Travels by Narrowboat - "The Old Familiar Places" - S10E03

Aslan and I continue south along the Oxford canal, having joined this historic inland waterway in the previous episode, at Hawkesbury Junction.
Passing through the small hamlet of Ansty, I later arrive at a visitor mooring perfectly situated to take a walk to Brinklow. Whilst here, I check out the remains of the village's ancient Motte & Bailey castle, as well as unexpectedly meet a very-long-time fan of the channel, and Travels by Narrowboat.
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#travelsbynarrowboat #season10 #narrowboat #liveaboard #canalboat #aslan #alternativeliving #continuouscruising #oxfordcanal #ansty #brinklow #motteandbailey #castle #strettonstop #historic #countryhousegent #meetingfans

[@CountryHouseGent]

Did you know I have a "Buy Me A Coffee" page buymeacoffee.com/countryhousegent Perfect for when you'd like to contribute to the channel, or simply want to buy me a coffee/pork pie/beer/lamb vindaloo (delete where applicable). Cheers,

[@abyssiniahenry128]

Content always worthy of anticipation and waiting for that never disappoints. Genuine, original, expertly crafted and just down right enjoyable from every aspect. Videos worth watching that enriches and betters humanity as a whole and to each individual in one form or another that views it. There is nothing that can be disliked about Travels by Narrowboat.

[@CountryHouseGent]

That's so very fabulous to hear. You're so welcome. Thank you.

[@christopherperkins3416]

I couldn't agree more.😀

[@lord.onk99]

Well put. Here Here.

[@happysporran]

Some can always find a reason to dislike unfortunately, but I agree, it never fails to gladden my spirits.

[@rikkiharcourt3868]

Lovely to be back with Aslan exploring the waterways. I am dead envious

[@craig5477]

The narrow boats you pass have never ceased to amaze about the “Things” some feel a good addition. From boats so crowded with stuff the boat is barely visible to just some object that had me scratching my head like … “What?”

[@pamcullen537]

The boats are as individual as the people who live on them, we have no problem making them into a place we call home, unlike the rows of new build houses that have no character or personality 💕🦆

[@Tony02062]

Chug chug chug sounds of freedom

[@Michael_Brown1964]

I just wish your videos were longer Kevin, you're not just the best youtuber on the canals, but the most professional videographer...... ( Long Pause)..........'In The World'

[@judyanthony5480]

Lovely new episode! I appreciated your walk into the village so I could see the beautiful old houses and a nice big old church. Not to mention that you worked up a real sweat to give us all such a gorgeous view from the top of the motte. I even started singing “I can see for miles and miles …” just before you did. 😁 I am that old. 😁

[@mark_vandy1969]

Your part-year Aslan/part-year motorbike system seems ideal! Most of the time chillin’ along the canals, but still able to fulfill that “need for speed” for a little while. Good to see that you still appear to be in the same “lazy days & childhood ways” mindset you were the last time you showed us the Brinklow area...like a young lad “without so much as a care in the world.” Thanks, Kevin for another refreshing episode of your life traveling the canals! Cheers from Nashville, 😊

[@catherinemarygrandjean5572]

You are fortunate to be able to wok and ride a bike. Health gets to be a factor with age...eyes are precious.

[@CountryHouseGent]

I appreciate that Mark and yes, it's taken a while but I've gradually been fine tuning so sort of life-balance.

[@vetworker]

I love your slow pace of life on the canals. I trust you’ll never consider moving back to bricks and mortar.

[@suzannehague5203]

I Kevin is luvely to see you on asian enjoy your time on canals with the scenery all for now 😊

[@skyer3894]

Wonderful relaxing episode with perfect editing. 🎉😊. Brings a lot of calmed nerves to this office worker.

