Llangollen, Light Fantastic

[@willduckworth4789]

Thank you another great video with grown up commentary.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

thanks again Will.

[@lionelmarytravels6003]

That's how a canal video should be. Normal pace and gentle background music. Brilliant.

[@ianwebb1902]

As a Welshman, living in Japan for almost 20 years, and having been on the Llangollen for 2 weeks in the late 70s...... Yours, young fella, was by far the best pronunciation! Even my Japanese better half was impressed! We enjoy your videos,,,,please keep em coming! Thank you.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Ah well I must admit I lived in Wales until I was ten and had to learn Welsh at school. Please don't ask me to pronounce Pontcysyllte!

[@margaretwilliamson9659]

I'd wondered about Llangollen pronunciation as so many pronounce the first Ll unlike the next ll. Now I've heard the logical linguistically correct pronunciation! Hurray

[@tomthumb3085]

So many memories. My ex wife and I owned a small boat which was berthed on the Llangollen canal at Chirk. We enjoyed so many happy trips up and down the whole of this canal and the Shropshire union canal. To anyone thinking about boating on the canal networks, you could do a great deal worse than navigate the Llangollen canal. I thoroughly recommend it.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Me too, it has such a diverse landscape

[@pilpelet100]

Thanks for this. What wonderful photography. BTW - long ago I was told by an elderly Welshman that it doesn't rain in Wales! He said, "It's not rain. It's the mountain mist you know!"

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Ah the Welsh are so lyrical. Looks like it's p..p...precipitating to me!

[@morrislouiseeagle7161]

Just lovley thank you for taking us along with you please stay safe and well sending regards 👏❤️😁xxx

[@franktuckwell196]

I have only joined you today, as you were highly recommended, but have immediately subscribed for all vids. The beautiful visitor was great and the storm was amazing. Take care and easy cruising.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Welcome aboard Frank! I'm chuffed to have been recommended, and I hope you enjoy some of my other adventures and experiences.

[@sylviapage8572]

Your photography just gets better every episode. The lightening and the damsel fly was was fabulous. I really love your videos. Thanks as always for sharing your experience.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

As always, thanks Sylvia.

[@paisleyjane9606]

Thanks for the glamour shot of the damselfly.

[@glennsunman2317]

Yes wonderful and the damsel fly was good photography but the question that begs to be asked is "what about the mystery blond who opens all the locks , liftbridges etc ? Who is she ? Is the Llangollen the canal of love ? This is exciting!

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

The Llangollen is exciting for all sorts of reasons, not least the lock and lift-bridge fairy!

[@cackieart]

That Dragonfly Nature at its most stunning , Does look a fantastic canal to travel. Talking nature your Hair is still on the wild side, not that I'm jealous lol

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Cheers Mick. I'm hoping some waterfowl will take up residence in my Barnet sometime soon!

[@cazw179]

Expected the canal to be much busier now everyone is free to move. Cracking storm footage! ☁☔😁 (you remind me of Noel Edmonds)

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Hi Can, not everyone is free to move yet. I'm not sure people who have boats in marinas are allowed to stay on board overnight until the 6th July. Also none of the holiday boat companies are operating yet so there are huge fleets of holiday boats tied up on the Llangollen. Should I change the name of the channel to Boat Party I wonder...?

[@kevgray.]

Two years later..... They have since replaced that piece of wood with another one🙈

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Ha! And no one's nicked it for firewood? Well Kev you know what they say, if it ain't broke don't fix it ;)

[@kevgray.]

@@talesfromtheswansneck 👍

[@patriciahodgson4188]

Hi Andrew, I’m sure that canal was worth the wait. It looked special and enhanced by your photography. The storm was spectacular. Just between you and me I think you have a stalker that hangs around locks! You take care. Hutchinson & side-kick.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Hello again Admiral Hutch. Yep it's one of the best and the best is yet to come. I shall probably spend the next two months here, plenty to explore. Stalker? Blimey I hadn't noticed. This canal is known for it's kindly lock-fairies you know!

