MUD, MUD, GLORIOUS MUD, Narrowboat Canal Life - Episode 80

We encounter some mud, Fran especially, and visit Beeston Castle.
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MUSIC:
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• Sunrise Drive - South ...
• Birds of Paradise
• Luminescence
• Benjamin Thompson - Lu...
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[@stevenparry2931]

Loved this one, my neck of the woods, I was born I Calveley and moved to Bunbury when I was 16-17 , lovely canals to walk along

[@FloatingOurBoat]

It is a lovely area

[@ainsliejones3764]

Love you two,you post are just so real.

[@watersrising8044]

You two are a delight. What a beautiful land you live in; I envy your canals and foot paths, muddy or otherwise. Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you, glad you enjoy the videos

[@downhilltwofour0082]

I have been retired for almost 24 years now and I have a hobby of driving the local Farm roads thorough the countryside. I often come upon old abandoned buildings either homes or barns or out-buildings and I try to imagine the people who built them. Where did they come from? why did the leave their old homes to come out here? How did they pick theri new location? How much of an effort was it to build their new home? How long were they there before they left and why did they leave and where are they now? That sort of imagining. Our lives are so temporary yet seem to need a "Permanent" place to stay. I loved your way of indicating where your boat was at 24:41 of this video. I take still photos and quite often, I get my finger in the shot too! Stay safe and healthy!!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

There are do many stories behind these old buildings and it is such s shame that they get lost with time. I once had s house with a little bit of it's history passed on to me by word of mouth so I write it down, added our story to it and put it in a box in the loft hopefully for the next person to add to.

[@downhilltwofour0082]

@@FloatingOurBoat Now that is a marvelous idea! My wife and I own and live in a house that is 115 years old. WE've been in it for 35 years now. Of course over the years we have painted and replaced a lot of the old stuff. Neither of us can even imagine living in a newly built home.

[@341shastajane]

Thank you for taking us along on your visits to cathedrals, castles and museums. Your country is rich in history (no pun intended) and the countryside is beautiful. It needs to be able to be freely shared with its citizens in a mutually responsible manner.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Quite agree with you.nat the moment so much is only available to those with money. So unfair

[@simonross8218]

After Bunbury locks you would have gone down the lock at Tilstone Fearnall. The house on the right below the lock with the stepped garden, 25 yrs ago was like a RHS show garden. Regardless of the time of year! It was planted beautifully, and manicured to an inch of its life! One of my favourite places to fish that stretch, and always seen kingfishers along there, as well as wild mink on occasions!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thanks Simon. We will be going back through Tilstone so will look out for this and the kingfishers.

[@sianwarwick633]

A castle that was used as a prison for the Welsh ! I don't know if I agree with that... beautiful walk in the countryside ! Thanks for showing us the views.

[@SteamPunk-xp2uv]

Your Texan Troublemaker here! There is such a thing as a prescriptive easement which, as I understand it, also exists in UK law. This is probably what the landowners are trying to " muddy" with plowing and running equipment over the paths. These easements develop through usage and, generally, have no documentation. There is a time component, but it's pretty short around here: 20 years. Just because the path isn't evident, now, doesn't mean you don't have a right to walk on it. Several generations of aerial photography is helpful in finding the paths over time. Good luck! The Scots had to start somewhere and look what they have, now!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you for your comment. It seems we have ruffled a few feathers with this video. Many of these paths have been there long before the farms and we feel that just because farming practices have changed, that should affect our rights to enjoy our beautiful countryside on foot. I think this topic all needs looking into a little. Fran x

[@SteamPunk-xp2uv]

@@FloatingOurBoat Don't let the big agribusiness guys bully you. You have allies in walking clubs, other narrowboaters. English folks love to walk. So much so that derelict train tunnels are being resurrected for more places to walk and explore.

[@sunnybeach2124]

Thank you for fabulous music, stunning sceneries, and heartfelt humor.....and more singing please, Frances.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you so much, but I'm not sure everyone would agree about the singing.

[@theannecrossett7761]

Thank for walking in the mud so we could experience the views from the castle...beautiful :)

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Our pleasure x

[@andyrbush]

You really are showing England at is absolute best in this vlog.