[@judiemjacobson4613]

Such an amazing country. And how interesting to see how some people had their boats moored at a place where there was some kind of little living area. Such a great life

[@chadtuggle9814]

Greetings from Kentucky, USA!! When you get to Oxford, I hope you go to Tolkien's gravesite, would love to see my favorite narrowboater with my favorite author. Also, 2 👍 for The Who ❤

[@tamithirion7766]

Love your videos, I agree about the motor way noise. Your adventures are very interesting, and I think it would be great for one's mental health. Best wishes Kevin Cheer's

[@user-br2bf1hl6n]

Thanks for sharing the journey with us Kevin. Safe travels, Deb

[@wendyposselt1288]

As you moor up, I always enjoy a view from down in the grass. Like a kid laying on her stomach on a summer's day. Don't get that view much these days. And also enjoy the close-ups of you fixing the rope in place. One more skill of many.

[@CountryHouseGent]

Love that image, Wendy. A summer's meadow. 🙂

[@richardwhipple3522]

You are brilliant as always. Finding a perfect way of making the best of two world - narrow boating and motorcycling! You never cease to amaze us! Richard and Becky

[@clpotis]

Another brilliant episode. I’m continually in awe of the active boating culture on the canals - lovely! Your God Save the King comment had me in stitches 🤣

[@CountryHouseGent]

Ha, I know what you mean.

[@Nook747]

😅..me too

[@davidrobertthomas1515]

Another great start to my weekend. And with you very near the town of Rugby you’ve set things up perfectly as the Rugby World Cup kicks off this weekend. Thanks Kevin!

[@oneshoan]

I’ve watched a second time. Actually three times. What I don’t understand is why anyone would think you could put a touring bike on a narrowboat. If they knew anything about motorcycles they wouldn’t have asked the question. As always thank you for sharing your adventures and thoughts. You are the godfather of the British canals!!!!!

[@fookdatchit]

The visit to the Mott and bailey was wicked Kevin.

[@steveweave2797]

You're so right about the bike Kevin... It wouldn't do to have it on board Aslan... it should have it's own narrowboat!!! ROFLMBO... cheers from Tennessee, USA

[@fumbleknit719]

Motor vehicle white noise--it winds me up tightly. Then, I get to a corner I can turn on my way home. Walking farther and farther away from the Big Rush Road, I can feel muscles loosening, shoulders lowering, and heart calming down. My mood lightens and peace returns. So, yeah, I know exactly what you mean.

[@woodyjenny6353]

Ahh time sit back and to enter relaxation, thank you Kevin.

[@HelenCooper-cl8jg]

0:32 No way ! There she is, Wrekin, the little hire boat we are currently staying on for the week! We did Brinklow to Hawkesbury junction today and turned ready to head back to Braunston for Monday! Have just eaten in The Greyhound…. Great pub, lovely atmosphere and frequented by really friendly people! I don’t want to go home. 😭

[@CountryHouseGent]

Hawkesbury Junction and the Greyhound pub are in the top 5 of my favourite canal places, along with Fradley Junction and Nantwich. The Greyhound is how a pub should be. I never wanted to leave either when I've been there 🙂

[@HelenCooper-cl8jg]

@@CountryHouseGent My favourite canal place is Kinver on the Staffs and Worcestershire canal. The journey from Autherley Junction to Stourport is my absolute favourite. Would love to see you film that one day!

[@jules9303]

Thank you 😊

[@CountryHouseGent]

Thank you Jules. You're welcome

[@paulplant6486]

Always a pleasure to watch your vlogs. You are the one who got me into the narrowboat vlogs originally during lockdown

[@roaming-aus]

I hired a Rose Narrowboat 30 years ago when I holidayed in England from Australia. Was the best week of the trip. Love love love the narrowboat experience.

[@Lynette21122431]

Thanks for another great cruise! I’m looking forward to watch next.

[@StevesRepairs]

Thanks Kevin for taking us along on this beautiful cruise and with a view of your mighty BMW. The Motte has been invaded by foreign invaders, Bunny Rabbits, lol. I hope that you are doing well. Take care and all the best. Stevie

[@annwags]

"quite liberating" indeed. And quite a far cry from the busy pace many of us live at. Thanks for another beautiful trip.