[@patriciahodgson4188]

Tales From The Swan's Neck Yes Andrew I’ve heard of those lock fairies! The Morgens are Welsh lady spirits that lure unsuspecting narrowboat men into their web! Are you planning to meet up with your boys in the not to distant future? You and your water sprite take care. Landlocked lubber and crows nest companion.

[@ms.butterworth7160]

Very nice, loved the photography. I find your choice of music very complementary. I also liked the stills of the damsel fly...great! Thanks so much for the time it takes you to put this together. - Nancy

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thank you Nancy, this one took more time than most because I wasn't too happy with it, but I think I got there in the end. Thanks for watching.

[@paulhayward444]

Back in Welsh Wales and no ladies in pointy hats? ☺ Lovely photography as always.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Well hellloooo. Not in Wales yet - although I've passed in and out a couple of times. Despite the name only the last 8 miles are in Wales, and a couple of small sections which add up to about a mile and a half. Looking forward to the rest of the trip.

[@wennawoods5189]

Wonderful Andrew, this canal remains one of my favourites and it's great to see you on the move again and so enjoying the beauty of the Llangollen. Watching you tie up with the 'nappy pins' as I call them reminds me of the frequent perils of sole boaters... when another goes by and rips the pins out. Last year on the GU a wide beam went past, quite slowly I must say, but completely ripped the stakes I'd driven in so carefully to hold my boat!!! I only just managed to hold it from bring dragged into the canal 😃😲 Wonderful photography as usual💤💤💤💤thank you

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thank you Wenna. I like the nappy pins association, I may have to nick that for a future vlog!

[@davidclinch1358]

Hi Andrew. For me it's not just your superb photography, or the very relaxing music, but the sound level that you have set the music at - just right. Can't stand vlogs where you have to keep turning the sound up and down between speech and music. Well done, very enjoyable !

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks David. I must admit it took me a while to get the levels balanced - there were a lot of complaints at first - but you're the first person to note that I have it about right, so many thanks, I appreciate that.

[@yeoldfart8762]

Wonderful way to start the morning... beautiful video. Really liked the grass through the window.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

I'm so pleased you mentioned that. I wasn't sure how many people would get it, but I just stood watching. Even better in the moment.

[@yeoldfart8762]

@@talesfromtheswansneck I love things like that. You do a vary good job of capturing moments. I watch a bunch of Narrowboat folks. There’s interesting folks out there. Your’s be the one I look forward to though!

[@tims7793]

Loved the still shots and storm footage from the mooring. Takes me back to your Tixall Wide vlog, which was outstanding

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks so much Tim. It's inspiring to find out what people like about my vlogs, so this is something I'll be trying to include more of.

[@tribsat100]

Another gem Andrew . Nice seeing you where you enjoy yourself .....at the tiller. Very special photography skills you have.[i sounded like Yoda there ! Stay safe matey and keep em coming Regards Stuart from the frozen North👍

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

And may the force be with you Stuart

[@deebiddle2705]

Hoorah. Your back. Been a long wait since your last vlog. Wow your hair looks great. Really enjoyable viewing again. Thank you Andrew keep well take care of yourself. Dee

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Dee. Sorry it took a while, but I wasn't happy with what I'd done so had to re-edit the whole thing. Then it was a problem finding somewhere with a good enough signal to upload. Hopefully you won't have to wait too long for the rest of the canal. Oh and as for my hair - thank you. I can't say I'm looking forward to the hairdressers reopening!

[@bryanmitchell1059]

Another beautiful vlog, Andrew. Your photography is excellent. We have traveled the Llangollen four times -on a hire boat from Cheshire Cat Narrow boats. We love it! Thank you for sharing your journey. Bryan & Donna, Quebec, Canada.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Well I'm not surprised you've been four times, it looks pretty good to me so far.

