Yesterday we booked to come down Frankton locks today on the Montgomery canal. They are only open between 12 and 2 pm each day and you have to book so that numbers can be limited (only 1270 boat movements a year are permitted). We have only come down the four locks and moored in the old arm of the Weston branch which is disused. There are water points and picnic tables here and it is very quiet (apart from a police helicopter which is polluting the atmosphere with its noise)!
We left Llangollen on Tuesday afternoon and had a very pleasant if rather slow cruise through the various narrows down to Trevor and then over the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct mooring just beyond at Froncysyllte for the night. This gave us the opportunity to walk back and cross the Aqueduct again but on foot and take more photo's, visit the basin and partake of some liquid refreshment at the Telford Inn.
Wednesday we had a rather late start but continued down the Llangollen through Whitehouse and Chirk tunnels and on through the two Marton locks. Very slow progress as a queue of seven boats had to clear in front of us although we watered up while we waited. We mooredjust beyond the Maestermyn House bridge on vary pleasant open moorings again provided courtesy of the Shropshire Union Canal society.
Weather is still very mixed and unpredictable, showers and breezy one minute and then bursts of hot sunny interludes. Took Mac a walk on down the canal this afternoon past the Graham Palmer lock and to the Perry Aqueduct. This was where a breach occured in February 1936 which led to closure in 1944. I seem to remember walking around the Frankton locks when they were still derelict and before restoration was started and there used to be a dry dock half way down which is now someones garden.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Llangollen
Our second burst of summer started yesterday and looks as if it has finished today. It is decidedly cool again tonight and we have just had a shower which has sent everyone into their boats on the moorings in the basin here at Llangollen.
Yesterday we had a very pleasant cruise up the last few miles through Chirk and Trevor into Llangollen in steadily improving weather with temperatures geeting decidedly warm,
Last night we walked the final two miles up to the start of the canal (boats other than the horse drawn trip boats are not allowed along here) at Horseshoefalls on the Dee.
Today it was pleasantly warm until about 2pm when the clouds started getting greyer and thicker. We lazed the morning away chatting to crews of neighbouring boats (including Brian and Carol off Arcadia that we photoed in Ellesmere). This afternoon we walked down to the station and caught the 3pm to Carrog hauled by Foxcote Manor
Yesterday we had a very pleasant cruise up the last few miles through Chirk and Trevor into Llangollen in steadily improving weather with temperatures geeting decidedly warm,
Saturday, June 25, 2011
The Jack Mytton Inn Hindford and St Martin's Moor
Woke up thinking we might have dry morning but no sooner started preparations to move and the heaven's opened again. Had to wait for another boat to wind in the arm before I could do same. We were then fairly wet before we got back to the junction and moored at Ellesmere BW Services to fill with water etc. The other boat was by now setting off and we followed after about ten minutes.
Bridie took a call from her sister about this time and started making arrangements for a meeting for lunch. Arrangements were altered after we caught up with the boat in front and realised that he was taking his time, slowing down and sounding his horn at bridge holes and all we could do was follow at less than tick over speed. Prairie Oyster has a reasonable sized propeller which is normally very useful but doesn't allow us to creep as slowly as some boats can. However luckily the boat took a left turn at Frankton Junction whilst we carried on and we finally settled our arrangements to meet at the Jack Mytton Inn at Hindford. The journey continued in steadily improving weather although we in our waterproofs and beginning to regret it.
We had an excellent lunch with Sue and Tony although the jovial landlord as described in Pearsons must have been having an off day (just glad his chef was on form). After lunch we took Sue and Tony on a short cruise through the two locks and moored a liitle further on at the St martin's Moor moorings. After this we walked back to Hindford with the dogs where Sue and departed back to Llanfairfechan in the car. Being back at the Inn again and it being only ten minutes or so to opening time we though some refreshment was in order!
Bridie took a call from her sister about this time and started making arrangements for a meeting for lunch. Arrangements were altered after we caught up with the boat in front and realised that he was taking his time, slowing down and sounding his horn at bridge holes and all we could do was follow at less than tick over speed. Prairie Oyster has a reasonable sized propeller which is normally very useful but doesn't allow us to creep as slowly as some boats can. However luckily the boat took a left turn at Frankton Junction whilst we carried on and we finally settled our arrangements to meet at the Jack Mytton Inn at Hindford. The journey continued in steadily improving weather although we in our waterproofs and beginning to regret it.
