village of Tibberton. By this point we were in definite need of a break, so we decided it would be a great idea to visit Speed the Plough, just off the canal side. Known for their amazing pies, coining the name the ‘Tibberton Pie Emporium’.
We headed down the remaining 11 locks back to Worcester Marina, which is only a relaxed 4 hours cruise away. When we got back to the Marina, we felt both an amazing sense of achievement and an overwhelming feeling of sadness that it was all over.
The Droitwich Ring is a fabulous route with plenty of amazing pubs and great places to stop off at and visit. It’s the perfect short break to get away from it all with friends or family.
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Marina: Worcester, Boat: Lark | Blog written by Sean, Worcester. |
