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Grand Union Canal , Braunston - painting and repairing click to read more

2026-09-05T18:05:59.965+01:00

Now we start to repair all the damage done to boat this year before we go into dry dock in early October.

If we can get the prep done before going in it saves a lot of time once we are in the dry dock.

This is the hollow engine room door. We managed to get it off yesterday and upend it. All the damaged wood has been dug out and removed and it is being filled with a waterproof mastic. Then sanded back to shape and repainted.

Took a couple of days but its now back on its hinges and ready for undercoat.

Already looking a lot better

The white on the engine room doors also rubbed down and repainted

the tow path is just a dust bowl. Every gust of wind or bike that goes by covers us in dust. So today we are off to around bridge 100 on the South Oxford

First we needed water, so we passed the South Oxford turn and got water next to the Old Midland Chandlers building.

Then we reversed back and turned into the South Oxford

Another boat just ahead of us

The beautiful bridge 95

Now we are at bridge 100, which is in a very poor state, and will moor on the right beyond the boat in the picture.

Lots of Blackberries here.

THEN ...... Tony tells me the bad news - we have a head gasket in trouble. We could continue and see if it gets any worse .....knowing him that is not really a option ! I agree we turn and go into the marina and take the head off and see what we see. We carry replacement gaskets (very hard to get now) and all bits and bobs needed to do the job.

Once done, unless its a major problem, we will come back out and go for a test run.

The Blackberries were used in the fruit salad. Tony likes ice cream with his. When he went up the village yesterday he brought back a new tub of ice cream. He obviously does not look at what he is buying ..... I just laughed when I opened it ... it was bright blue ! It said on the carton "Bubblegum ".

No he does not like it. He expected it to be white ice cream because the tub was white. Glad the only way I like ice cream is in a cornet.

Grand Union Canal to br 100 South Oxford

2026-08-24T19:53:24.192+01:00

Now it is time we start to repair all the damage done to boat this year before we go into dry dock in early October.

If we can get the prep done before going in it saves a lot of time once we are in the dry dock.

Took a couple of days but its now back on its hinges and ready for undercoat.

Already looking a lot better

The white on the engine room doors also rubbed down and repainted

the tow path is just a dust bowl. Every gust of wind or bike that goes by covers us in dust. So today we are off to around bridge 100 on the South Oxford

First we needed water, so we passed the South Oxford turn and got water next to the Old Midland Chandlers building.

Then we reversed back and turned into the South Oxford

Another boat just ahead of us

The beautiful bridge 95

Now we are at bridge 100, which is in a very poor state, and will moor on the right beyond the boat in the picture.

Lots of Blackberries here.

Once done, unless its a major problem, we will come back out and go for a test run.

No he does not like it. He expected it to be white ice cream because the tub was white. Glad the only way I like ice cream is in a cornet.

Grand Union Canal, /South Oxford Canal br 100 back to Braunston

2026-08-21T18:19:15.645+01:00

having found a small spot of oil on the head gasket seal when he wiped the engine down last evening We decided to return to the marina to change the head gasket.

It was much shorter to reverse to the last winding hole than to go on forwards.

It was only 2 bridges. To my surprise he turned left at the Braunston Turn instead of right towards the marina. I asked why and he said he wanted to see how much it was leaking. O.K.

We filled with water, then passed Tebay , Kevin Whittles of the Kelvin register's old boat.

These cows were not sure about the weather. We were unable to find a mooring between Braunston and Hillmorton ! Everybody single space on armco was taken .

Passing what we know as Blue Haven , now called Hillmorton Marina. Full of luxury chalets overlooking the marina. Mmmm would not be my description of them !

We had another good Carvery at The Waterside and suddenly it absolutely threw rain down in a torrent. Only lasted about 10 mins but it was rain.

Stayed there night opposite the pub . On wiping down the engine ..... no Weeping. What is going on ? Pulled a smear of Blacktite sealant across the join between head and cylinder block.

We reversed back to the winding hole.

Some paddle boarders here, note the dog on mans paddle board and they seem to love it.

Lovely cloud formations

Not seen many Swallows this year

Now back at Dunchurch, near the marina. Wipe down engine.... nothing. We are confused.

So it could be back to br 100 tomorrow. Who knows.

Braunston

2026-08-16T21:14:46.950+01:00

Here for a couple of days. Tony has to go home tomorrow.

See work has started on the old Stop House.

It is normally busy at Braunston through the old stop lock but with the lock restrictions boats only seem to be moving from about 10am to 3pm. Then nothing. Its very odd.

Tony has to get the 9.35 bus from Braunston to Daventry. What a performance this turned out to be. ..... buses do not connect . Arrive Daventry and the bus to Northamoton has already departed. Northampton to Higham ditto. So he got the X46 to Rushden lakes and instead of getting a taxi, walked the 4 miles to our house !

Does what he had to do at house, washes and changed shirt and sets off to catch the X47 back to Northamoton due at the end of our road at 16.08. He saw it arrive several minutes early at the Bus Stop when he was about 100yds away. He could not get to it before it moved off and to wait an hour for the next one, which was 15 mins later. So it was inevitable he would miss the last bus to Braunston. His phone goes flat, (never thought to charge it when at home !) Gets a Taxi at Daventry, picks up fish and chips from Braunston Fryer. What a disaster that was. Batter like brown shoe leather, chips dreadful. We threw it all away, £16 of it.

Batter like brown shoe leather , masses of chips

all dried up. Opened a couple of Abbott Reserve to make up for it.

I on the other hand had a lovely day. bread pudding for elevenses, from Avril on Gongoozlers, with a cuppa. Several friends stopped to chat. Lovely to see Jan and Frank from 'Havoc'. They used to moor in Braunston marina and their travel partner on 'Avalon Mist' moored next to us. Surprisingly we traveled with the new owners of 'Avalon Mist' last year on the River Wey. Its a small world. Bob and his dog Milo also stopped for a chat. Several boats going past we knew and a couple of hirers " seen you on the telly" !

Next morning we were off into the marina to dispose of rubbish, yes we are moorers there, then turn the boat and go back towards Braunston turn and meet other boaters at The Boat House for a lunchtime drink.

3 historic boats abreast here

Lovely pot plants outside the marina office.

We managed to moor outside the Boat House - think that is the current name (we have known it by a number of names over the years and forget what the current name is ! )

Takes us back 25 years or so ago when we did this most weekends.

We had a couple of starters as a lunch. Nice but expensive, as were the drinks.

Then we returned to our boat and pushed over to a mooring opposite for the night.

