Why Tooley’s Boatyard is the Heart of the Banbury Canal Chronicles
The best stories are the ones found right on our doorstep. Following the incredible success of last year’s Castle Quay Chronicles, we knew exactly where our next adventure would take us: the historic, shimmering waters of the Oxford Canal.
The Living History of Tooley’s
If you’ve come out of Castle Quay by Banbury Museum and Gift Shop to head to the canalside, you’ve passed a piece of living history. Tooley’s Boatyard is the oldest working dry dock on the inland waterways, dating back to 1778. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where the smell of woodsmoke and the ring of the blacksmith’s hammer still fill the air.
We are supporting Tooley’s this year because they are the guardians of Banbury’s maritime soul. From their historic forge to their specialist shop, they keep the traditional skills of the canal alive. It is this unique atmosphere, the blend of old-world grit and waterside charm, that we want our local children to capture in this year’s book.
Take a Cruise on the Dancing Duck
You can’t talk about Tooley’s without mentioning the star of the show: the Dancing Duck. During the summer season, this iconic boat offers trips along the Oxford Canal, providing a duck’s-eye view of Banbury that you just can’t get from the pavement. It’s the perfect way to find inspiration for a story or a sketch!