The Tiverton Canal Company is one of only two companies who operate horse drawn barge trips in the UK, it is a family operated business with Phil the barge captain, Jacquie taking care of the bookings and shop, Lauren the Groomsman taking care of the horses and Sue running the onboard bar and the rest of the family working hard in the background.
In 2024 they will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the company.
The Tivertonion is a 72ft barge with a beam of 12ft and can seat 75 people in a weather protecting cabin, the business operates trips between April 1st and October 31st and can operate in most weather conditions except when it is very hot and humid which renders the horses unable to sweat and would put them at risk of heatstroke.
Trips start and finish in Tiverton Basin and go to East Manley Bridge on the Grand Western Canal which is 2 miles each way and taking 2.5 hours.
The commentary in the last part of the video was given by the Barge Captain, Phil, and has been reproduced with his kind approval.
It is vital we support this venture as it is a reminder of what used to happen in the 1800's and is a glimpse into our history and heritage, this also applies to other heritage attractions such as railways etc, sadly with the relentless march in the name of "progress" our past is being forgotten or sanitised to satisfy the narratives of a woke and vociferous minority or built over for short term profit.
For anyone concerned about the horses from what i have seen they are a valued and lovingly cared for important part of the family with their health and wellbeing being at the forefront of the business.
Tiverton Canal Company, The Wharf, Canal Hill, Tiverton
EX16 4HX
Phone: 0184 253345
Pay and display parking at the Wharf and money from the parking is used to maintain the canal