[@diannedutton6127]

🇺🇸 i am from Georgia, i've been to England twice i love it, so i really enjoy watching your vlogs.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Glad you like them!

[@HelenandDave]

Hi Fran & Rich, found your channel during the Christmas break. We were home & bed bound with pneumonia and ended up binge watching your story from episode 1 and now we’re up to date. Hats off to you both for taking the plunge (not in the canal) but into a lifestyle change. An inspiration to us over 50’s who have realised that time is running out and life is too short. Lovely attitude and wonderful couple. Wishing you both all of the best with your future adventures. We’ve subbed because we can’t wait to see more! Cheers Helen & Dave 🍷🍺

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Helen and Dave. Welcome to our channel and thank you for subscribing. You deserve medals for getting through all our videos that quickly. Well-done. I think there are a lot of people of our generation who realise they have spent their lives doing for others and now it's time for us instead of working towards an ever increasing retirement date. You look as if you are enjoying life too. Good luck and we look forward to hearing from you again Fran x

[@traceyballard1678]

Beautiful views

[@johnashby2653]

I was over from Canada visiting my Mum who lives in Tarporley when you were up Beeston Castle... I knew nothing of your vlogs at that time.... did you go in the caves at the castle...?? Quite extensive.... great views from the top... we used to bike there as teenagers (50 years ago), climb over the wall and re-enact the English keeping the Welsh hordes out of Cheshire!!! Thanks for the lovely reminder of my youth!!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi John. When we went to Beeston Castle they caves were closed and we couldn't go in do we didn't bother to go round to look at them. It is a wonderful place though and as you say the views are fantastic. There were a few really old trees in the field approaching the castle and u couldn't help standing by then thinking of all the history that had happened around them. I get you loved it as ternagers.

[@millicentyfortyfive]

Loving the funky music, I'm bopping about on my sofa 😎

[@Glad2bBack]

Love your little walks and history tours, the castle looked amazing. And it's cool that the mud doesn't stop you from venturing out.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you. It takes more than a bit if mud to put us off.

[@silashouse1054]

Hi Guys, I missed this one (80) but spotted it in (81) I not sure why this happens, but I will say your Blog's keep me interested great presentation. John NZ ... Kaiora.

[@Acapulc941]

I cannot express the joy you bring into my heart with your vlogs. Part of it is just feeling the warmth and gentleness of spirit which you each exude. And then I learn so much by the places you share, like this castle. I even find great joy in how exuberant Archie and Jess are. How old are they? Thank you so much. Leigh, Texas

[@ianlindsay1454]

Hello Fran and Rich, We've been watching your channel from the start, when we subscribed. We've always enjoyed watching your channel but never made a comment until now, the reason being that the videos are getting better and better. Your content is very interesting and relaxing, the video work superb. Keep up the good work, we are not boaters but love the lifestyle on the canals. Ian and Angie.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Ian and Angie. Thank you so much for your comment and for watching our videos. Please always feel free to let us know what you think. We really do love to hear from people.

[@ulisesriver4656]

i dont mean to be so offtopic but does anybody know a trick to log back into an Instagram account? I stupidly lost the account password. I love any tricks you can give me.

[@colsoncory1021]

@Ulises River Instablaster ;)

[@ulisesriver4656]

@Colson Cory I really appreciate your reply. I got to the site through google and Im in the hacking process now. Seems to take a while so I will reply here later with my results.

[@ulisesriver4656]

@Colson Cory It did the trick and I now got access to my account again. I am so happy! Thank you so much, you really help me out!

