Monday 21 August 2017

The Grand Union Canal






The Grand Union Canal is unique among English canals in that it is composed of at least eight separate canals.  The system links London with Birmingham, Leicester and Nottingham.


We are doing the section from Brentford up to Braunston.


After exiting Thames Lock Arkholmes engine stopped completely and coasted alongside this dutch barge where we stayed for several hours while River Canal Rescue came and sorted the problem.
Air had got into the fuel system.


Gauging Locks 


Brentford canalside.


We managed to find a mooring just below Clitheroe's Lock.  Trev spent the following day down the engine cleaning and tidying.


The lad did a good job.


The Grand Union has a 14'6" beam so its two boats at a time.






Grand Union wildlife.


The start of Hanwell flight of locks, 8 in all.


Heads down, the only way is up!!!


The remains of a Victorian mental asylum, the infilled brickworks once served as a arched loading bay.


I went on to set the next lock while this one was slow filling - 1 ground paddle and gate paddle out of action.  Its starting to bring back memories of Wigan Flight!!!


Yep 10 locks is a shock to the system after being spoilt on the Thames.


Today dawned with 'missle'


Mr Heron standing guard.....


over this little commune....


where Toggenberg is moored, a old favourite off the Lancaster Canal.


The Paddington Arm which leads to the Regent Canal and on to Limehouse down on to the Thames.


The Slough Arm


Our overnight resting place below Cowley Lock despite what Mr T put on his facebook status!!!!

Here is hoping for sunshine tomorrow.



No comments:

Post a Comment