[@jameshallen007]

Fabulous and subtle as ever!! 🤣

[@rseka1979]

You never fail to disappoint, avidly watched Travels By Narrowboat since day one. Thanks for posting another fine episode Sir! Top Marks!

[@infinitejusticeone]

Loved the tour!

[@flossysmith7307]

Friday...... 5pm...... cuppa...... you tube...... BEST 30 minutes of telly watched all week.. cheers kevin, highlight we so look forward to. All the best and thanks for rhe video. Floss & jan x

[@pamcullen537]

Many thanks Kevin for this one, so many memories. The long line of boats you passed, our good friends are moored second to last (black boat with pram hood) and where you moored up I replaced some rotten windows in mine. The farm there is owned by a lovely gentleman called Mr Powers who is 96yrs old and still mows his lawn & keeps busy. The sunken boat next to you turned out to not have the weed hatch properly closed. 💕🦆

[@wendyposselt1288]

I looked up why narrowboats sink and read this was one of the issues. (The most common is inattention at the locks.) I wonder who is responsible to remove abandoned or sunken boats?

[@pamcullen537]

@@wendyposselt1288 I think the responsibility lies on the owner, in this case the boat was sold to someone local

[@scottalpervitz1019]

Good run.😁

[@Smithers1250]

Another quality video Kevin! Was a pleasure to finally meet you in the flesh and chat to you, the intrepid explorer. Gary & Mel (Nb:Five Horizons)

[@CountryHouseGent]

Happy cruising to you both

[@joanmccarty6445]

I m enjoying your new season Kevin camera and editing as well your bits of information and commentary excellent as usual!

[@davidsedlickas8222]

Hi Kevin hope you are well. Whilst watching Aslan chugging along it got me thinking. A fuel polish possibly could help lessen the smokein 'joe Frazier ' from the stack. You are a God of the vloggers and religious viewing saves going to church. Safe journey travels Kevin Keep safe warm dry and virus free.

[@chrishobbs58]

Thoroughly enjoyed this episode, Kevin! Especially enjoyed the Mott and Bailey...first I've seen up close, even virtually. That was quite a climb! Great scenery and commentary as always. Really appreciate your time and attention to detail on these vlogs. Cheers, until next time!

[@LarrySams71]

thanks, Kevin, for posting this soothing and undramatic episode -- outstanding countryside along the Oxford, spectacular views, horizons and skies similar to those seen in my native texas -- may I state that I agree with your policy concerning motorcycle administration, putting the bike in storage insures that it will be undamaged when next you see it -- looking forward to next week's installment!!

[@Dannyshort1003]

Friday night viewing sorted again. Cheers Kevin. Hope the heatwave isn’t making life too uncomfortable aboard Aslan.❤️

[@CountryHouseGent]

It can get a bit overwhelming at times but have to find a shady tree to sit it out.

[@ronfeldman4386]

It is amazing how peaceful narrow boats are. It definitely will allow you to understand life.

[@Moffit366]

Cool travels by motorcycle is back! Can’t wait, we’ll I guess I will have to but , woo hoo!

[@urbanfox53]

Hi Kevin, hope you are well. If memory serves me correctly, on your last visit to Brinklow you bought a pork pie from the village butchers, and you apparently enjoyed it very much best you've tasted for a long time, back in series one I believe, take care, Paul & Lyn.

[@CountryHouseGent]

Ah yes I did get a pork pie but sadly this time by the time I got there, the butchers had closed for the day. 😕

[@helenel4126]

Lovely, just lovely. Enjoy your summer weather, Kevin!

[@CountryHouseGent]

Always lovely to hear from you Helene, cheers for watching.