[@declanpmclaughlin2286]

Hi, you mentioned about your frustration in not being able to walk across a farmers land, even though it looks like grassy fields with nothin much happening. It is their land. Imagine if there were two canal boats moored together across a canal, someone walked across both boats to reach the other side. How would you feel that that person walked over your boat to reach the other side. I own many hectares in other countries, and I certainly wouldnt want anyone walking over my land. Just an observation and I hope you take my comments in good faith. Love following your adventures.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

I have just finished reading a book about who owns our land. Most of the land has just been passed down through the years and the owners have done nothing to warrant owning it. It was taken away from the people of this nation many years ago and handed out to the wealthy who still own most of it. I know many farmers lease the land and the crops and livestock need protecting, but I believe it is our country and we should be allowed to enjoy it, within reason of course. I would never expect to walk through someone's house as I would not have them walk across our boat, but that is a little different from woodland and meadow. Thank you for sharing your point of view, and I'm glad you like our adventures. Fran

[@janeyfitzgerald8031]

I lived on a farm once - sadly not everyone is as nice and considerate as you are. We constantly had to clear dropped rubbish and watch people trample all over the fields and not keep to the path. We kept cows and people walked dogs and didn’t clear up after them and we had to have 4 cows put down because of it. It’s sad we can’t walk freely but it’s because of the people who aren’t considerate that a blanket rule exists I guess.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We understand that, but we should still have some access right as the land originally belonged to the people and we all took care of it. There should be respect from both sides. Sadly that is not always the case

[@Chris-be1fo]

I enjoy relaxing with your videos. Love the view of the grass. We don’t see grass that green here in Australia. Thanks for sharing.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Chris

[@deborahleasor8463]

Thanks for the tour it’s the only way I’d every see the inside of it!

[@rogerbond7811]

Like the gongoozling horse at 10 mins

[@mikegershon8528]

What glorious views from that castle. And I think that was the first horse gongoozler I have ever seen!

[@davehanson6915]

Hello to you Guys. In your rant about walking on the farm properties, here in Florida if you go wandering across anybody’s property you will be arrested for trespassing probably or your life threatened. Myself as a property owner I do not allow anybody across the property. I do have horses If I have somebody gets hurt whether it was my fault or not they would turn around and sue me. And that’s pretty much the way it is on everybody’s property. Even if you have somebody come over and sign a liability release. Then you have to deal with the lawyers and courts at the lawsuit. Unfortunately I have been through that so I understand your concerns about not being able to do what you’re supposed to be allowed to do but here in the states you don’t get off the sidewalk. I love all your videos I’ve been watching them all and I’m up to this one now #80 I really love and I am jealous of all the scenery you get to go through and the history behind all of that I wish I could come over and go cruising with you. Anyway it’s a long comment but keep up the good work.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

I guess we are really very lucky here. We have a huge network of permissible paths and tracks many of which are ancient. Our history is obviously very different to yours and all our land was open access and the commoners were free to use it until the Norman invasion in 1066 when it was taken from the people and given to nobility. That is why we are now very protective of our paths and campaign for more access.

[@borderreiver90]

Suggest you get some walking poles...a great help in mud and snow.....

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We do have some, but often forget them!

[@stevelloyd3140]

Another fantastic vlog both, what a beautiful country we live in 👌🏻

[@myhillslife27]

Aah another tree hugger 🤗😄🌳🌲🌳🌲 lovely video.. thankyou for sharing. Do you not have wellies? Maybe get Horse paddock boots like I wear, they're water proof with great treads on the souls, can walk thru anything! Last 2 have looked like our paddocks at the moment 🌧

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We do think about getting wellies, but they are another thing to find room for and our boots always clean up well

[@myhillslife27]

@@FloatingOurBoat Yes! Understand as I'm going to go Tiny, but I feel if you use thru most of winter they may be worth it & save your good walking shoes. I do recommend paddock boots thou they have good soles and grip for locks etc 😉 I paid a bit for mine but use everyday of winter almost plus autumn and cool days.. they are so sturdy + good wearing they last years.. I've repaired once.

[@rodnelson2651]

Nice to see you back on KZbin. You are going to LOVE Chester!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We are looking forward to it.

[@GaryCaptainPhillips]

What a great guy Dave is, he's helped us through there too x

[@Boating_David]

Always a pleasure Gary 😊

[@ALifeFullofMeaning]

So.Much.Mud! Those countryside views from the castle were magnificent.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We are so tired if the mud now, but the views made it all worth it. Thanks for watching.

[@scottfw7169]

8:43 reminds me that Fran has always struck me as a well grounded person.