We had an excellent lunch with Sue and Tony although the jovial landlord as described in Pearsons must have been having an off day (just glad his chef was on form). After lunch we took Sue and Tony on a short cruise through the two locks and moored a liitle further on at the St martin's Moor moorings. After this we walked back to Hindford with the dogs where Sue and departed back to Llanfairfechan in the car. Being back at the Inn again and it being only ten minutes or so to opening time we though some refreshment was in order!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Stopover at Ellesmere
Well in Pearson's Canal guide for the Llangollen canal he refers to the exodus of hire boats descending Grindley Brook Staircase on Thursdays. He was not wrong and we timed it beautifully. Yesterday we managed 17 miles, 9 locks and 5 lift bridges, all against the flow of boats, so minimising our work at locks and bridges. This compares with the 8 miles, 6 locks and 3 lift bridges we managed on Wednesday. Admittedley we did cruise for longer setting off about 10am and mooring up here in the Ellesmere Arm at about 5pm. The weather was not perfect, plenty of cloud, cool for June and the occaisional shower but we didn't get more than damp and it would have been warm work for the crew if the temperature had been higher. As it is the crew has put in for a pay rise but settled for lunch at the Black Lion today. I am all heart!
The Arm still has lots of land where the Dairy used to be, which is now available for development. The old wharf is still derelict but we now have a Tesco conveniently in site of our mooring.
At least some effort has been made in its design and it has to some extent copied the style of the old wharf building for its frontage to the canal.
We chose not to move on today after all that effort yesterday and have been for a wander round the town and then down to the Visitor Centre at the Mere, followed by an excellent fish and chip lunch at the Black Lion. We had intended to go for another walk with the dogs after a 'quick' shop at the new Tesco however by the time we got unpacked and had a drink the rain started up again. It steadily built up to a deluge but not until after I took this photo of the crew of Arcadia (from Stenson) bravely sitting out under the trees with umbrellas continuing their chat to the crew of a very fine looking tug moored behind them.
We chose not to move on today after all that effort yesterday and have been for a wander round the town and then down to the Visitor Centre at the Mere, followed by an excellent fish and chip lunch at the Black Lion. We had intended to go for another walk with the dogs after a 'quick' shop at the new Tesco however by the time we got unpacked and had a drink the rain started up again. It steadily built up to a deluge but not until after I took this photo of the crew of Arcadia (from Stenson) bravely sitting out under the trees with umbrellas continuing their chat to the crew of a very fine looking tug moored behind them.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Marbury on the Llangollen canal
Moored within walking distance of Marbury not to be confused with Marbury Country Park we visited last weekend.
The forecast on Country File on Sunday had us to believe Wednesday would be rather wet and windy. Although not altogether wrong, it rained quite heavily overnight and there were plenty of very stormy grey clouds about all day. However we did not get as wet as I thought we would. We were prepared and put on our water proofs and we did use the umbrella between locks on more than one occaision but we did not get the soaking we expected. We had a fairly pleasant cruise through Swanley locks (2), Baddiley locks (3), Wrenbury lift bridges (3), and Marbury lock (1) and moored just past Marbury, again on very pleasant and quiet moorings provided by the Shropshire Union Canal Society, thank you.
Had a pleasant walk back to Steer Bridge and down the lane into Marbury to see St Michaels Church overlooking the mere.
Also managed a short visit to the Swan for refreshment before returning to the boat for dinner.
The forecast on Country File on Sunday had us to believe Wednesday would be rather wet and windy. Although not altogether wrong, it rained quite heavily overnight and there were plenty of very stormy grey clouds about all day. However we did not get as wet as I thought we would. We were prepared and put on our water proofs and we did use the umbrella between locks on more than one occaision but we did not get the soaking we expected. We had a fairly pleasant cruise through Swanley locks (2), Baddiley locks (3), Wrenbury lift bridges (3), and Marbury lock (1) and moored just past Marbury, again on very pleasant and quiet moorings provided by the Shropshire Union Canal Society, thank you.
Had a pleasant walk back to Steer Bridge and down the lane into Marbury to see St Michaels Church overlooking the mere.
Also managed a short visit to the Swan for refreshment before returning to the boat for dinner.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Burland on Llangollen Canal
A later start today as we moved off after a continuous stream of boats passed us mid morning heading in both directions. It was breezy with plenty of clouds and some, not particularly warm, sunshine. Pleasant enough cruising however, until we reached Church Minshull lock. As we came through the last bridge hole we could see a long queue of boats and as we pulled in the rain started. The next hour was spent slowly moving forward a boat length at a time until seven boats and over an hour later it was our turn. All this time it had been fairly wet and windy so not condusive to standing about to chat. Bridie managed to rustle up a bit of lunch to keep us from starving.