[@Mainstayjay]

I loved hearing about your motorcycle travels! I have been traveling via E-bike this summer and tent camping. I recently acquired a solar charging system for the bicycle that folds up neatly and fits into the panniers. It takes quite a while to charge that way but eventually it does work. I try not to hurry anyway so it is fine. Back in August, I toured Gettysburg Battlefield on my bike and stayed about ten miles (16km) away at a campground for a few days. A single person tent, inflatable sleeping mat, sleeping bag, one change of clothes and minimal toiletries was all that was needed. My Gettysburg ride was 85 miles (136km) one way but I did have the electric assist of the motor and two batteries. I was very ready to arrive at home though by the time that I struggled into my house at the end of that trip. I hope the week ahead treats you well Kevin!

[@CountryHouseGent]

Wow, touring on any kind of electric transport must be an endeavour and a half, unless touring California with 16 hours of sunshine. Here in the UK, it would make a nice ornament for 9 months of the year - unless you tow a petrol generator behind you that is. 🤭 Cheers for your contribution, it's greatly appreciated.

[@Mainstayjay]

@@CountryHouseGent yes, it can be quite a challenge. Sometimes it is more sitting and waiting for a charge than it is touring but I chose to go about it this way. No insurance costs or registration needed. Many times I will find an electric outlet that someone will let me use or the campgrounds that I stay at will have electricity so I don't always have to rely on solar alone.

[@CountryHouseGent]

Have you seen Long Way Up with Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman? They had a similar experience on their electric Harleys. Asking local businesses and residents if they could use their power all the way up South America.

[@Mainstayjay]

Yes I have seen it and loved it! It was partially an inspiration to do my own travels although what Ewan and Charley did far surpasses the distances that I travel. I only recently followed Charlie's social media but I have been a fan of Ewan's films since Trainspotting. I really enjoyed that you mentioned that show, my lady and I are actually working our way through the episodes again.

[@kipphelan]

That was a good long walk, Kevin. Great video as always. You are appreciated ...all the best...Chris 🇨🇦

[@jeremy5363]

Always a great way to begin a weeks end. 😊

[@mrengland6325]

nice bike bud and thanks for the show

[@concealedcarrycurmudgeon2818]

Always a pleasure to spend time with you and Aslan

[@colleenbalch328]

Would people of Queen Victoria’s time even recognize that streamlined beast, whizzing by, as a train? What a contrast to your world, Kevin.

[@xavierglansbeek2876]

Enjoyable video footage (as usual), Kevin. Also informative. Thank you.

[@sherried79]

First of all, I adore your channel all around. It's beneficial in many ways for me. For example, it's always a bit of a history lesson because I have never been to your country. So, I hope this does not come across negatively, but I miss the maps you would put in the screen of your current location and destination. Not because I am a nosey human or want to stalk you, obviously it would be difficult from this distance hehe. But, I do love maps and I guess it's part of the history lesson I was referring to. However, I absolutely understand not wanting to put it up because locals could stalk you. But, I do miss it. 😊 happy trails!

[@ThomCurley]

I saved up a double bill, which I’ve enjoyed today. As always, a lovely vibe, some good humour and nicely shot. Class.

[@SteveAndrews-i6o]

Yep definitely a beautiful view

[@geoffreygoodyear3746]

British summer on the canals...the domain of the happy and at ease👍🙏...great episode❤

[@kennycrossland3032]

Great life you live Kevin. I'm envious

[@stevemarvin]

Always love your videos, Kevin, but this one seemed extra good for some reason. Maybe it's just me, though. Thanks man!

[@GapBahnDirk]

Two excellent pastimes. Canal boating and motorcycling. 👍👍

[@Santafefrank]

Thanks Kevin 😊

[@dereksmith6126]

I very much valued The Who reference. And it goes without saying (but I'll say it anyway) every video you upload. Thanks Kev

[@CountryHouseGent]

Pleased you enjoyed it and cheers for following along. 🙂

[@christophersamuelson451]

Fantastic! Another episode!

[@CountryHouseGent]

You're welcome Christopher. One every Friday, 5pm GMT.

[@christophersamuelson451]

Thank You ! Been close to 40 years since I was last on the Oxford. Looking forward to seeing the old pubs and if they are still there. Cheers Kevin!