A lovely sunset behind the twin Horsley bridges at the Braunston turn

Same picture taken this morning

I did mention that one of our engine room doors was in trouble so we decided to stay here and attempt to remove it. Lots of soaking the hinges with WD 40.

Yes off it came , eventually !

Now to see the real damage. Turn upside down and

Oh its not good. As much as possible of the old damaged wood has to be dug out and the rust treated before a bit of paint on the treated area then applied a strong adhesive/sealer into the void. A coat of paint when sealer is dry then to paint the white outside surface of the doors where the rust has crept round to the outside.

Tomorrow off to the South Oxford and more work on the boat. Luckily watching paint dry is a slow job so lots of time to relax between applying different colour's !

Much cooler today

North Oxford Canal - Dunchurch to Braunston

2026-08-13T19:44:54.611+01:00

Normally it is an 8hr journey from Hawkesbury to Braunston. We used to do it in a day Time passed, we got older and tended to stop at Rugby or Newbold.

This year we have severe drought and have returned to home waters so as to avoid yet another expensive lift out to get back to Braunston. On the 5th August we left Hawkesbury. We have taken 7 days so far ! ... and we are not there yet !

Cloudless blue skies , again

This bridge is always awkward going towards Braunston as you cannot see through it until the nose of the boat is almost under it. You have to rely on an oncoming boat seeing you and stopping. The line of sight is much better going towards Rugby

Busy.. busy.. busy. Lots of moored boats and a hire boat stuck on mud on off side of canal. We asked if he was OK as we passed by very slowly. We were prepared to pull him off the mud but he assured us he was OK. Now there is a boat jam

Diesel is generally reasonable at Dunchurch Pools so we looked at internet ... 97p . So in we went

A boat was just ready to leave the service pontoon. When we went to get it the price was £1.30 ! No thanks - so we left.

Now moored a bit closer to Braunston. Note - we have a few clouds gathering. Hopefully the heat will drop. 27 degrees today. little white cloud. However 35 and 37 are forecast for the next 2 days.

We stayed here a day and watched the non existent eclipse.

Today we are going to Braunston. The foorecast is now 37 for today 25 degrees at 10am. I am confined to the interior of the boat as I cannot tolerate the heat after my heart op

When we opened the engine room doors we saw the wood had dried out to powder. More work

The left hand door needing attention as well

You always meet a boat in narrows !

Now at Braunston. Not a space in sight.

So we reversed back and are on the 2 day mooring before the water point outside the Stop House.

Chaos here. Boats wanting moorings to go up the locks tomorrow. Boats coming from the Grand Union at Calcutt, from Napton on the South Oxford and also from the North Oxford. They are breasted 3 out by Butchers Bridge.

Its 7.45pm as I write this and its still 35 degrees.

Tony has to go home tomorrow so here for a couple of days.

North Oxford Canal - Rugby to Hillmorton. click to read more

2026-08-10T11:32:38.328+01:00

moving over to Brownsover Park we disposed of rubbish and topped up with water.

Tony took the opportunity to leather the solar panels and the side of the boat off.

Hillmorton locks are on restricted hours, 10am to 3pm with boats able to enter the flight up to 2pm. It is supposed to be a 'one up/one down ' process

Clifton Cruisers cafe busy as usual

We have just come from the 'new' main line on the left of this picture with the old disused Clifton Arm bearing round to the right of the picture.

The old disued arm now used for mooring.

Its not far to the locks. The other day there were reports of 40 boats waiting ! We will see what happens today.

So far so good. We can only see 1 boat waiting.

In they go. One is also waiting to come down. The tow path side paired lock is chained shut.

Our turn and in we go. The lockies said they really enjoyed us on Narrow Escapes - proper boaters they called us. They hope we are going to do more . We will see. If asked - yes , if not asked then its a no.

The old water balancing mechanism, disconnected by BW after commercial carrying ceased now being used for floral displays.

Now what part of ONE UP/ONE DOWN Did the 2 narrowboats after the cruiser not understand ?

Mind you its not really their fault as despite there being several vlockies at lock 2 and 3 (bottom lock) there was no vlockie on locks 6 and 7(top lock). Lock 6 was chained shut but both 4 and 5 were available for use. I cannot understand how CaRT say that they are saving water.

We had a lovely meal at the Green King pub, now called 'The Waterside' but we know it as 'The Royal Oak.'

Not the best of moorings but it had to do. Thankfully the trains stop over night.

3 locks today

214 total

North Oxford Canal - Hillmorton to near Dunchurch

2026-08-08T14:00:42.000+01:00

The Royal Oak, now called The Waterside. Had a lovely Carvery there yesterday. Funnily enough the Credit Card says"The Royal Oak" . You used to be able to moor outside but sadly there seems to be 2 permanent boats outside.

We continued on our way. Only a short trip today.

Fields looking really parched and brown

This bridge in serious need of repairs. Settlement cracks at both ends.

Passing the little motel opposite the winding hole at Hillmorton

The M45 bridge

Enormous

Passing the Barby moorings we saw this old 1930s Austin. Sadly out in the open , obviously undergoing restoration.

That will do us for today.

Armco, instead of sloping concrete slab sides. Nice and quiet here no motorways, roads or trains. Staying here for a couple of days.

No locks.

North Oxford Canal - Brinklow to Rugby click to read more

2026-08-07T20:53:50.786+01:00

leaving the busy mooring at Brinklow

beautiful as we pass through All Oaks Wood as we leave Brinklow

These old cottages used to be a pub, The Boat Inn, now called Rose Cottage.

The interesting boat moored outside.

I think this is Hungerfield Farm

Another old arm, the Brinklow arm

Now Brinklow Marina

Mr and Mrs 8

Yet another arm, Fennis Field arm being used as a marina

We meet a working boat at Falls bridge

This couple at Falls Br Wharf shouted greetings and " we loved you on the telly".

The old Newbold Arm to our right and the new route through the 'new ' tunnel straight on. The old tunnel was built in 1777. In 1834 when the canal was shortened the current tunnel was opened. The entrance to the original tunnel can still be seen near the church.

The canal ran the other side of The Barley Mow pub.

Entering the modern tunnel

There used to be walk ways on both sides and at one time it was illuminated.

Cattle enjoying the very shallow waters here

We are in 'Ridge and Furrow' country. In the Middle Ages people farmed strips of land . Using Oxen and single long ploughs they dug large furrows and made ridges. On the ridges they planted their grain, wheat, oats and barley. The furrows drained the ridges so the seeds and crops did not rot.

This arm used to house Willow Wren at Rugby Wharf.

Crossing 2 small aqueducts over a river and a road

The second of which the bridge is in a bad way with most of the metal tubular bars rusted through.

