The Beverley Barge Preservation Society is celebrating a significant milestone this year as their first barge, Syntan, turns 75. To mark this occasion, the society is offering people the unique opportunity to travel on former working barges in East Yorkshire as part of heritage open days. Visitors will have the chance to learn about the vessels in a floating museum and take a trip along Beverley Beck.
Syntan, Sun, and Mermaid are the three barges that have been lovingly restored by the society’s dedicated volunteers over the years. These vessels hold a special place in the history of the area and offer a glimpse into the maritime heritage of Beverley. Iain Campbell, a trustee for the society, expressed his excitement about sharing this experience with the public, stating that there is nothing quite like traveling by boat and exploring a side of Beverley that many people may not often see.
Syntan, the oldest of the barges, will be open as an interactive museum where visitors can explore and learn about the history of the barges and the Beckside area of Beverley. Displaying donated artifacts and old photos, the museum aims to provide insight into the rich maritime heritage of the region. Mr. Campbell highlighted the importance of showcasing the beck to residents who may not be aware of its existence, making the open days a valuable opportunity for education and exploration.
Sun, the second vessel acquired by the society, faced challenges in its restoration due to funding issues. However, with the help of generous donations, the barge was successfully refurbished and transformed into a trip boat. Sun’s chairs from East Yorkshire Motor Services and tables from Northern Rail add a unique touch to the vessel, creating a nostalgic atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Mermaid, the third barge in the society’s collection, offers „taster“ trips for groups of up to 10 people on Beverley Beck. These trips have proven to be incredibly popular, with participants returning from their journey buzzing with excitement. Mr. Campbell emphasized the magical experience of traveling on a boat and encouraged visitors to explore the different offerings available, from smaller taster trips on Mermaid to larger excursions on Sun or Syntan downstream into Hull.
The open days, scheduled for September 6th and 8th, will provide a wonderful opportunity for the public to experience the beauty and history of Beverley Beck. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a maritime lover, or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Beverley Barge Preservation Society’s open days are sure to offer something special for everyone. Don’t miss out on this chance to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of East Yorkshire’s waterways.
