The Matthew - 27 August 2016

On Bank Holiday Saturday Brunel members swopped their TR wheels for a life afloat aboard The Mathew on a return trip down the Avon Gorge in Bristol. The ship, a reproduction of John Cabot's vessel that sailed to discover Newfoundland some 400 years ago, took us out of the floating harbour and into the Avon passing under Brunel's famous Clifton Suspension Bridge. A little local drizzle early on was soon dispensed with and with the ship's bar open the group enjoyed a fine weather cruise with smooth sea state along the gorge taking in the landscape and the wildlife. The veteran ship The Balmoral was also out on the river and it was interesting to see the two vessels manoeuvring past each other in the narrow shallows of the Avon. Refreshments at the end of the trip were provided by The Wild Beer Restaurant on the dockside where their unique version of fish and chips were served in wooden boxes with a wide range of unusual beers. Our thanks go to Elf for organising a very memorable day out.