You used to be able to moor all along here. But with the large shopping centre having been built below it is now prohibited.

Just a single space here and we took it !

Now its off to Tesco.

North Oxford Canal - Hawkesbury junction to Brinklow .click to read more

2026-08-06T15:24:38.035+01:00

Nice to be moving again after sitting at Hawkesbury waiting for family to arrive.

We filled with water

Tony had a wonderful day yesterday with his daughter and her American family. We filled with water before setting off towards Brinklow.

This used to be a maze of pylons 30/40 years ago
There also used to be a coal mine here as well. We remember the slag heaps.

This Lamp post used to light the road to the mine.

There is the road and still lots of slag under the topsoil

At bridge 4, Tusses bridge. Is an amazing collection of old cars and vans dying in undergrowth

A beautiful park here with seats overlooking the canal

The railway follows the canal for quite a way. On the otherside is the very noisy M6.

When the canal was built it meandered through every possible village to deliver goods and collect trade. With the coming

of the railways, which inevitably took the canal trade away, the Oxford Canal company shortened the canal by cutting our a good number of loops. Cutting 14 miles off the journey to Braunston and a good number of hours. Old arms now used as marinas or indeed go nowhere at all now a days.

A landslide here near Brinklow shut the canal a few years ago. Now all repaired

Just 1 space at Brinklow, which we took.

No locks today

Coventry Basin and Return to Hawkesbury junction click to see more

2026-08-04T16:50:21.442+01:00

We had a lovely 2 days here. Its very quiet. Very secure and right in the centre of Coventry. Video survellience and lit at night.

old trans shipment buildings to the opposite side of the arm we are moored in.

shops and cafe's and a ladies hairdressers and a very interesting Lativan Grocery shop, bought some interesting cheeses there, and a Portugese shop with a cafe, are on this side of the arm

A second arm is also available to moor in on the left of this central area

A well kept pretty garden to relax in

The Latvian food shop, with yellow windows

The very popular Playwrights cafe by the bridge and gardens. Good breakfast and lunches here. They are also going 'Afternoon teas'. Scones, jam cream, sandwiches and little delicious cakes at £20 for 2 people. Very reasonable prices and excellent value.

Tonys Breakfast Stack.. egg, bacon, sausage and hash brown . He wonders why he is putting on weight ! It was very large.

Two ladies came walking down the jetty " no camera crew today ?" Narrow Escape followers ! We ended up all having lunch together. Lovely picture of the 4 of us before they left.

Then it was time to leave. We were both a bit concerned how we would fare at bridge 4. We decided to fill with water to keep the nose of the boat as heavy as possible and also got rid of a fair amount of our toilet waste at the sanitary station just prior to the bridge 1

Then it was under the bridge towards get water.

Tony took the opportunity to clear the prop.

Yes a fair harvest. We always bag our rubbish off the prop and dispose of as soon as possible. Many boaters leave if on the bankside wherein gets thrown in again.

This was an old generating station, known originally as the Electric Light Works (or the Electric Wharf power station). Opened in 1895 off Sandy Lane along the Coventry Canal, it supplied power to early local industries before eventually closing and being redeveloped in 2004 into modern loft apartments and creative workspaces

Note the iron framework incorporated into this building is the same as the iron work in previous picture

I have no idea why there is a lone E on this building.

Another bit of history

Coventry Weavers 1700-1860

The ribbon weavers of old Coventry are remembered by a mural by the Coventry Canal, not far from Cash's 'Hundred Houses', the largest surviving monument to their lives and craft. A phoenix, symbol of the rebirth of the city after the destruction of the Second World War, rises from a web of rainbow colours, suggesting that creativity will rise again. The work is signed 'Brink Lord Numb Mig 29'. Brink is a Leamington-based street art organisation, curated by 'Lord Numb'. More of their work appeared by the canal in summer in 2023, on the Old Church Road bridge in Foleshill.

What a good girl - she did not go sightseeing into the trees on the way back going over the muddy shallows !

bridge 4 in view... will we get through or will we get stuck ? I go down to the front to stand on the nose. Every extra lb of weight (me!) off the rear of the boat and added to the front helps. You can see why it silts up so badly its such a sharp turn into it. We increased our speed on approach and lifted off as we entered the bridge hole to coast over the shallows. We got as far as the exit of the bridge then stuck, not badly, and she came off quickly.

Well we made it, with me doing my 'Titanic' impression on the nose of the boat and Tony on and off with the revs causing the boat to lift and fall and surge !

Lots and lots of good moorings on the Coventry Basin Arm.

Excitement .... a moving boat. Again "I've seen you on telly". We told him the basin was excellent. He was so pleased as he had been warned off.

About 1/2 a mile after bridge 8, where the massive Tesco is and there are no mooring rings.... guess what ?

nearly a mile of new mooring rings all the way to bridge 9. Yes moorings for the Arena Shopping Centre. No boats here though.

Rings all the way but a long way to walk back to Tesco from here.

Nice flats here

Well this is different. I did ask could take a picture. Its a concrete settee. Again " I've seen you on TV " he remarked.

The old entrance to the North Oxford Canal. Filled in and moved to Hawkesbury in 1803. Opened in April 1777, the Longford Junction with the Coventry canal and North Oxford canal suffered from a 7-inch height difference. Because the Oxford Canal sat higher than the Coventry Canal, every use of the lock drained water away from the Oxford line into the Coventry line. The two rival companies could not cooperate, leading the two separate canals to run side-by-side and parallel for about a mile between Hawkesbury and Longford. This wasted time for boatmen and money for carriers. The companies bickered constantly over revenue and toll rights, prompting a functional shift northward

Now we turn back into the basin

And moor up exactly where we were a few days ago. A much better return journey taking only 3 hours.

No locks

Coventry Canal Hawkesbury to Coventry Basin click to see more

2026-08-02T12:17:30.274+01:00

it is very overcast today. We are having to reverse through the stop lock and try a 'round in 1' in reverse ! Going to be interesting. 11.15 am and 5 miles to Coventry Basin.

Oh no, a boat is waiting on the left, on the lock moorings, ....now another one enters the basin. There is a small boat camped on the right claiming they have broken down. Chaos !

Luckily the hire boat waved the second boat to go through the lock before them, leaving us space to turn

Yes old 'clever clogs' managed it. Before 1800 the canal used to go straight past the Greyhound pub to the right to Longford. This entrance to the North Oxford was built in 1803

Bye Greyhound see you again on Monday.

First fisherman of the day, right by a 'no fishing sign' in yellow on the post behind him below the power lines. Typical.

