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Traditionally the closing race of the season, the Colne Barge Match always provides a great spectacle as smacks and barges compete for the honours. The day begins early from the town of Brightlingsea, with a trip in the barge boat to the barge at anchor in Pyefleet Creek. The smacks are first away, with the …
Based on the beautiful River Orwell, the Pin Mill Barge Match is one of the highlights in any bargeman's calendar.Arthur Ransome, the author of Swallows and Amazons, loved these waters and it is easy to see why, with the woodland coming down to the waters edge and only stately homes and farmland in between.It is …
The Passage Match is unique in the barge racing calendar, sailing from the River Medway to the River Orwell in Suffolk.Depending on the tides, the race can start or finish in darkness - providing a very different challenge for competing crews.The weekend begins on Friday evening, with Edith May departing Lower Halstow dock and playing …
The annual Medway Barge Match traditionally runs from Gillingham Pier to Medway Bell Buoy and return, a course distance of 29 miles.
Between May and September, the East Coast plays host to a series of festivals and events. Take the opportunity to be aboard the barge for one of the Match days, which have been running since 1863. The prevailing conditions dictate whether you'll experience a tranquil day gliding around the river, or a romping sail tearing …