The Caledonian Canal

Aurum Press1998, pp98, illus:photos & maps, 1-85410-554-X, £9.99,

Combining information for boaters, walkers and cyclists may work well forr other canal guides in this series, but here the boater does not get as much as he might expect for his money. The history and geology of the Great Glen are clearly and concisely covered. So is the information on things to do and see on the way, but there is scope for more, especially for the boater who frequents or lingers on the Canal. Neither the "marina" in the Inverness river, nor Camus an Gall opposite Fort William is mentioned for a positive suggestion of where to stop outside the sea locks. The route maps are wasteful, being replicated, but with untidy overprinting so the exact location of a feature is unclear. Correction (from experience): Caley Marina does not have gas - the nearest source at Muirtown is the garage on the west side of the Basin. You will still benefit from the excellent and free information pack from British Waterways. BT