The canal is quite pretty here.

Passing the Longford Engine ph

this was the old junction of the North Oxford and Coventry canal. The North Oxford ran alongside the Coventry Canal to here at Longford. In 1803 this was replaced by the present junction at Hawkesbury.

why was the junction of North Oxford canal and coventry canal changed from

The original canal junction was moved from Longford to Hawkesbury Junction in 1803 because of a surveying error, water loss and corporate disputes over tolls.

Opened in April 1777, the Longford Junction suffered from a 7-inch height difference. Because the Oxford Canal sat higher than the Coventry Canal, every use of the lock drained water away from the Oxford line into the Coventry line.

The two rival companies could not cooperate, leaving the two separate canals to run side-by-side and parallel for about a mile between Hawkesbury and Longford. This wasted time for boatmen and money for carriers.

The companies bickered constantly over revenue and toll rights, prompting a functional shift northward.

A lady feeding Mr and Mrs and their 7 cygnets

The levels are still well down

At bridge 8, I nip up to Tesco's, the northern end of the massive Arena Shopping complex, for a couple of items. Tony had to stay with boat as there were no rings and a tarmac tow path.

Bridge 5a Heath Crescent bridge built in 1956. has lighting for pedestrians

Approaching the old Swan Line Cruisers basin just prior to br 4

Boats in the basin now

Br 4 on a blind bend, bridges often are .

Yes we had to reverse and have a second try as the boat came to a stand still . No amount of coaxing would move it

So attempt 2. Same result

Attempt 3 was made after reversing back quite a way and clearing the propeller below the weed hatch

Well we still struggled but did make it . This bridge took us 45 minutes to achieve this.

It seems every entrance on to the canal has one of these or a blue waste sack. We were impressed as the canal corridor is very litter free.

Bridge 3 and some interesting art work

No proper bin but blue bags here. It seems to work. The towpath is immaculate

Not too sure about the colour but at least it tells you where you are !

CaRT here teaching people how to fish !

A vlogger filming us as we head for the basin

City centre

Typical, cannot even trim the bushes from covering their signs.

A beautiful display as you enter the basin

It is smaller than I remembered. We were last here in 2004, 22 years ago

Information posts

Now tied up.

It's very quiet which is a good sign.

No need to go to Alton Towers . This was a 'rock and roll' ride most of the way, the boat also had a mind of its own on most bends - off to inspect hedges and old wharfs !

A real relief when we got here. A 5 mile journey we expected to take a couple of hours turned into a 4 and1/2 hr marathon

Now for a nice drink and a meal.

Staying here for a couple of days.

1 lock today

211 total

Coventry Canal - Charity Dock to Sutton Stop click for more

2026-07-31T21:58:31.896+01:00

Moving off this morning the weather knew exactly what it was doing .. Hot. Hot and Hotter 30 degrees today.

Charity Dock cannot be explained

It has to be seen to be believed

The Stig is there to greet you, as well as many other dressed dummies. I have no idea why.

An old working boat waiting to be saved perhaps one day !

Water levels are very low and we have to keep away from the edge of the canal

Br 13 and we often get stuck here. Even when water levels are good.

Today was no exception we got well and truly aground as we started to exit the bridge hole.

I was able to take this picture of the old arm that went to the Newdigate Colliery.

I was dispatched to stand on the nose and sure enough it did the trick after a lot of wriggling and reversing , even managed a foot on the bridge wall to push off.

Water should be level with this spill weir !

Now its Water filling time. The old engine house at Hawkesbury junction on our right,

this originally housed a historic Newcomen steam engine (later named the "Earl of Mercia" or "Lady Godiva") moved from Griff Colliery.

This engine actively pumped water from deep underground mine workings directly into the canal up until 1913, serving as a dual solution that cleared out unwanted mine water while keeping the canal supplied. Once these engines were taken out of service the waterways started to struggle in hot weather. The canal builders obviously had a lot more sense than the people who decided to stop using them. There are engine houses, all minus engines , all over the system that used to pump water to maintain levels. Now the powers that be wonder why we are short of water!

Filled with water, after moving to the 2nd water outlet as the 1st one had a totally non standard outlet union, and off to the junction

A nasty piece of Armco on the water point

Passing through the narrows, an old lock and about to turn into the basin

This gentleman recognized Tony from 'Narrow Escapes' TV series and wanted to shake his hand ! He actually said we ,( at our age) had inspired him to buy a boat. He, at 60, thought he was too old. He came on board after we moored up and had a long chat with us.

People watching from the bridge.
We find a mooring and then walk back to the pub to deliver our order for next Tuesday

The pub is very busy.

We decide to eat whilst there, and why not??

A view from inside of the pub to the beautiful Horsley bridge

1 lock today.

Coventry Canal - to near Charity Dock click to see more

2026-07-30T10:59:23.677+01:00

We moved on towards Nuneaton for some shopping.

This single old telegraph pole always amuses me. Why did they leave just one ?

The weather seemed unable to make its mind up and its quite a cold start.

Passing old cottages, with modern extensions and all the non towpath moorings opposite are now derelict.

And as we approach Nuneaton some nice gardens

After a quick shopping stop we set off and immediately went aground , as we were stuck on the bottom ! Eventually we got away after a struggle.

Playing fields on the edge of canal here but very dried up.

Plastic Heron - very lifelike I must say

Oooh and a 'Cuckoo Tree'. Cuckoos tend to use dead trees so they get a clear view when looking where to lay their eggs. ( a bit of useless information that stuck in my mind from visiting Wicken Fen)

about to pass Boot Wharf

always busy here

Now its a bit of a haul through shallow waters to Sutton Stop

Lots of Allotments hereabouts but many have now gone.

And a Monkey Puzzle Tree

We decide to call it a day not too far from Charity Dock.

You might be wondering why we are taking so long to get any where Tony's eldest daughter, her 3 children and their families and children are coming from the USA to the UK on 1st August. Many not ever been to UK before. 11 of them. As his other daughter lives in Hertfordshire they are renting a house in nearby Hertford.

So we altered our cruising plans ,we were going to Lymm ,but have returned South and arranged to meet them all at The Greyhound at Sutton Stop on the 4th August.

Then the heatwaves started causing lock shortages so we hurried up a bit to get up Atherstone before it shut.

Now we are a few days early so dawdling and going to Coventry Basin before returning to The Greyhound.

Being given a party of 17 we obviously had to book and paid £5 a head deposit. They also wanted the main meal ordered up front.

So menu's sent over to USA, choices made, and tomorrow we are on

our way to Coventry Basin so we will drop them into the pub today and a meal and a pint is beckoning.

