Observing the barges from the Pont des Arts in Paris sparks in Richard Goodwin a strong desire to join their nomadic lifestyle. And so he buys Leontyne – or Leo to her friends ¬– an ancient, rusty barge that has been plying the Thames for over sixty years. After patching her up and roping in some wise men of the rivers, Richard plans an epic journey; one that will take him across the stormy channel, along beautiful rivers and canals, through river cities and tiny villages, from London, all the way to Vienna.

First published in 1989, Leontyne: By barge from London to Vienna is full of colourful characters met along the way, the amusing trials and tribulations of a cantankerous boat and the rich culture of the countries Goodwin passes through.