No one caught up with us so we were last in the queue all this time and then on to the next lock at Cholmondeston with the rain easing. Here there were only two boats in front of us so not so long to wait. The buffer beam on the top gate had been damaged so the lock was plastered in BW Caution notices and I kept back not wanting it dropping on the front of Prairie Oyster. On then to Barbridge Junction where what looked like a coach party was lined up to watch me make the left turn. I got a standing ovation and was told off by Bridie for not taking a bow!
One mile along the Shropshire Union and we took a right turn at Hurleston Junction just in time for the crew of a descending boat to help Bridie with the gates, not so easy getting off the bank with the wind.
Up the four locks, watered up and at 5:30 moored up on Shropshire Union moorings at Burland just as another shower arrived.
No one caught up with us so we were last in the queue all this time and then on to the next lock at Cholmondeston with the rain easing. Here there were only two boats in front of us so not so long to wait. The buffer beam on the top gate had been damaged so the lock was plastered in BW Caution notices and I kept back not wanting it dropping on the front of Prairie Oyster. On then to Barbridge Junction where what looked like a coach party was lined up to watch me make the left turn. I got a standing ovation and was told off by Bridie for not taking a bow!
One mile along the Shropshire Union and we took a right turn at Hurleston Junction just in time for the crew of a descending boat to help Bridie with the gates, not so easy getting off the bank with the wind.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Walley's Green on SUC Middlewich Branch
Woke early to brilliant sunshine and clear blue sky. Away by 9:00am (early for us!) and made steady progress against the flow of boats from Middlewich. Went into Big Lock with nb Tusbran which had been moored behind us overnight and left just a few minutes before us.
We moored up and went for a Tesco shopping trip before lunch. Soon off to the lock flight in a short queue so water up whilst waiting then up the three locks slowly passing boats descending at each one. Turned right just before Kings lock into Wardle lock and onto the Middlewich branch. Carried on still in glorious sunshine to Stanthorne Lock still in queue of three. Onwards through Clive Green under the West Coast main line and moored on the SUC moorings overlooking Top flash (a subsidence induced lake beside the Weaver according to our trusty Pearsons.
Got the chairs out and opened a beer and enjoyed the last of the sun as the clouds built up and by 7:30 the rain had started again.
We moored up and went for a Tesco shopping trip before lunch. Soon off to the lock flight in a short queue so water up whilst waiting then up the three locks slowly passing boats descending at each one. Turned right just before Kings lock into Wardle lock and onto the Middlewich branch. Carried on still in glorious sunshine to Stanthorne Lock still in queue of three. Onwards through Clive Green under the West Coast main line and moored on the SUC moorings overlooking Top flash (a subsidence induced lake beside the Weaver according to our trusty Pearsons.
Got the chairs out and opened a beer and enjoyed the last of the sun as the clouds built up and by 7:30 the rain had started again.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Leaving the Weaver
On Friday Wal and Jane went into Northwich to the shops and salt museum while Bridie and I went into the local park for a walk with the dogs. We moved the boats down river onto the moorings near the Anderton lift for lunch. After lunch we spent the afternoon exploring the Northwich Woods and Marbury Country Park and this time we found our way into the garden centre in the old walled garden. The plants looked excellent, lots of colour and variety, must visit again when we need plants!
Saturday was a rather damp morning with showers and we prepared for our exit from the Weaver having to move onto the landing at 11am ready for our booked slot at 11:30. Once back on the T&M we both went round to the Anderton service point where we departed heading south towards Middlewich whilst Wal and Jane winded Ruby Tuesday to return northwards to Preston Brook where the boat was due back early on Sunday morning.
Bridie and I went as far as the flash in the Dane Valley where we had stopped on June 8. We stopped here for the rest of Saturday and Sunday to avoid the crowds at the Middlewich boat festival. One high point (!) was seeing an EWS class 66 hauling a very long train of Tarmac wagons (some marked lime and cement). So this line is still used but it was the only train we saw over the three days we were there.
Saturday was a rather damp morning with showers and we prepared for our exit from the Weaver having to move onto the landing at 11am ready for our booked slot at 11:30. Once back on the T&M we both went round to the Anderton service point where we departed heading south towards Middlewich whilst Wal and Jane winded Ruby Tuesday to return northwards to Preston Brook where the boat was due back early on Sunday morning.
