During November and early December the Canal and River Trust are auctioning off over 100 items of waterways memorabilia. Hidden away in their yards across the South East they’ve discovered various items which may be of interest to canal enthusiasts, including disused British Waterways signs, and copies of prints, such as an old Grand Junction Canal distance table.

Dare I say that Christmas is approaching and these would make quirky gifts for the canal boater who has everything. But what else can be found on aution sites for canal boaters? Love it or loathe it there’s plenty of canalware to be snapped up. You can easily pick up the usual coal scuttles, kettles and Buckby cans painted with roses and castles. But if your loved one already has this familiar paraphernalia try searching for something a bit more unusual. I found a bird feeder, step ladder, milk churn, a rolling pin and some antique wooden ice skates - all painted with traditional roses!

Those interested in canal history may also appreciate a piece of Measham ware. This earthern ware historically associated with canals and narrowboats has a dark brown lead glaze, often with flowers and a motto painted in white clay. It was popular among boaters to have the design personalised. Charming Victorian tea pots, jugs and kettles are available in this very distinctive style. You can even find a traditional bargee tobacco jar sometimes.

If you search for canal art on auction sites it provides an overwhelming number of results. You can find beautiful colourful paintings of waterways scenes, or prints of vintage photographs from the days of cargo carrying on the canals. Photography prints available to buy include dreamy scenes of Amsterdam or Venice, or gritty images created by Banksy beside London’s canals.

My favourite gift to receive is a book. Some of the best canal boating books that I’ve read are: Precious Cargo: 50 Years of Hotel Boats by Robin Smithett, Ramlin Rose: The Boatwoman’s Story by Sheila Stewart and For Better For Worse, For Richer For Poorer by Damien and Siobhan Horner (read the Boatshed book review). It’s the real life story of a couple who travelled the canals of France with two young children.

So if you’re buying a gift for the canal boater in your life this Christmas think outside the box and consider something a little more original.

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