[@ralphwood9865]

You certainly have a great eye for natural beauty,thank you

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Cheers Ralph.

[@tonycarter3756]

Did this canal in 1979. Still as beautiful as ever.looking forward to the next video.

[@kathleenlench4087]

Very peaceful

[@robertastanger9983]

Oh my, what a beautiful, tranquil ride. Love the history along the way and the storm, just gorgeous. I am going to watch it again. From California.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thank you Roberta, I'm pleased the tranquility of the canal comes across on video. When it does I feel I've done my job. Thanks.

[@margaretwilliamson9659]

What a beautiful episode. Videos of this canal have become some of my favorites. What gorgeous countryside

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

I have to say Margaret the scenery keeps getting better!

[@christaylor8795]

Another great video Andrew and the storm sequences were really superb, keep safe and all the best to you!

[@jiloute22]

Nice to see you again, great views, take care, stay safe

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thank you Jean-Louis

[@jackbeyer4356]

This vlog was you at your best. Great mix of nature, history, and general repartee. Your close up shot of the dragon fly wing was fantastic. Thanks for bringing back my memories of the Llangollen. My wife and I did that canal on our honeymoon in 1976. Though we've cruised close to 20 different canals since then, it remains our favorite.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Jack. Great place to honeymoon. I'm looking forward to seeing the rest of it and spending some time exploring it and it's various arms.

[@kaysridgedell3404]

Quite an enjoyable journey with you & your beautiful visitor. Fantastic storm. Thanks.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Kay

[@sumiles7881]

Wonderful and uplifting as always Andrew ,thank you xx

[@jamesmattimore4004]

Good to see you back looking forward to more 👍

[@barbarastevens3053]

Great to be chugging along with you again. Best wishes and good luck.🐞

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Barbara

[@twilson_ne_uk]

"Light Fantastic" - Are you a fellow Terry Pratchett fan? - Great episode by the way (as they always are) both me and the wife love watching your vlogs. Hoping to be on the canals ourselves once I take my early retirement.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

I must admit I've never read any Terry Pratchett I'm afraid. I'm sure you must be counting down the days. It really is a wonderful lifestyle.

[@twilson_ne_uk]

@@talesfromtheswansneck Yes we are looking forward to it. Your excellent vlog helps. I think the biggest hurdle to overcome before we move to the canals is I've got to convince my wife that the Narrowboat needs to be called "Enterprise".

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

@@twilson_ne_uk beam me up Bardy!

[@greghilton7797]

That was lovely. I do miss your pink lightning over there is much gentler than the aggressive blue/white we have here in Queensland. Thanks Andrew. Cheers

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Greg. Well I didn't know that lightening was different colours. That's worth a bit of research.

[@brianrayment5019]

Andrew, very good vlog and the scenery is brilliant especally along Wenbury.👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

I am making slow but steady progress, and yes it keeps getting better along the way.

[@patrickmclead5534]

I was intrigued by the damsel fly. Beautiful shots of the scenery. Thank you. Are the canals ever closed , drained and cleaned out? Hi just curious.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Patrick. Good question. By and large the canals are kept open, occassionally dredged whilst still open. They are sometimes closed in places for remedial work. There are 'stop-planks' usually close to 'pinch-points' (bridges and locks) which can be used to dam the canal so that it can be drained for maintenance or if there has been a breach.

[@Kitfoxmk1]

Buitiful

[@peterpearce2011]

I like your vlog and your great commentary on the canals, very interesting.

[@chilesauce7248]

The grass heads of child hood memories, thank you for that moment; I was especially happy about the bonus Buttercup in that scene. Once again an inspirational video and a facet of the screenplay is born. I loved that work boat Phoebe with all the cut trunks aboard and the guy stood in her hull, CRT fire wood? Do they hire contractors for tree surgery and then sell the wood? He looked a happy dude anyway!

