Join us to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the restoration of Roger, our historic canal trading narrowboat
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 17, 2025, starting at 11:00 AM
- Location: Batchworth Lock, 99 Church Street, Rickmansworth, WD3 1JJ
Join us at the Batchworth Boat Rally on Saturday, May 17, 2025, as we celebrate a significant milestone in maritime heritage—the 25th anniversary of the restoration of “Roger,” the last wooden narrowboat still working on the Grand Union Canal.
This historic narrowboat, built in 1936 by Bushell Brothers of Tring for Aylesbury coal merchant and canal carrier Arthur Harvey-Taylor, was meticulously restored by the Rickmansworth Waterways Trust to its original design between 1997 and 2001.
Highlights:
- Historic Boat Tour: Discover more about our rich canal heritage and the fascinating story of Roger with our free guided tours. Over the weekend both Roger and Albert, a wooden Ovaltine boat also restored by Chris Collins, will be showcased together in the Chess Lock, adjacent to Batchworth Lock. Tours start from 11.00am.
- Art Exhibition: Rickmansworth and District Art Society are staging an exhibition in the Education Centre on Saturday and Sunday, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Entrance is free.
- Boat Rally Cruise: During the weekend enjoy the Batchworth Boat Rally and the Floating Market from the best seats in the house – aboard our boats Spirit and Pride of Batchworth. We’ll be running cruises at regular times throughout the weekend so you’ll get a unique view of the wonderful array of canal boats and floating traders from across the country. Phone the Lock Centre: 01923 778282 to reserve your seats to avoid disappointment on the day! Cruises start from 10.15am
- Live music and bar: Batchworth Sea Scouts are offering live music, a barbeque and a bar.
This event is a testament to the enduring legacy of our waterways and the vessels that navigated them. We invite you to be part of this special celebration, honouring the craftsmanship and history of “Roger” and the vibrant community that keeps our canal traditions alive.
Some helpful links
How to find us
Download our map for our location and information on parking and transport links.
