The Vale

We shuffled up the cut a short distance to be closer to Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Mooring rings were available right outside The Vale; the University of Birmingham village, housing 3500 students. There were a few other boats moored, leaving only one spot, underneath a huge sycamore that arched over the towpath. Will needed to saw a large branch off to stop it from knocking Rainboat's chimney off.

The towpaths were busy with young people making their way to and from uni and the city centre or just keeping fit by running or cycling. There was even a narrowboat taxi service during the week and a canoe club on Saturday morning. Come evening there was a bit of rowdiness from parties but nothing too bad.

Heavy rain fell for the next couple of days so dog walks were limited to the few dry spells. The Vale had car free paths to wander and was close to parkland and a lake. It was a nice change from the towpaths.

Our boat neighbours, Yvette and Paul, originated from Zimbabwe and were really friendly. They invited us round for an evening and while Vicky was too tired to make it, Will enjoyed a bit of socialising.

On the first dry day, we walked 20 minutes to the Botanical Gardens. We'd both been before, but not together. Vicky used one of the mobility scooters available for a £50 deposit. This way she could enjoy herself without worrying about getting too tired. Many of the outdoor plants were past their best but the autumn colours were coming through in the tree leaves and the national collection of cyclamen were in bloom. We lost ourselves in our surroundings for a few hours and felt refreshed after the visit.もっと詳しく