It's Tuesday, the 6th of August, and a familiar restlessness has set in. Belinda and I, both self-proclaimed introverts, crave an escape from the daily grind. Tomorrow, we're ditching our responsibilities for a day of peaceful paddling along the historic Basingstoke Canal. Our destination? The charming Barley Mow Pub, where we plan to indulge in a well-deserved lunch before making our way back to Crookham Wharf.

This will be our maiden voyage on the Basingstoke Canal, and the excitement is palpable. We've heard whispers of its tranquil beauty and rich history, a perfect backdrop for our tandem paddle boarding adventure. Our trusty Bluefin Cruise Carbon 15, designed for two, awaits its maiden voyage on this waterway.

A Glimpse into the Past: The Basingstoke Canal

The Basingstoke Canal, a marvel of engineering completed in 1794, stretches for 32 miles, connecting Basingstoke to the River Thames at Weybridge. Its purpose? To facilitate the transport of goods, primarily agricultural produce and timber, to London and beyond. While its commercial heyday has passed, the canal has found new life as a haven for leisure seekers.

Today, the canal's towpath beckons walkers, cyclists, and, of course, paddleboarders like us. Its tree-lined banks and serene waters offer an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Our Quiet Paddle: A Haven for Introverts

As introverts, Belinda and I cherish moments of solitude and connection with nature. Paddling along the Basingstoke Canal promises to be the perfect antidote to our busy lives. We envision gliding through peaceful stretches, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle sounds of birdsong.

The Barley Mow Pub, nestled along the canal's banks, is the ideal spot for a midday respite. We'll savour a delicious lunch, perhaps al fresco if the weather permits, before embarking on our return journey.

Planning Our Escape: The Logistics

Our plan is simple:

1. Arrive at Crookham Wharf early on Wednesday morning, eager to start our adventure.

2. Launch our Bluefin Cruise Carbon 15 tandem paddle board and make our way towards the Barley Mow Pub.

3. Enjoy a leisurely paddle, taking in the scenery and embracing the tranquillity of the canal.

4. Indulge in a hearty lunch at the Barley Mow Pub, relishing the flavours and the company of each other.

5. Retrace our path back to Crookham Wharf, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Embracing the Unknown: A New Adventure

While neither of us has ventured onto the Basingstoke Canal before, the allure of the unknown is part of the excitement. We're eager to discover hidden gems along the way, from charming villages to tranquil backwaters.

As we embark on this adventure, we invite you, our fellow introverts, to join us in spirit. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or simply curious about paddleboarding on the Basingstoke Canal, we hope our experience inspires you to carve out your own moments of tranquillity.

Stay tuned for our next blog post, where we'll share the highlights of our day on the water and our impressions of the Barley Mow Pub. Until then, happy paddling!