[@JISJ1964]

You were on the canal with grey and white beams on the lockgates,

[@BarneyLeith]

Well ranted, Rich, about access to the land! And sorry to see Fran on her back in the mud!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Barney. It takes more than a little mud to keep me down. It seems we have upset a few people by airing our views about the footpaths, but if nobody highlights the problem it will only get worse and we could lose our access altogether. These boots will keep on walking! Fran x

[@michaelcoker3197]

Awful day, then you guys made it all better. You two are just the best.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Mike

[@patrickstarnes2355]

Very entertaining and informative! Well done guys, best narrow boat vlog I've seen, keep it up!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you so much Patrick

[@stephenpotter9083]

What a beautiful place. I’ve been past Beeston Castle on the Shroppie a few times, but never visited. Next time!!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Make directly stop next time it is well worth it.

[@mal_752]

Another fabulous vlog. Archie and little Jess looked so muddy!. Lovely views. Thank you. 🐕🐕👍👍👍👍

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Malcolm. I have given them a haircut to try to keep them a little cleaner, but they have so much fun and the mud soon washes off so it's all worth it. Can't wait for drier weather though

[@mal_752]

@@FloatingOurBoat. Fabulous. I love the way that they run together, like they were attached!!!!. Poor Fran falling over. Nice sunny vlog..

[@hughcarson6837]

Thank you for another great vlog

[@ThisNarrowboatAdventure]

Beautiful views in jelous

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thanks for watching Jasmin - hope you are well xx

[@fchichois2250]

Groovy music, that’s real cool. Super dooper Vlog again, wish we were there too... Thanks for sharing

[@jmccracken491]

I agree with you people about the walking across fields causes no damage. Love the horse on the bridge pretty.

[@sylviapage8572]

That mud reminded me of our last NB holiday! We spent most of the week washing our dogs feet 😁. The views from the castle were amazing and I laughed out loud when Fran was lying in the mud, that would be me! That’s just what I love about your channel, you don’t take yourselves and life too seriously,although you both clearly care deeply and you have a laugh. On a more serious note, I hope your house sale is back on track now that Christmas is out of the way. Thanks as always for sharing your adventure.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Sylvia. We do usually manage to see the funny side if things. I am a clumsy of though, it would never have happened to Rich. Thanks for asking about the house. It looks like we have another buyer so we're keeping everything crossed!!

[@Mark-ct5dh]

All that mud..yikes! At least Fran had a great attitude about falling in the mud! Did you help her up Rich? I noticed that your stove pipe is missing its hat! I always enjoy your Vlogs and wait with great anticipation for a new one! I appreciate all your hard work putting the Videos together! Thanks Rich and Fran!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Mark. Rich Was The perfect gentleman and did help me up.... After filming of course! You're right we are missing a chimney cowl. I dropped it in the canal 🙄

[@carolehayden8566]

Aah. Flanders and Swann. "So follow me follow Down to the hollow And there we will wallow In glorious mud.

[@lisapercywolf3392]

I truly believe that England's richer, deeper, longer history is why Americans are so enamored of Her. We have history, to be sure, but England's is so much more enchanting. What a wondrous place, that castle, to feel the stones touched by man so long ago. LOL, like Fran, I run the risk of waxing lyrical here. We'll lighten things up, then, by my telling you that I actually laughed out loud to see your equine gongoozler! Happy cruising!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Lisa. We are lucky with our rich history and it is such a pleasure to share it with you.

[@oliviabrunetti7773]

Hi Fran & Rich, I'm catching up on your back catalog of vlogs having just recently discovered your channel.(Thank the Foxes!) Really enjoying the vlogs and you both . . . my sister and I are weavers too, so our interest was really piqued learning you weave on a narrow boat! (Where does she keep everything!!?) Also love that you're eco warriors, we all need to be! Thank you!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Olivia. Glad you found our channel. It is a constant struggle resisting buying more weaving yarns as I'm sure you can imagine

[@sandywilkinson8165]

We live walking distance from the Shropshire union canal in a cottage in the middle of a field adjacent to a bluebell wood. We have a public footpath running through our land and maintain it for walkers'. Our local parish council have a footpath walker who checks on the state of the paths. I agree with Rich, not everyone is so accomodating. Enjoy your walks so good for the soul.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Sandy. It is thanks to people like you and your parish council that many footpaths are a pleasure to walk. If only everyone was the same. X

[@acerone10]

Looking forward to your visit with the "bald explorer". (Richard Vobes)

[@bobhope5773]

The way a starling flock flies, is called a "murmuration".