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

The guy in Phoebe is a carpenter/ joiner/ craftsman and makes and sells his woodwork as he travels. Yes he'll pick up wood along the way as many of us do. Sometimes the CRT employ contractors, sometimes they do it themselves. It surprises me that they don't sell it as this could provide a good revenue stream I would have thought. Often they leave the cut wood along the towpath or in work barges (such as Bala in episode 33 at 1:24).

[@Tony-nn3gl]

Wow what a great way of life, does not get better than that. Great video.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

You are so right Tony, it is a wonderful way of life

[@276tracey]

Lovely video....love the bits with no background music and even when you did use background music it was calm .... WHO is the lady?..... Loved the last frame of lift bridge ( think that's what you said it was called ?!). Looking forward to next vid

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thank you Tracey, and yes it is a lift bridge, and there will be more of that lift bridge and others in the next vid.

[@servicarrider]

We can see that you can barely contain your excitement. Oh, you English are a funny lot, but being Americans we love you unconditionally.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Errrm... not exactly sure what I'm containing, but thanks anyway!

[@servicarrider]

@@talesfromtheswansneck "I am quite excited about getting into this canal." It was a double entendre. As you were clearly, outwardly, unenthusiastic, I thought it was an adroit commentary, maybe not.

[@philipizzard2584]

A beautiful video I did this canal 3 years ago now and really enjoyed it loved the footage of the storms coming thanks again

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Philip. It's great what I've seen of it so far.

[@annie2950]

Great vlog so relaxing. Thanks Andrew hope your coping with the hot weather. Keep safe.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Annie. Having lived in the frozen north I find anything above 22 uncomfortable, so the 30 degrees we've had has been a bit much. That said, it's ok if the boat is moving.

[@robelliott8061]

Nice one,thanks,take care.

[@deltablues102]

It's true you'll come back more like a speedboat :)

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Wow! Watch out other canal users! Especially as the holiday boats will be out by then

[@yeoldfart8762]

I remember watching a KZbin of Narrow boat through Wales. I remember it being very lovely. I think it was Aslan.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

When I was considering this lifestyle I would watch Country House Gent so I guess I have a debt of gratitude there. I don't remember seeing the Llangollen episodes though. Perhaps I should go back and have a look.

[@yeoldfart8762]

@@talesfromtheswansneck I was watching his Amazon footage and not KZbin. That was how I found out about Narrow Boats. I’m fairly sure he was in Wales but it may have been someone else. I am an Old Fart you know.

[@martinlloyd7563]

Excellent cinematography as per usual

[@laurapavoni6507]

I had the honour to put the first like to your footage.. always the weather runs slow and calm🍒💙🏞️

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Martin, hopefully the rest of the canal will be a delight to my lenses too.

[@danensis]

Was the person working the locks a friend, a volunteer or a random stranger?

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Have you not come across the Llangollen lock and lift-bridge fairy on your travels...?

[@kathycoutanche2537]

If the lock and lift bridge fairies are anything like the traffic light fairies my family believes in, you need to pay a tithe to keep them sweet. I hope you have or they’ll be very upset with you.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

@@kathycoutanche2537 A new windlass...?

[@slowboatthroughbritain]

Great visuals and clear commentary. Hoping to be on the Llangollen next spring.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

I'm sure you'll not be disappointed, it's right up there in the best for me - not that I've done that many I suppose.

[@mwoo8158]

loved the lighting ... shooting stars next

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Oh come on...that's asking a bit much! But hey, if I see a meteor shower I'll try to film it!!!

[@kathycoutanche2537]

The Bootid meteor shower is happening now until July 2. Not always worth the time, but it can be fab.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

@@kathycoutanche2537 Oh great! There's nothing I like more than lying on my back on the towpath in the dead of night!

[@kathycoutanche2537]

Lie on your roof with a G&T. x

[@pooterist]

Terrific photography, as always. Loved the damsel fly close up. What lens did you use for this? Must be a macro lens on a DSL. But just gorgious! Welcome back to the world of motion. Best wishes from all (or at least most) of us, I'm sure.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Cheers Michael. Yes I used a dslr with an 18-55mm macro lens. And you have no idea how good it is to be back in motion.

