Saturday was a beautiful day, a February gem, made for boating and perfect for exploring Wellhouse Bay on the Severn. Two sailing canoes and three canoe sailors arrived at Lydney harbour ready to blow out the cobwebs and enjoy this great river.

We were blessed with a blue sky and a fresh South Westerly breeze to push us up river on the incoming tide. Looking into the distance we could just make out the Sara lifeboat station at Purton, perched high on the sea wall next to the old lock.

Phil sailed across the river and was soon enjoying the wind in his sail!

We sailed with the wind behind us as we made steady progress towards Purton. The tide was only 5.5 metres today so we had the chance to enjoy the view for a change.

The shoreline in Wellhouse Bay is always deserted and makes for a real feeling of solitude. Perfect!

This was the first trip that my Dad had made on the Severn in my canoe, which was actually a great occasion for us both as he was involved in the build process back in 2007. This is also one of his favourite places.

Here’s the breakwater at Tites Point. I was taken Eel fishing here as a young lad by my Dad.

You can just see the bridge pillars of the Severn Railway bridge which was knocked down by the two tanker barges in 1960

Behind Phil are the Purton Hulks. Old barges brought here to the place of rest.

Here we are anchored near Frampton sands to enjoy a cup of tea in our favourite cafe! We waited until slack water before setting sail again to beat our way back to Lydney.

three hours after setting out we arrived back at Lydney with the sun low in the sky. The Severn once again providing us with a peaceful and rewarding sail and as always a different trip to any before. We feel very lucky to live close to this river and all it has to offer.

Here’s a quick peek at life aboard

Steve :