[@jamesjohnston3643]

Just from the title I have a hunch you've heard of Flanders and Swann :) Well done.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Of course !!

[@johnwilliambeeching6824]

What fantastic scenery,great vlog truly 5*A+ 👌👍

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you so much John x

[@tonyp011]

I paused the video and found the boat which is just below the field that looks like its been ploughed which is actually the fields on the other side of the canal opposite your boat, like a white strip in the break of the hedging, et's see how far out I am

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Spot on.

[@carolehayden8566]

You two are delightful a couple 💑

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you

[@janecox4173]

You got it all just right. The fun, informative information and the music is brill. I also cant wait to see you meet he 'bald explorer'. ENJOY

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Jane. Two bald explorers in one go eh? Fran x

[@TheHodsocks]

If you invested in software called memory map it’s quite expensive but you get the os maps of the whole uk all paths are marked on it also downloads to a handheld gps Sorry I’ve only just got to this blog trying to watch in order long may you continue The hodsocks

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you. Rich did have an OS app, but that still relies on a connection when you are out and about. We have still like paper maps.

[@TheGeoffpike]

Great vid our kid, love you all . Xx

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Loves ya back xx

[@FoxesAfloat]

Top vlog again 👍 Love and miss you both ❤️❤️

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you guys. Missing you too.... And our favourite boat dog xxx

[@ruperthankin6947]

I've been watching your vlogs for a while now. They are very good and excellent content.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thanks Rupert 👍

[@sianwarwick633]

Pleased to hear your rant. There are some things about UK, or maybe English, property ownership I will never understand. The right of way (to walk) and the right to gather firewood and / or forage wild food are the main things. Very interesting history, too. Seize the cake !

[@FloatingOurBoat]

It is a long and complicated history, but the land was taken from the commoners many years ago and portioned out to the wealthy. Fortunately we at least have the right to walk on the public footpaths which still cover the country. That is if the land owner keeps them clear!!

[@camplinpb]

Great vlog as always, some awesome views from the castle, dogs looked like they loved the area , take care , ATB Paul x

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thanks Paul. The dogs love anywhere they can run around, the muddier the better.

[@CheckFred]

Reminds me of a reoccurring Dream I keep having; Where I'm walking alongside the Thames here, and the to-path starts to flood infront of me 'and' behind, with it getting deeper and deeper until I wake up .... AARRGGHH!!! ;-)

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Oh no, I shouldn't have read that just before bed! Now my head is going round with thoughts of bad dreams.

[@gerrygarcia653]

Greeting from San Antonio Texas. Watching for about 2 weeks and parsing episodes so they can last a bit. Poor Fran...but mud is soft. Any info on nearby ancient/roman history would be wonderful when possible. Thank you both for all your efforts. BTW, those blackberries look rather tasty on one of your past episodes.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Gerry. Thank you for joining us. Those blackberries were the best I have ever had. Keep watching for the next episode about Chester. I think there will be a lot of Roman history there x

[@fredwiltshire9845]

Hi Fran & Rich, This is my first comment to you since subscribing and it is a complaint i'm afraid. Every morning I used to put the news on tv while making my first cup of tea in the morning , but since i started playing catch up with your previous vids I now hardly ever see the news. While watching some of your videos you play a blues guitar instrumental track , i tried to find it on sound hound to no avail , any clues would be good. Keep doing what you are doing I am loving watching your experiences. PS especially the K&A clips my local canal.

[@joann5157]

I think you both need some Wellies. That mud looked treacherous.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Our boat is too crowded already to store wellies, the walking boots are great, so warm and comfortable and really clean up easily.

