Today started off with a bit of excitement, within about half a mile we came upon Vazon Sliding Railway Bridge. Apparently the only one left in the world. The railway line crosses the canal just a few feet above water level. When a boat needs to pass the whole bridge slides out sideways. It’s quite
The lock keeper at Torksey said that high water would be at 12:30, so we should set off at twelve, then push against the rising tide for about an hour. This would give us a bit more time to get to Keadby. The lock at Keadby can only be used for about 5 hours either
Yet another day of unbroken sunshine, but this time with a chilly wind to accompany it. We had planned a late cooked breakfast today, but that didn’t work out. On the river the only stopping places are at locks. The first one was too early. The lock keeper at the next lock told us that
We are now on the river Trent, the non-tidal part. We left Shardlow at about eight o’clock and shared the locks through to Nottingham with a couple going to watch an England vs South Africa game at Trent Bridge . A stop at Sainsburys to top up the fridge & grocery cupboard and then onto
We had an early start and were away by about eight. There were lots of boats about, but we got through Fradley without having to queue for long. A stop was taken in Arlewas for a late breakfast (Full English). It’s a lovely village and we used to stop here years ago when we had
A really great day today. Only four locks, but got our exercise by going for a 5+ mile walk through Cannock Chase and then back via the Shugborough Hall estate. The footpath goes right through the estate, so we didn’t have to pay (though we couldn’t go round the house itself !). Then back across
A misty start, and rather chilly at first, but it soon warmed up and we had a great day. Busy with boats, meeting somebody at most locks. Whilst queueing at Gailey lock we bought a new tiller pin from the boat following us.
We have spent the last two days doing various assorted maintenance jobs. Saturday was painting day. We touched up the side below the gunnels where there were chips caused by workmen with strimmers flicking up stones. The front well deck also got a new coat of paint and also the locker at the back where