Coventry Canal - somewhere before Nuneaton. click for more

2026-07-28T11:13:26.147+01:00

Lovely quiet spot in the middle of nowhere - well it feels like that. I think we are very close to Nuneaton.

Tony preparing the front deck for painting

The hand rails being done as well - he is a busy bee. It's a lot cooler today. So temperatures good for painting in the mid to late morning time.

Almost there - well on this side ! The other side will get done once we turn on to the North Oxford and the tow path is on the right hand side of the boat.

Front deck looking much better already

Think he has earned this.
Stayed here for the weekend. Got a lot of work done.

Coventry Canal Mancetter to Nuneaton click for more

2026-07-25T16:15:58.844+01:00

After a couple of days here we say 'good bye' to friends who wave us off and set off towards Nuneaton.

We are being warned by passing boats that water levels are low !

The spill weirs confirm this

Passing the Rothen Group yard

The boat that just passed us, on right of pic. ' hey - you're on the telly ' we laugh and say "yes " 'we loved you' " "thank you"

The marina near Rothen's yard

Hartshill yard. This used to be a showpiece of BW. How sad and unloved it looks now. CaRT should be ashamed of themselves for letting it get in this state.

They cannot even be bothered to keep the weeds at bay

I remember it when it was immaculate in Black and White, grass banks well kept etc etc. Mind you that was probably best part of 50 years ago !

lots of boats moored here on the right. Another passing boat recognized Tony from 'Narrow Escapes'. So many boaters comment, I think they can relate to us having their own boats and often of an older age group.

So sad to see this. Been here a while as its been totally stripped

More spill weirs, dry as a bone

Just after Springwood Haven we decide to stop for the weekend.

Not sure we will get the back in

But the front is fine

Mary H comes alongside. 'Hi long time since we last saw you' . Exchange all our news then time to wave 'goodbye'

No locks today

Coventry Canal - Mancetter

2026-07-24T14:26:08.183+01:00

We stayed here a few days to get some paintwork repaired now we have only 4 more locks before we get back to base.

this is one of our favourite moorings on the Coventry Canal

Tony starting to repair the damage caused by squeezing past a lock gate that would not fully open

the moon was dominant tonight

the next day it was rub down, clean and prepare for top coat

an amazing sunset tonight , reflected in the side of the boat.

Tomorrow we might move towards Nuneaton.

Coventry Canal - Atherstone to Mancetter

2026-07-22T13:39:20.573+01:00

Well after rushing to get here we can now relax.

Relax ? Brass needs cleaning, temperatures have dropped some and its nice English weather now. The chimney needs repainting and the Buckby Can needs a bit of a touch up on its base. Lots of other scars we have got along the way also need some attention.

Preparing the chimmney takes a while, rubbing down and masking up the brass rings.

Tony started with the chimney as the paint needs to dry

then it was the turn of the brass mushrooms - looking better

I was on Buckby Can touching up, chips on the base of the Buckby Can needing attention

Then a couple of vlockies walked down to tell us the top lock was shut !

Panic - was told yesterday Atherstone was OK for water at the moment. This is not a water shortage stoppage but to do with the old hat factory at the top of the flight. They were putting a dam in to stop rubbish collecting in the canal.

Very very quiet with no boats moving.

Let's hope its open tomorrow.

Then suddenly one comes down.

Lock open again.

So this morning it was off up the remaining 5 locks to Br 35 near Mancetter.

It's quite overcast, but still warm

After passing under the new A5 (T) road bridge we head for the bottom lock of the Atherstone 5 lock flight next to the old A5. This is Watling Street, a Roman Road.

The old A5 bridge

Rising in the lock and we are told a boat is coming down.

A Sunflower in the old Lock House garden attempting to be taller than the Heritage Lamp post on the old Watling Street A5

It was Jules Fuels coming down the flight , single handed by a competent young lady.

Miniature fence here ...Wonder why

Soon we reach top lock and its all ready for me.

The background here vastly different to previous years.

Thanks lads. Help much appreciated. Their blackboard score chalk marked one boat down and 2 up with yesterday showing 10 and 5.

The sign says "Caution Coast past the dam" O.K. Having just exited top lock, and now passing under a bridge we are only on about 1mph anyway.

Ah... if we put it in neutral and coast we will not get to the end , we need some power for steering. So slowly as possible then

Well we made .

This is what used to be there

The historic Wilson and Stafford Hat Factory (Britannia Mill) in Atherstone, Warwickshire, was a cornerstone of the British felt hatting industry, famous for producing Tommy Cooper’s fez.

A nursery taking the little ones for a walk by the canal, nice to see them all on reins for safety.

Ah we know that boat... we were both on Narrow Escapes Series 3

Hi ... we pass the time of day and carry on our way.

Here we are just before br 35. One of our favourite spots at Mancetter. Always shallow down the centre but today we were pulling the bottom and leaning badly as we approached our mooring. Now successfully moored on a slight curve with the back out about 5 foot. Added a ' spring ' a triangulation third rope to hold the boat steady against passing boats.

5 locks today

209 total

Coventry Canal Alvecote to Atherstone ... click to see more

2026-07-20T13:30:35.226+01:00

Away early, just after 7am, and hoping to get up Atherstone before CaRT suddenly decide to close the lock flight there.

Old bridges

You can still see the slag from the coal mining.

Entrance to the old coal mine wharf at Pooley, Tamworth. Sunk in 1847 and closed in 1965, it merged with nearby collieries to form the North Warwick Colliery. Today, the former site is Pooley Country Park and features the Pooley Fields Heritage Centre.

The brightly painted pithead wheel

Passing the dry docks and old boat yard after Grendon

This is a an old working boat awaiting restoration. They might, or might not, get round to it one day !

We came to an unexpected halt at the bridge just before the service station. It took us half an hour and a good number of attempts to pass through the bridge hole as the water was so shallow. Does not bode well for Atherstone flight.

The services are right in front of us but we cannot get there

The offending bridge. Eventually we reversed quite a way, put a bit more speed on and put in neutral just as we got to the bridge. Luckily we coasted over whatever was stopping us previously.

We refilled with water and disposed of rubbish and emptied out some of the toilet waste then it was off to the flight

Here we go lock 11, bottom lock Atherstone.

Big bollard, little bollard. So small at top right hand of pic

Every lock on the flight had water saving side ponds. British Waterways, in their wisdom, decided that we, the new leisure boaters , would not know how to use them. They disconnected them all. How wrong they were.

Tony locking

We usually moor here, but not today.