[@gilbertfranklin1537]

I really enjoy watching the dogs run side by side, as though they were having a race. I think it adds to their joy by having a partner. Can't quite imagine either of you two keeping up with one of the dogs for that spirited competition, eh? 🤣

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Gilbert. We're not even going to try keeping up with the dogs! Watching them is enough to wear us out.

[@andycapp2539]

I can see why the vobes likes your videos, I also enjoyed that thanks

[@dabooser1048]

Interesting perspective on private land ownership. I can understand both sides of the coin. However my thought is continuously brought back to the property owners perspective (presumably) that it's their property to do with as they please and it is not for another to decide how it should be used. Just my thoughts. Not trying to cause an argument. Love your videos. Such a great life to live.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

It is a contraversial topic with lots to consider, but it would be easier if they could at least look after the public footpaths which cross their land. We saw one on a friends video this week where there was a fotpath sign, then a style, then an electric fence!

[@josephcarroll8833]

Fran, have you thought about putting together a recipe book with all of these interesting dishes you make. Your cousins over here it the US would like a sample.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you for your confidence in me. We will add a recipe page to the website soon.

[@jamesmcgilvray6363]

Brilliant as usually 👌 keep these videos coming

[@dadt8009]

The land in England (also Scotland) is not just owned by big businesses for commercial use, don't forget the aristrocrat families who own large swaths of uncultivated fields, forest areas and islands. Also, many viillages and parts of some towns and cities are legally within private lands. When you walk down a street, having a stroll in a park, at a train station... you think you are in a public space owned by the country and belonging to all, but more likely than not you are in a privately owned space.

[@albertrowe3351]

Mud glorious mud indeed, squelch, squelch, I can't believe they charged £8 to go into Beeston, not been there for years except to start a walk I used to do to the copper mine via Peckforton (not a real castle) and occupies the other high spot nearby, you are not seeing the area at its best for sure, Chester is good, there is a museum just off the roundabout near the castle (law courts) full of Roman stuff, and you will see the amphitheatre if you walk right round the walls it.s near Pepper row, the old shops and the walls are all interesting, thanks for the video, face muscles can relax now!.x

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Albert. I think Beeston was worth the eight pound. We thoroughly enjoyed it. We are really looking forward to Chester and will definitely be exploring the Roman parts of the town. Thanks for watching. Fran x

[@SecretSquirrelFun]

Mud mud glorious mud... ...nothing quite like it for cooling the blood. So follow me follow Down to the hollow And there let us wallow, in glorious MUD 🙂🐿🌈❤️

[@FloatingOurBoat]

😂

[@bobhope5773]

Freedom to roam. First of all to qualify the land must be "uncultivated mountain, moor, heath, down and common land", which has been officially mapped. This land is shown in "Yellow" on Ordnance Survey Explorer maps. If you stray off this into domestic spaces, farmland or gardens you are trespassing, unless you are on a "Public Right of Way/Footpath". Land managers also have the right to close off areas of land for 28 days.

[@phillipneale5256]

Great vlog countryside was beautiful the views from the castle were amazing the dogs looked like they were having a great time any news about the house it must be a worry for you I have just sold my house was very lucky hadn't even marketed it was in the process of a builder bought it he wants to have an extension and my garden is huge then we retire in June and start out boat journey. Regards Lorraine +Phil Xx

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi both. This week we have a new buyer 😲 so fingers crossed it goes well. Good news about your sale exciting times eh?

[@philipdoyle-allen6575]

Hi guys our boat is now being filmed please go to knights narrow boat on KZbin cheers

[@FloatingOurBoat]

That's great footage for you to keep. When to you get the keys?

[@philipdoyle-allen6575]

2nd week in March hopefully , fingers crossed 🤞

[@TaniTaniwha]

Hi Fran and Rich, listening to Rich talk about low battery levels and it being windy, do any narrow boaters deploy windmills to help charge their batteries,? Solar is prevalent so just a thought. Enjoying your vlogs so thanks so much. Cheers, Mike

[@TaniTaniwha]

Actually, answering my own question after about one minute's research. There's heaps of options. I was going to post a link but maybe that's not kosha but they're easy to find

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Yes, we have seen boats with wind turbines, usually on fixed moorings. I have heard that they are quite noisy but you are welcome to share a link.

