Robbie Cumming returns to our screens this Tuesday, continuing his gentle odyssey through Britain’s waterways on “Canal Boat Diaries.” This episode finds him working the Oxford Canal, a stretch known for its tranquil beauty and the occasional navigational challenge. As Robbie journeys from Aynho Wharf to Bablock Hythe, he encounters a few bumps along the way, literally. A close encounter with a hire boat and an unexpected run-in with a hedge test his boating skills.
The episode also features Robbie tackling the more formidable river locks of the Upper River Thames, a change of pace from the more manageable canal locks. These larger locks present a different kind of puzzle, requiring careful maneuvering and a steady hand. It’s a reminder that even in the most idyllic settings, there are always practical matters to attend to.
This 300-mile expedition across the Midlands and northern England isn’t just about the miles logged, though. “Canal Boat Diaries” is about appreciating the slower pace of life, the beauty of the countryside, and the unique perspective that only comes from experiencing it from the water.
“Canal Boat Diaries” airs Tuesday, 20 May at 8:00 PM GMT on U&Yesterday.