At lock 9 a boat was waiting. There was no water in the pound above him and he was waiting for some help with lowering water levels ahead Tony soon helped sort the problem out.

The gates are leaking so badly

another boat comes down and then it is my turn

Series 2 of 'Narrow Escapes' is on this week and several people commented on our appearance on the programme. For some reason they seem to like us !

That's how low the pound is

A side pound still with the stand where the paddle should be.

wooden lock wall protectors being used here,

We meet a vlockie at lock 7

Passing the old Barry Hawkins yard now Baddersley Boats

The beautiful old lock at Kings Head Bridge

In we go

The old steps up to the lock side between the bridge and lock

Yes we are old enough to remember this one working. Now chained up

Love it or hate it ? I am sure it is superb inside but from outside I find it very , very ugly.

So we are moored just before Watling Street Bridge and lock 5. We will be here tomorrow as the vlockie assured us water levels are still 'reasonable'

6 locks today

204 total

Coventry Canal - Hopwas to Alvercote - click to see more

2026-07-19T15:02:40.066+01:00

Saying goodbye to Hopwas we started to make our way towards Atherstone

Tony has his daughter coming over from America with her 3 children, their husbands and children, 12 in all and we hope to meet up at Hawkesbury junction the first week in August. Water levels are dropping and we are anxious that we can get to Atherstone top before the flight is shut.

Beautiful blue Hydrangea here

a boat we have seen many times over the years.

An amazing collection of ornaments on the roof

No I have not gone mad, well not yet anyway, we passed a new boat. The side looked like black glass. This was our image as we passed. Just caught my imagination !

Lots of wild flowers on this stretch

New housing estate sprung up since we were here last

A day boat that totally panicked when it saw us. We slowed down and let him sort himself out.

It's only just 9.45am but this boat is ready for today's sun

Still on the lovely named bridges

Fishermen near Fazeley junction

The old BW offices- we have moored outside there a few times

It's empty, deserted... no boats. Very strange. Normally if you want water here you have to queue.

Br 77 and we are back to numbers

As we enter br 77 the Birmingham and Fazely canal goes off to our right

Passing over the River Tame

This all used to be coal mining country. The tow paths were black and there were no trees.

Now passing the boat club just before Glascote locks

It's quite a large complex

The bottom lock was empty

It did not seem to want to level. It's always slow and generally needs both ground paddles open but the tow path side ground paddle was out of action. This did not help. At one point it stopped filling. So Tony went and checked the paddles on the bottom gates. Both paddles were up were up 2 notches !

Eventually we escaped. Another boat was waiting to enter the lock and quite a queue waiting.

At bridge 73 there is a good Co-oP. I went with my trusty trolley to get the shopping. Got there and found my phone flat ..... I keep my shopping list in Notes, so it had to be done from memory ! I did forget a few items and Tony popped back to get them while I put what I had bought away in fridge, freezer and various cupboards.

A lovely 'candle tree' in the hedge here

That's how close the Co-oP is !

The beauty of Weeping Willows become a navigational hazard here

The boats have trimmed an archway through the tendrils.

more Hyderanga here - pink ones this time.

Now this cottage has history. The plaque to the right explains it and I forgot to photograph it !. Ok found it. Marshwiggle Cottage. A lady called Charlotte Bill was a regular visitor to this cottage. She was the Royal Nurse Maid to Princess Mary and Prince John.

being a Saturday there are lots of dog walkers about

I got excited..... thought these were Damsons. Oh no they were not they were sloes.

The old slag heaps beginning to get covered with grass and shrubs

Narrow Craft at Alvecote

The marina opposite

And the 'Samual Barlow' their club House.

We are moored opposite. No we will not be visiting,

2 locks today.

198 total

Coventry Canal. Huddlesford Junction to Hopwas - click to see more

2026-07-18T13:31:14.611+01:00

Yesterday was boat cleaning, exterior and interior. Getting rid of the white dust that CaRT had decided was a good idea to cover the footpath with from Rugeley to Fradley Junction.

Not only was the dust all over the outside of the boat it was inside as well

I hate housework, but had to be done

after a shampoo and wash - it looks so much better

this what it looked like as we left Rugeley

This morning was cool again but threatening 27 degrees so we left just after 8am

Lots of boats now moving early

Between the old canal bridge and the railway bridge the Plough has extended its garden on to the tow path.

A very busy pub.

After the railway bridge is the entrance to the Wyrley and Essington canal. Opened in 1792 to join Birmiinham with Cannock Chase coalfield. It was extended tended to Huddlesford in 1797. Currently used by Litchfield and Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust Society . Restoration of the Litchfield and Hatherton has been going on for many, many years and it might, only might, get restored one day. The canal is currently used for mooring.

The old lock keepers cottages at the canal junction also now their club house

A boat passing us on its way towards Fradley junction

Roads generally use a similar route to canals and were often trans shipment points for picking up cargo from farmersThe bridges now have lovely names. The Coventry Canal company ran short of money and the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal company Stepped in and finished the line to from Fazeley junction to Huddlesford Junction. Because they built this part of the canal they named the bridges in their own style. Names not numbers

It's quite warm but overcast .

Mrs duck and brood having 40 winks

As we approach Hopwas there is a large military firing range. There are large No Entry signs. 40 or so years ago you often saw military running around in the woods and heard rifles being fired. All this seems to have stopped now.

The signs are still there

It's very pretty here

Now we approach Hopwas bridge, hidden to the right

You still do not have a clear view....

Luckily it was all clear

Here we are in Hopwas.There are 2 pubs here. The Wharf was a major trans shipment place for wood, coal and local produce.

Tame Otter this side, Red Lion the other side of the canal. We prefer the Red Lion.

time for a walk over the bridge for lunch in The Red Lion, it would be rude not to. It was a shame that the Timothy White's excellent Landlord's Bitter was not ready to be served as a new barrel was waiting to settle so had to make do with a pint of Tribune Bitter to accompany lunch.

Note the large rings on the old wharf

The Tame Otter from the roadway

A beautiful Weeping Willow as we cross the canal bridge.

There we are on the other side of the canal

I did actually walk to the edge of the canal fence to take this.

No locks today

Trent & Mersey Canal to Fradley & Coventry Canal to Huddlesford Junction. Click to read more

2026-07-16T11:21:46.239+01:00

No need to go early as we are only going to Huddlesford Junction about 5 miles or so and 3 locks

This cruiser passed us as we were getting ready to leave. Note gates open and he is now thinking about moving.!

