Thursday, 22 June 2017

The Oxford Canal



Hawkesbury Junction


In the world of canals Hawkesbury Junction has it all.
The disused engine house which in days gone by pumped water into the canal from a well below.


A handsome cast iron bridge.


The fascinating Greyhound pub, dating from the 1800's, decorated with canal memorabilia and most importantly serving very tasty home cook food.


So it is a 'u' turn under the bridge and we have left the Coventry Canal and moved onto the Oxford.


Sokai steering round beautifully


No pressure then Arkholme....





What stars they are!!!


Sutton Stop Lock takes us down all of 6 inches!!!


 The Oxford commences its lengthy,roundabout journey to the Thames, 77 miles and 43 locks.


Good call... on the hottest, longest day of the year.


Where else to have lunch....on the hottest, longest day of the year.


Approaching Rose Narrowboats and Brinklow Boat Service, always a hive of activity the two being linked by a swing footbridge.


4 boats passing through at once today.


Creative mooring here and the working boat behind only just managing to get through.


Rose Narrowboats ready for hire.


Captain Trev is doing so well in the heat.


Just the ticket ....on the hottest longest day of the year.


Pure bliss....so cool


Almost 12 miles and over 4 hours cruising we rested for the night just beyond the tunnel at Newbold.



At intervals, other sections of the original route join and leave the canal  beneath elegant cast-iron bridges.


1 mile and we are at Rugby services and a Tesco shop which is only 5 minutes walk away....


but not before the Captain has updated his facebook status!!!!


Today we have seen work boat after work boat passing through, all on their way to a annual gathering at Braunston.



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