Giles started Camberwell Covers in 1998 after we moved onto the narrowboat ‘Camberwell Beauty’. A time served tradesman in antique upholstery, he began by making a cratch cover for Camberwell and was soon asked to make covers for friends and local boaters.  Within two years the business had grown and Jill was able to leave work ‘ashore’ to join Giles and, with no need to be in one location, we were able to become continuous cruisers.

Initially only making cratch covers we soon expanded into making cratch boards and cruiser canopies complete with stainless steel frames.  Five years working while cruising allowed us to develop our skills and knowledge while the continued expansion of stock and tools left us little ballast in Camberwell Beauty and, not wanting to give up waterborne life, we made the move to Hawthorn, a 12' beam Dutch Barge that we bought as a shell and fitted out ourselves. With so much more space we now have a dedicated workshop and are able to carry much more stock.  Of course having a wide beam barge means that we no longer cruise the narrow system but we are happy to liaise with customers to advise our nearest point. For more information on our whereabouts and cruising plans please refer to the route planner page.