[@glennclarke9787]

Cheers Kevin, really relaxing 😊xx

[@patbrandow5852]

What a lovely journey today with you and Aslan. ❤ Many thanks! I have a question for you. Why is it that some folks just abandon their boats on the canals? Always such a sad sight. Like a building in the city mid-wrecking ball destruction with its "bones" exposed, all dignity lost.

[@CountryHouseGent]

I think some just give up, ir more likely run out of money.

[@patbrandow5852]

@@CountryHouseGent How sad . . . all the way 'round. Thanks for responding.

[@JohnBrookhouser-so8qz]

Always look forward to your videos. I've seen every one and some over again

[@oneshoan]

I’m thrilled you still travel by motorbike 🏍️. I’m going to watch again tomorrow because I missed a few things, it is Friday afternoon here.

[@charlesebyjr2925]

Kevin, those 3 days went well, enjoyed the ride on Aslan and even enjoyed your singing 😮, cheers Charlie from Pennsylvania 😊 Oh thank you for the dimensions that you gave me.

[@Nook747]

Thank you Kevin. Another great video..YEY !

[@juliec70]

Beautiful day for cruising on the canal

[@michaelboeh2277]

The oddest thing has happened. After watching every season of Travels By Narrowboat my wife tells me I am starting to speak like Kev! Now mind you I am a born and raised Texan complete with a Texas draw, but she tells me I am now starting to use words like "bits" and "proper" in my conversations. It must be true as I was at the local watering hole (Bar) and told the bartender I would like a pint. He looked at me like I was nuts! Is this normal or should I be concerned?

[@wendyposselt1288]

I live in Chaska, Minnesota USA (of the movie "Fargo" fame) and I am ALSO finding myself picking up bits and bobs. It's sneaking into my novel writing, too!

[@fredmahar5431]

Another great video Kevin!....cheers !

[@Daytona2]

Just love the bridges. I hadn't taken in where you were in series one. And I didn't want to know - it was just a lovely journey. It was my first time watching YT canal content and I just became immersed and wonderfully lost in it. A butty boat for your bike ? Nah... too much hassle - you're arrangement sounds perfect.

[@ExBellmonkey]

Leaving your bike moored up lol !

[@CountryHouseGent]

Yep, a slip of the tongue there. 😁

[@johngoss164]

That moored up boat at start of vid, Wrekin, my dad and me hired it for a week 9 years ago 😆

[@allanf8578]

The weekends here - time to crack open a can or 2 and watch TBN

[@stephenworthington8508]

Thanks for another viv. Stephen and Jane. SETTLE north yorkshire.

[@stewartscales1564]

Hey Kevin another fantastic vlog good footage and lovely countryside......

[@elizabethmaybrown6715]

It's nice to follow along a canal I have been on, brings back happy memories 😊

[@kplante7881]

Nice scenery…. Thanks for sharing!

[@jeangurnee]

Very much enjoyed the tour of the Motte & Bailey Castle :)

[@6360carolyn]

Yay! A new episode 🤗

[@annh8885]

🎶Oh what a Beautiful Day! 🎶🎵🌼 Seems like it was not long ago when the canal was all iced up. Thanks again for a lovely view. -Cheers from Seattle! ☺

[@CountryHouseGent]

Very true, it was only back in February/March I was stuck for 14 days at Hinckley on the Ashby. Time flies when you're keeping busy.

[@Kev_the-Brinklow-Kayaker]