[@Renovator26]

Welcome back. Great thunderstorm sequences. These images made me wonder about the danger of lightning strikes on a narrowboat - where do you hide? Onboard? Any feelings of nervousness? John, Ontario, Canada.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Hi John. When I experienced my first thunderstorm on the boat I was a little nervous, yes. However, i have been told that the boat acts like a faraday cage - I just hope that's right.

[@DaleBotterill]

Tales From The Swan's Neck : it’s certainly the advice when caught at sea in a GRP (Tupperware) boat to earth the mast by wrapping the middle of the anchor chain a few times around the foot of the mast and dropping the two ends into the water on either side of the boat. Supposed to leave you with a load of scorch marks and melted plastic rather than a bloomin’ great hole right through the boat where the mast used to be if the worst happens. Never got to try it out in anger though, fortunately!

[@nevcartledge]

That spot looked idyllic, great video.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Nev, the peace and tranquility was awesome. Are you managing to get out and about now?

[@nevcartledge]

Tales From The Swan's Neck not yet but hopefully very soon. Pretty much gone mad ha ha!

[@penelopeallsebrook6618]

Really enjoyed watching 😎 would love a boat maybe one day any future plans for Chesterfield and Newark notts 🌻

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Oh Penny, you must get a boat! And I would love to do The Chesterfield - it is on my list, definitely

[@penelopeallsebrook6618]

@@talesfromtheswansneck keep asking my husband would love it HAPPY Days 😊 only about 15 mins from Newark

[@shirleymcalister6719]

LOVE your videos - but it does make me miss the Nirvana (friend's narrowboat) and our trips..... Not very good at steering, myself but my friend said "Don't worry if you nudge another narrowboat - it's like "kissing" another bowling ball on the Crown Green. But beware the "Tupperware!" Hit one of those and they're going down! 🙄

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Thanks Shirley. Now I've never considered the consequences of hitting a 'tupperware' before. Your friend is right, they wouldn't last long. Might make an exciting vlog...!

[@johndashwood7671]

I know the replace the lock gates every so often, but what about the iron work on the paddles. They look very old. Could they still be from the original canal build? Good vlog by the way.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Lock gates usually last about 30 years, although more modern gates have a life expectancy of 50 years. I'm sure the ironwork will be inspected when gates are replaced, but much of the ironwork will still be original. This stuff was built to last.

[@grahambaker5235]

Just come across your channel. Enjoyed very much. Do you have a vlog on your boat?

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Hi Graham, welcome aboard. I'm afraid I don't do 'boat tours', as a matter of security and privacy, I hope you understand. I hope too that you enjoy some of my other adventures and experiences.

[@suefleckney3776]

Watching your storm made me think could this be dangerous on your boat, do you know?

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

I wondered that too Sue, but apparently it's rather like being in a car during a storm, safe because of the Faraday Effect. - I hope! But, like being in a house, it's advisable to unplug things like computers and sensitive electronics.

[@machiavellian7490]

Mellow

[@garrywaterfield8508]

Ŵ

[@kpnuts6746]

Hi Andrew love the videos but I am a bit concerned because all of us in Llangollen can’t travel 5miles outside our area and are asked only to go out for food or to see the doctors but but come here now. We are a very welcoming town but this isn’t helping us sorry.

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

Hi. Yes I'm aware of the travel restrictions into Wales which is why I'm taking my time. Recent rumours are suggesting the border at Chirk will open on the 13th. I can't wait - but I guess I'll have to.

[@johndunn8580]

Sorry, I think I’ve pressed the thumbs down by mistake 😢. I really enjoy your vlogs so please ignore it, I’ve also gone back in and given a thumbs up hoping this will overcome it

[@talesfromtheswansneck]

So it was you!!! No worries, pleased you enjoyed it John.