Another one coming up after he exited the lock

We were next. This lovely cottage, with no road access, a victim of HS2

Another boat following us down

Shadehouse lock is all ready and open for us

Thank you

The old metal brackets protecting the brickwork from the gravel in the ropes used when pulling the boats by horses

This vlockie was very pleased to see us and took lots of pictures of Tony, myself and the boat having seen us on Narrow Escapes , Channel 4 TV.

The 'Mucky Duck' or its proper name 'The White Swan' at Fradley Junction. Tony walks from the last lock, crosses the canal at the next lock and will meet me at the entrance to the Coventry Canal where there is a swing foot bridge.

I signal to the vlockie that I am turning right. (Hope I make it in 1 with him watching me)

He stops me in the swing bridge. So pleased to have us here. Love 'Narrow Escapes' lots of pics and questions. Going to post it on their Fradley page. Note - must try and find that. Yes I made a perfect turn - more luck than anything !

We continue on our way after waving "good bye - see you another year"

A tree recently been down here

Next arm of the tree will not be long following it.

Another boat coming towards us, it has been so busy today after seeing so few boats this year.

"HI Margaret. Nice to see you, we follow you." Its Sheila and Peter on Nb Highgrove. We exchange greetings. Lovely to meet our fellow boaters.

Big houses here but an oddity....

This roof covered with pigeons. I wonder why ? One of the other roofs had a lot as well.

Boats flying flags for the football world cup

And a squirrel eating a nut , totally oblivious to us. Nature blends in so well with the countryside. Look how his head blends into the grass

Now the A38 runs alongside the canal Its exceedingly noisy .

The Streethay long term moorings with car transporters thundering past - not for us and the decking in a very dangerous state.

Streethay Wharf and we are stopping to hopefully buy some paint.

Yes mission accomplished. Now to move on to Huddlesford

Passing Orchard Marina,

We moored up and are off to The Plough for a pint and a light lunch

A nice pint of Timothy Taylor's Landlord goes down well.

It is nice to see how busy it is.

a nice sunset to finish the day. Staying here tomorrow. Boat washing and a bit of brass cleaning.

3 locks today

196 total

Trent & Mersey Canal - Rugeley to Woodend Lock click to see more

2026-07-15T14:51:04.359+01:00

Setting off just after 9am this morning as the forecast was only for temps of 27 by 4pm and we will be at our destination by about midday

Rugeley strangely devoid of boats behind us and even stranger for England , cloudless blue skies, but a wonderful 18 degrees

Or indeed in front of us

For some reason, cost I expect , the tow paths are covered in a grey dust. Now we have a boat covered in it !

Well - no words for this , trees growing out the sides of the boat

The old Armitage Tunnel, which had its roof removed in 1971 due to mining subsidence from Lea Hall Colliery. Lea Hall colliery was opened in 1954 and closed in 1990.

This is the the A513 crossing the canal.

Oh look who is here ... Putnal Fields - known them a good few years . Nice to see them as they also have a Gardner engine in this historic boat.

Passing 'The Plum Pudding' all ready for another busy day

Now the tight , blind turn past the 'sanitary ware' factory - Armitage Shanks as was.

Another tree down but still passable.

The size of the 'sanitary ware' factory is enormous. This is just block 2. All the buildings is you can see are block 2. Block 1 is right by the canal and block 3 is hidden behind trees to our right. On the right is some armco. There is also a footpath between the factory buildings to Armitage itself. Post office and a Co oP.

Harvesting going on all around us now

A nicely painted statue of a parrot in a garden caught my eye

Now its negotiate the Weeping Willow trees

See where the boats have worn away the growth !

Excitement - a moving boat coming towards us.

Now this Crow really posed for me

"Which is my best angle ? " he seemed to be saying

Kings Bromley Marina

And their old working boat yard

Oh " Puffing Billy" .... comes through the yard. I think it would fail it's emission tests deffo!!!

Masses of small white butterflies all over this Purple Loosestrife. It's all along this stretch of canal.

Now arrived at Woodend Lock . Those are the lock moorings. Amazing there are 2 boats waiting to go down. We were going to wash the boat off this evening but the same grayish towpath covering is being used here. Every time there is a breeze it blows all over the boat. We are turning at Fradley Junction into the Coventry Canal tomorrow so will wait another day.

No locks today

Staffs and Worcester Canal- Tixall to Trent and Mersey then to Rugeley. click to see more

2026-07-14T08:52:22.165+01:00

A beautiful couple of days in Tixall. Lots of house keeping done, bed changed and washing done. Those who know me well will know it is NOT "one of my favourite things"

Not that many boats passing but those that know us giving a "hoot' and wave as they pass by.

Today its off to Gt. Haywood and refill with water. Then on to Rugeley.

One comes past just after 6.30am as we get ready to move off. Gosh its really cold , only 12 degrees. Pullovers and warm coats on. Feels like mid winter

A historic boat comes towards us probably on its way to Gnosall for their festival

So lovely

The actual 'wide'.

The Gate House overlooking Tixall Wide. It is available to rent for week/weekends or longer periods.

Tixall Gatehouse was built in about 1580 by Sir Walter Aston to stand in front of an older house. It is a delightful example of the Elizabethans’ uninhibited assimilation of Classical elements into the English style before Palladianism took hold. The main house and a successor, built in 1780, have now disappeared but the gatehouse still survives and is surrounded by grass. It was described in 1598 as ‘one of the fairest pieces of work made of late times in all these counties’ and, more recently, as ‘an Elizabethan ruin, without roof, floors or windows, used as a shelter for cattle’.

It has been fully restored, it sleeps 8 in 4 bedrooms, all ensuite and has all mod cons. To be on the roof terrace, its weather vanes re-coated with gold leaf in 2012, is a majestic experience.
Full information from

thelandmarktrust.org.uk

Bull Rushes now starting to appear.

Quite a recreation centre here and camping and caravan park alongside the canal

Aqueduct passing over the River Trent

We reach Gt Haywood Junction with the Trent and Mersey canal. We are turning right but firstly need to fill with water which is to the left. So turn and carefully reverse back to the water point.

A massive flock of Canada Geese in the field opposite the junction.

We swing the nose round to the left
Then reverse on to the water point here. Note the lovely finger post . The old boatmen often could not read or write so it seems a bit out of character. Just checked on this they were added to the system in the 1990s by British Waterways to assist the new leisure boats on the system.

Reversing to water point

Here we put the dishwasher on whilst filling with water.

Once full we move on to Gt Haywood lock

Our friend Simon, who we passed in Penkridge the other day comes up to help. He is bound for Keadby with his superb narrow beam dutch barge.

We used to have a wonderful Gunnera when we lived at Hawkins Hall. We did take a root with us when we retired to Northamptonshire but unfortunately it died one year when we were away on the boat as they need large quantities of water to survive hence doing so well canalside with unlimited water on tap!!!