[@craigsteele8912]

Bloody good. You chaps are starting to get this vloging thing sorted. Always look forward to the next installment. Cheers. PS its 30 degrees Celsius at the moment down here in NZ.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thanks Craig. 30 degrees C sounds great to us right now. We have woken up to frozen ropes again this morning and are snuggled by the fire.

[@jiloute22]

I am not surprised by the state of the agricultural roads and the walking paths, most of the agricultural tractors are oversized, here most of the paths have disappeared, they have been plowed, there is an association which wants to rehabilitate them, but it's difficult for them

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We completely agree with you. Later on this walk we passed massive 'rollers' which we assume are used to flatten the ground but of course will just compact the soil and affect the drainage. The fields are also completely covered with massive tractor tyre tracks. The ground has no chance of draining freely when it is being abused like this.

[@davidbutler4363]

Well said both of you 😁👍👏👏👏

[@averynarrowjourney2414]

Awww Fran I feel for you - it’s normally me falling over 😂😂 and Rich - we need more singing ♥️😘😊

[@averynarrowjourney2414]

I commented halfway through the vlog - your singing is lovely too Fran ♥️ and love the footage of your walk and the castle - fab xxx

[@FloatingOurBoat]

You got in just in time then, I was just about to get on my high horse (not the one on the bridge) and ask what was wrong with my singing 🤣

[@EscapeToTheCut]

Another Camino from David, he needs to get some videos on you tube 🤗

[@Boating_David]

I don't need to I just crash everyone else's 😂😂😂

[@andyrbush]

Part of the reason they had right to roam in Scotland was because there were so few people compared to England so they were not such a problem for farms.But the routes in England had to be defined otherwise people would be a problem. Also in England if you have and accident on land that is not a defined as public, you can sue the landowner. But with public routes across private land, the landowner is imune from liability. Similarly public routes are the responsibility of the local authorities not the land owner to maintain. Footpaths can be ploughed up but the farmer is supposed to flatten and redefine the route afterwards. The land access routes are steadily being closed. Pity that they are not recognized as a national treasure much older than canals but not protected like canals. Canal were nearly lost as you know.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Andy. I believe there is a drive for people to register or notify the authorities of old paths which may be forgotten. I'm not sure who is behind it though.

[@andyrbush]

@@FloatingOurBoat I used to be involved with the UK rights of ways especially those for vehicles, until I emigrated in 99. The problem in part is the county councils being overly influenced by landowners and pressure groups, making it very one sided against the users.

[@martinkavanagh196]

F&R - I'm at risk of being a "fan-boy' at my age. - Your vlog just gets better'n'better - including the "message". Thank you even for the mud - down here in S.I. NZ the grass has all browned-off & stopped growing. Fire & water restrictions!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Martin. We are very pleased and honoured to have you as a fan boy. Thank you so much. I hope younger some respite from your extreme weather soon. After predictions that we were due to have the worst winter for 56 years, they are now saying we are due for an early spring!

[@welldeckdiaries5610]

Poor old Fran laying in the mud, didnt laugh, honestly😜 Its doing my head in at the moment having to clean the dogs feet every time they go out, the price we pay for our canine companions

[@anthonymorgan7479]

"laying"????

[@welldeckdiaries5610]

Anthony Morgan 8mins 45 secs

[@FloatingOurBoat]

So glad you laughed, it's the only way to deal with these things. Roll on spring eh? I think we're going to get a little USB charged hand held shower to clean the dogs with.🤔

[@nesleinf]

God I was scared - I thought you were going to sing :-D

[@sarkybugger5009]

I was about to click unsubscribe. ;o)

[@davidcadden6097]

Great camera work, very entertaining.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you David

[@m.d.grimes1622]

Very good video, thanks. :)

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you

[@kathyowens9901]

Excellent info on losing the footpaths to big business!!

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you Kathy

[@janecox4173]

I bet the knitted knights outfit is now in your wardrobe Rich

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Now that would be telling!!

