Thames sailing barge

We spent an enjoyable day in Faversham. We walked on the Saxon Shore Way through the salt marshes by the creeks.

We had lunch in a 17thC pub The Shipwrights Arms in Hollowshore by the Swale. The pub is located below sea level. The weather was so good we ate outside in the garden along with other walkers and their dogs. The publican said it was the first day this year that the garden had been open.

After lunch we walked by the boatyard and came across this old Thames sailing barge. I was surprised at its name,Lady Daphne, as some 30 or so years ago I sailed along The Thames from Tower Bridge to the Woolwich Barrier on this barge. As a passenger, not crew, I must add. The Lady Daphne was built in Rochester in 1923 and has since been restored and used for charters and private functions. I imagine it has been relocated to Iron Wharf for repair.

Faversham is a beautiful town of many attractions. Apart from the shipyards, rivers, creeks and the antique shops located in old wharves, it has 500 listed buildings, mainly private houses, and is the home of Shepherd Neame brewery, Britain's oldest brewer. The brewery has been in Faversham since 1698 and there is no shortage of pubs in the town.