A Weekend Afloat: Newbury to Aldermaston and Back Again

There’s something special about escaping to the water for a couple of days. No traffic, no schedules—just the steady putter of the engine and the occasional moorhen darting out of the reeds. This weekend, we took the boat out from our home mooring in Newbury, aiming for a peaceful run to Aldermaston and back.

Day One: Newbury to Thatcham

We set off under blue skies, the sort that instantly puts you in the holiday mood. The canal was calm, winding gently past fields and trees just beginning to bloom into late-spring life. We made steady progress to Thatcham, where we found a good spot to moor up for the night. It’s a cosy little stretch, and by evening the air was filled with birdsong and the occasional quack from a nearby duck.

Day Two: Thatcham to Aldermaston

The next morning, we carried on toward Aldermaston. The waterway was busier than we’d expected—boating season is definitely waking up. Along the way, we passed nesting swans (giving them a very wide berth!) and some truly stunning scenery. That section of the canal really shows off when the sun hits the water just right.

We made our way through Woolhampton Lock, which always keeps things interesting. It’s one of those spots where the lock and swing bridge are tightly paired—you really have to keep your wits about you. Still, it’s all part of the charm.

When we arrived in Aldermaston, though, we hit a snag. Every mooring was taken. Not one spare space, no matter how hopefully we cruised past. It seems we weren’t the only ones with the idea for a spring weekend afloat.

The Journey Back (with a Twist)

Not to be deterred, we turned back in the hope of finding a spot along the way. Unfortunately, the canal was just too shallow where we tried to pull in. After a few frustrating attempts—and some careful reversing—we had no choice but to carry on all the way back to our home mooring in Newbury.

It wasn’t quite the leisurely overnight trip we’d imagined, but honestly, the journey itself made it worth it. Quiet stretches of water, the occasional wave from a passing boat, and the beauty of the canal waking up after winter—it’s why we love narrowboating in the first place.

Next time, we’ll set off a little earlier and maybe even plan for a backup mooring—but for now, we’re just happy to have had another weekend afloat.