There was a wonderful River Festival on the Great Ouse in Bedford last year all kinds of boats. I was very impressed at the Carnival atmosphere and the size of the Festival! Being from South of The Thames I really didn't think anything happened North of Watford lol

And DG - Edinburgh is not only a lovely City, the people there are also some of the nicest you can meet anywhere. There are some gorgeous properties there (which I doubt I could afford! although I have friends there who can and do! grrr).