[@qiajenaehamilton6638]

Oh, you didn't show the yummy stuff in the café! That's always fun! Thanks for the journey; loved it!. Yep, no free walking countryside here in the states. Everything is fenced off, with PRIVATE PROPERTY & NO TRESSPASSING signs about, sad.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Oh, I didn't realise it was the same in the States. And with all that land. What a shame that such a few people own so much and stop the rest of us enjoying it. Sorry about the café, we didn't actually go in as we decided to get back to the boat and move on to our next adventure.

[@qiajenaehamilton6638]

@@FloatingOurBoat No worries, maybe next time! Yes, only walks on public lands, such as Yosemite, beaches, & parks, but not wild walking...

[@virginiakirkupscrolltoto7794]

Report blocked footpaths to county council, they should have a footpath officer who checks paths and bridleways are keep clear

[@FloatingOurBoat]

We know we should do this and will try to make a point of it in future

[@sarkybugger5009]

Hi guys. Great to see the sun, after all the recent wind and rain. It's always funny when someone else goes arse over tit! Fran took it like the trooper that she is. Well played, to her. Chester is a quaint city, like York and Canterbury. I didn't realise until I visited that it was a port originally. It's five miles inland. Stay warm, and make the most of the weather. All the best.

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Sarky. Laughter is always the best medicine isn't it. By biggest problem was stopping giggling enough to actually get back up again. X

[@sarkybugger5009]

@@FloatingOurBoat For me personally, Isosorbide Mononitrate is the best medicine, but laughter comes a close second. ;o)

[@judithkitchingman4419]

Have you thought of getting some Muck Boots. I live in my Arctic Mid boots. The sole is fab and they are very warm. Xxx great video as usual thanks xx

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Hi Judith, thanks for watching. We walk for miles and need good walking boots, ours are comfortable and waterproof. Wellies take up too much precious space on the boat. x

[@christinegibbins6105]

Sorry you feel you have to rant at farmers. Yes, I agree many do respect the crops and keep their dogs under control, but many more don't. We get dog pooh bags hung in our hedge rows, crops tramplesd, the rubbish from a walking picnic strewn about, even glass bottles, gates left open, wire cut beside a stile, as the person cant use the stile. Dogs chasing, injuring and even killing sheep, upsetting cattle. Yes at times the footpaths are muddy and rutted by tractors, all part of the work we need to do to. You get green lanes so badly damaged by 4x4s and scramble bikes, or just the volume of walkers and horse riders. May I suggest some good wellie boots and walking sticks or poles, I find it makes my walks a lot easier in the present muddy conditions. I do love your vlogs, keep them coming. xx

[@FloatingOurBoat]

Thank you for your comment Christine. I'm sure there are some inconsiderate walkers, but that doesn't excuse inconsiderate landowners who ignore their responsibility to keep footpaths open. I'm not talking about a little mud, our walking boots cope very well with that, it is when a path is fenced over, unmarked and completely lost or impassable. Sometimes a field has been pushed, but without signposts how can we tell where the path is? Many of these paths have been their long before the farms and I have often had to abandon a country walk because the path has been removed. Do you not think we have a right to enjoy these ancient paths? I am not accusing all landowners, but most walks we do on official footpaths end up having no marked path so we end up walking across fields where we shouldn't be. That doesn't help anyone. We all need to respect the rights and responsibilities of others. Fran x

[@christinegibbins6105]

@@FloatingOurBoat If you find footpaths blocked or lost and they are shown on the definitive maps you can contact the local council, some parishes have a footpath warden, otherwise the local distict council, they are responible for the way marking. The land owner does have a duty to make sure the way is passable. Then the signs are often broken and thrown in the hedge. The lack of respect for the countryside breaks my heart. Take care you two, just want to explain the problems we have. xx

[@janeabbotts]

I hope the unorthodox beauty treatment was worth it Fran...:) Lovely vlog, thank you.

[@rontanser9369]

👾

[@rontanser9369]

Is that what you find the worst thing about living on a boat all the mud on the tow path’s

[@FloatingOurBoat]

The mud has been particularly bad along here. It's not usually too much of a problem, it just takes a little longer keeping the dogs clean.