Beautiful old cottages

The lock house at Colwich having work done on the property. We used to come across herds of cattle being led across the accommodation bridge into the adjacent field leaving a very muddy area to cross to rejoin the boat below the lock. We always call this 'Cow lock' for that reason.

The lock beam is in a terrible state here

Cows in the water as I exit the lock

At bridge 70, Wolsley Bridge a 20 ton mature Oak tree fell on to 'Nb Marcellus' causing terrible damage.

Thank goodness there were no injuries to the owner or family.

A timely reminder to us all about mooring close to trees. Hot weather and then high winds.....be careful

The tree has been removed and the boat taken to a nearby boat yard. We have just passed it.

We continue on our way. Passing back over the River Trent

And the sharp left hand turn to Rugeley

A tree right across the tow path here. Totally closing off the towpath approach to Tesco from this side. So we pass under the bridge and hey presto vacant moorings.

Now to moor and its quite empty which is so unusual.

Empty in front as well.

It's only 11am and the temperature is rising. Coats off its 18 degrees. Going to be 26 today so I had better get up to Tescos before it gets too hot.

2 locks today

193 total

Middle Levels

2026-07-12T18:55:20.845+01:00

The Middle Levels are the system that drain the fens. Some are navigable and you can get across to the River Great Ouse The Middle Levels are nothing to do with CaRT or the EA and are maintained and run by the Middle Level Commissioners. There are no fess or licences to use the Middle Levels.

Due to this being fenland the banks are quite high and there is not a great deal to see.

Leaving our secluded mooring, up a backwater, at Thorpe Meadow near Peterborough we headed for Peterborough itself.

The main bridge is still called ;Town Bridge, although Peterborough is a city. Near to Town Bridge is an Asda and you can moor on the railings. We had a taxi from Thorpe Meadow to a Waitrose.

The Cathedral was in glorious sunshine on this Easter Monday.

The floods had put this narrowboat well and truly up on the bank

A number of old grain barges have been converted to floating restaurants and this one looks like it had a good Easter, judging from the number of empty barrels on its front !

Pump out time, and we all really needed it since the last time was when we left Braunston at the end of March ! The pump out here is FREE. We got rid of rubbish and filled with water here as well.

You have to book to enter and leave the Middle Levels and we were all booked, 1 boat at a time, from 12.14 to 12.45. It takes about 15 mins to empty and refill the lock.

As you turn to enter the Stanground Lock channel the River Nene continues on to Dog in a Doublet Lock and eventually out to the Wash ( which we crossed in 2004)

Brickworks used to dominate the scene here but now they are all gone and the pits filled with water. Some chimneys remain. Soon we approach Whittlesey and the famous 90 degree right hand bend.
We met a 'plastic just as we entered the narrow channel !!! No time to take a picture. We had to reverse out and let him through before having a second attempt. No problems - round in 1

We were fortunate to find sufficient space on the moorings here. We had arranged with some friends from Somerset, who were visiting Ely over Easter fro them to come and have tea with us. A lovely time was had by all.

The moorings at Whittlesea are adjacent to a sports centre and are superb. There is only room for 2 narrowboats so Daph came alongside us, the boat that was already here was only using the back of his boat to get on and off so he moved up so that Tony and Jenny could get their front on to the moorings.

Cats and dogs love it here.

1 lock today
67 in total

Staffs and Worscester canal Penkridge to Tixall click to read more

2026-07-12T17:13:55.910+01:00

After an early night and with no cooling fan in the bedroom, - it had ceased to work sometime during the previous night, it was yet another early morning. Up at 5am away by 6am. Margaret cannot take the heat of the sun and its really beautiful to travel at this time of day, so fresh and invigorating. The only disadvantage has been travelling directly towards the low and very bright sun.

Disposing of our rubbish at Penkridge lock services including the defunct fan.

Then it was into the lock and away. Tony waiting to close up the gates after me.

Under the main road

Looking back at lock and horse tunnel

It's going to be really hot today. Might not make Tixall but will travel until about 11am and then moor wherever we are.

Beautiful narrow beam dutch barge. We traveled with the owner of this boat many years ago and possibly an earlier version of the boat.

Still , peaceful waters and amazing clear blue skies.

Passing under the M6 motorway and very noisy it is too.

This beautiful house is right next to the M6 the noise is dreadful.

Approaching Park Lane Lock , used to be Midland Chandlers main outlet before they went to 'on line only' sales

Meeting other boaters now - well it is after 7am !

This lady recognised Tony " oh we love you 2 on Narrow Escapes" like the Shroppie its seems most boaters and many walkers watch the programme and are quite fascinated by us "at our age"! As our age is no secret I also get asked how I get on the roof. Demonstrated it so often to many people. I think the letter that was published in TV Choice magazine has made a lot of people curious about us.

A road runs alongside the canal here. Quite disconcerting when its early evening and headlights come towards you at 40+ miles per hour .

A working boat passes by near Shutt Hill lock

Stafford Boat Club with their beautiful marina.

Looks like a tree down ...

Yes , as usual a Willow Tree.

Just enough room to get through

More boats, the canal has suddenly got very busy - most tend to mention Narrow Escapes.

There used to be a short canal link using the River Sow to get to Stafford here.

Now they are trying to restore it.

It's been a few years so far. Wonder if it will be completed. I am sure it would be very popular with boaters

Purple Buddleia here

Passing through Milford Tony took this one of me on his phone.

rare for me to be in front of a camera. Yes its a proper sunshade, not an umbrella. It has a UV ray protective lining and gives me some welcome respite.

Whoops was inside making a cuppa where I felt the boat do a sharp turn and realized we were crossing the River Sow Aqueduct ! Just a glimpse of it from the engine room side hatch.

Paddle boarders here

Ah.. we are number 2 at Milford lock having caught up with another boat.

In we go

So we made it to Tixall which is just beyond.

Now to find a mooring. Front of boat in shade and rear of boat , with solar panels, in sunshine. Perfect.

The back will not come in but its very wide here so we left it hanging out sitting on the mud, so very stable.

Going to have a lie in tomorrow. (beyond 5am) .

Lots of walkers here. Many comment first on the angle we are moored at Then after a few mins they mention Narrow Escapes . Is there anybody that does not watch this programme ?

a beautiful evening here

there would have been an amazing sunset.

we can just see it through the hedge, and reflected in the water

We are staying here for the weekend. Being Sunday its all things domestic . bed changing, hoovering etc etc. Moving again on Monday.

6 locks today

191 total