Hi once more Kevin, uou definitely done my home village proud, I'm really pleased you enjoyed your visit and you had nice things to mention about it we all love living here. I didn't come across as a complete buffoon on video eh but very close. ME Kev the Brinklow kayaker being shown on your video in Brinklow undeniably made my day thank uou so very much. Agree fabulous view from the tump glad you made it to the top without having lost your breathe. The swing Bridge is new it can be moved much easier now even whole im on my kayak I'm pleased to say. Where you ate your Celery that section of the canal has some old arches under it but hidden only 2 remain viewable and the old arm you passed the bridge just padt the arched that bridge is where the canal used to route through brinklow and rejoin on the bend where you passed a canal boat with a blue dragon on it. Much shorter route now. You moored your boat right at the bridge where I put my kayak in thecwster it's such a shame you missed me paddling as I'd just arrived home from joliday I didn't kayak. Lovely and quite except the odd dozen trains every 10 min. So pleased you visited Brinklow please visit again hope I see you whole I'm paddling next time 😊 All the very best and thankyou for taking the time out to chat and have a picture taken with me. From Kev the Brinklow Kayaker Search for me on youtube some old video on there me kayaking.😊😊

[@CountryHouseGent]

Sorry for the late reply Kevin. Hope you enjoyed your appearance. Yep, I think you came across perfectly well. 😁

[@dawnloreee]

Spectacular seeing you again!!!

[@rickonnye2001]

Nice bike😊😊😊lovely video 😊😊😊thank you

[@randyw2539]

Well, you could do the opposite and have a little Aslan II/Bimmer Butty made and haul the BMW along.... 😆 What a palaver that would be! The moorings at 17:45 were idyllic! Your feelings about the Oxford translate over the internet, it feels very peaceful from this end, too. Hope you're keeping well.

[@Setinmywaysalways]

All right parking your Range Rover beside your mooring, very posh!

[@CountryHouseGent]

Pure luxury. 🙂

[@trevorspottiswood985]

Another fascinating and relaxing video. Thank you.

[@TerryC69]

Hi Kevin! The weather seemed to be quite agreeable for cruising. I was also left with the perception that there was a good bit more boating traffic than previously. Nice countryside indeed. Cheers!

[@CountryHouseGent]

Very true Terry, the canals do seem busier this year, even considering it's Summer and the height of boating season.

[@martyb3783]

Great video as always Kevin. Also that's a beautiful bike you have.

[@lspringerjones]

Appreciated the Who reference.

[@CountryHouseGent]

👍 I did wonder if anyone would know what I was on about. 🙂

[@blakehahn-atlantaga8510]

Beautiful content Kevin! Love your relaxing vlogs and footage of the canals and villages.

[@martinkavanagh196]

Lovely Job Kevin. Thank You.

[@Balthazar1963]

Lovely episode! I like going along on your walks Kevin. British countryside is so beautiful. Here in the US we don't have any heritage type structures of our own, although... there are some ancient native structures. I'm about 15 miles from a Choctaw Indian mound that looks a lot like the Motte you toured us through... but... without the moat. Thx Kevin!

[@CountryHouseGent]

I'd very much enjoy visiting your country's Indian history. I find all of that fascinating.

[@Balthazar1963]

I find your life interesting, and relatable. I love European history... and Britain is rich in history. As I've mentioned... I lived in Seven Oaks, Kent... for six years as a boy. My family also lived in St Johns Wood... basically in a flat... at the round-about... where the famous "Abbey Road" photo happened. Abbey Road, Grove End Road, and Circus Road.... about 3 blocks from the St. Johns wood underground station, near the American School in London, and... about 5 blocks from Paul McCartney's home. Anyway... yeah... every spring I till my garden, and then the rain comes. When I plant veggies... usually find 2-3 napped flint artifact tools. Cheers Kevin, be well, and keep on boatin' ! PS, you are welcome to visit. I could show you the sights. BTW, I am a motorcycle guy as well... currently only have one... a Suzuki DR650es. A dependable touring bike (anywhere bike) Cheers!!@@CountryHouseGent

[@richardhyatt-beekeeping]

I'm still watching every one. Such a calming way of travel. Seems like you have a bit more traffic on the canal today.

[@mickclark427]

Hello Kevin mick from Hull really enjoyed this episode hope you are well and I will look forward to your next episode 😊😊

[@t-n-tew7468]

Beautiful bike.

[@shawnsalazar5416]

I am not really a bike person, but after seeing yours , it has me thinking now, if i had to get one i would like that same model with the same color scheme as yours.