PRIMA June 2003

Heart of England
stay on a narrowboat by Jane Lovatt
Photo: Britain on View, Chris Clunn

TRAVEL TIPS
n When planning your route, take into account the number of locks, so you can work out how far you'll get in a day.

 n Even in summer it can be cold on the water in the early morning and evening, so take warm clothing. And, as its a 'what ever the weather holiday', take waterproofs just in case.

n Trainers are ideal for hopping on and off the boat and its its a good idea to take a torch, especially if you go ashore at night. And don't forget to take your binoculars if you are interested in wildlife.

THE FACTS
Black Prince Holidays offers a four-berth narrowboat for seven days for £785, from early May. For more information, call 01527 575115 or visit www.black-prince.corn.

This is a peaceful way to enjoy the countryside, even if it's your first time on a narrowboat. No experience is needed, and you'll be shown how to handle the boat and negotiate the locks before you set off.

Start your journey at Stoke Prior, in Worcestershire. Routes take in the rivers Severn and Avon, as well as a few canals. The Stourport Ring, the most popular journey, goes through the tranquil Staffordshire and  Worcestershire landscapes and leads to the Severn at Stourport.

The maximum speed is 4mph, and you're slowed down by the locks, so it's a very leisurely trip.

A map shows the locks and pubs, and you can  moor almost anywhere along the towpath if you  choose to explore.The journey takes you through a mix  of town and country scenery and should take about a week—time enough to enjoy the view and feel the cares of everyday life slip away.

You need to be reasonably fit to operate the locks, but you'll find other canal users friendly and willing to  help. The boats are well-equipped, with central heating, full-size fridge and  cooker, shower, flushing toilet,  comfortable single or double bunks, TV,  hairdryer and even a cigar-lighter plug point to  recharge your mobile phone.