Bridie and I went as far as the flash in the Dane Valley where we had stopped on June 8. We stopped here for the rest of Saturday and Sunday to avoid the crowds at the Middlewich boat festival. One high point (!) was seeing an EWS class 66 hauling a very long train of Tarmac wagons (some marked lime and cement). So this line is still used but it was the only train we saw over the three days we were there.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Salt Union and the Italian Meal
Another damp morning caused a retreat on the early morning dog walk. However once underway it cleared and we had a dry cruise up past the Salt Union mine
where lorries were busy being filled
and then going to the top of a new salt mountain to tip their contents.
Turned at Winsford in sight of the road bridge over the entrance to the flashes. Slowly retraced our path back to Vale Royal past the mine, numerous fishermen and the council workmen removing the greenery from our mooring site. Onto the pontoon to await next locking at 12:45. Then onwards to Hunts lock and into Northwich to moor at Town Quay and into town for a bit of shopping and to book a table for dinner at Guilio's an Italian Restaraunt Bridie and I have visited before. An excellent meal as it turned out which we all enjoyed later.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Vale Royal
Dry start to the day and would have made an earlier departure but for getting into conversation with crew of nb Amy and generally enjoying the ambience of Devils Elbow. However we were eventually interrupted by another narrow boat trying to moor up. nb Amy departed downstream whilst we departed upstream closely followed by two of the three broadbeam boats we saw yesterday (Maggie D and Moonshine) and were moored further up the bend from us. We then led a strung out procession up the Weaver to Dutton Lock where we waited for another boat to descend.
Onwards to Saltersford Lock where we took advantage of the lock keepers lunch break to water up. Once through Saltersford we carried on past the lift and through Northwich to Hunts lock by which time it was raining. At Hunts lock we caught up with nb Barney from Chirk on the Llangollen canal. The three of us just fitted abreast in the smaller of the two locks (this being the only Weaver lock currently still able to use the small lock instead of the larger ship lock).
As we then progressed towards Vale Royal the heavens opened and tipped water all over us, we weren't sure if there wasn't more water falling than we were sailing on! At last through the railway viaduct arches we spotted the mooring pontoon and breasted up to wait fo r 3:15 as instructed.
After locking we moored on the visitor moorings about a quarter mile upstream where the lock cut leaves the river. We ignored the yellow BW notices telling us they were closed having established with the workmen that they would not be digging where we were moored until the following afternoon. Cheshire CC are busy destroying the grassy Weaver towpath that has been used by boaters, walkers and fishermen for over a hundred years. All in the name of progress and to ensure that the cyclists can hurtle along at breakneck speed without dismounting of course. Not that they would ever notice their surroundings anyway!
Onwards to Saltersford Lock where we took advantage of the lock keepers lunch break to water up. Once through Saltersford we carried on past the lift and through Northwich to Hunts lock by which time it was raining. At Hunts lock we caught up with nb Barney from Chirk on the Llangollen canal. The three of us just fitted abreast in the smaller of the two locks (this being the only Weaver lock currently still able to use the small lock instead of the larger ship lock).
As we then progressed towards Vale Royal the heavens opened and tipped water all over us, we weren't sure if there wasn't more water falling than we were sailing on! At last through the railway viaduct arches we spotted the mooring pontoon and breasted up to wait fo r 3:15 as instructed.
After locking we moored on the visitor moorings about a quarter mile upstream where the lock cut leaves the river. We ignored the yellow BW notices telling us they were closed having established with the workmen that they would not be digging where we were moored until the following afternoon. Cheshire CC are busy destroying the grassy Weaver towpath that has been used by boaters, walkers and fishermen for over a hundred years. All in the name of progress and to ensure that the cyclists can hurtle along at breakneck speed without dismounting of course. Not that they would ever notice their surroundings anyway!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Devils Elbow on the Weaver
Woke just before 8 in time to see the yacht 'Starship' moored below Dutton lock on the waterpoint opposite slip its mooring and set off, ultimate destination Cherbourg.
We followed down river a couple of hours later after a leisurely and sunny start to the day, walking dogs, chatting to lock keeper and owner of boat passing upstream with Frodsham marked on its side. He answers my query that we are not able to moor in the Frodsham cut and it now has a beam barring the entrance. He last moored there some ten years ago.
Later in the day we moored just before the entrance, took our rucksacks and walked the old towpath down past the low bridge and town lock to explore a little of Frodsham. We saw a small coastal ship and barge tied together on the wharf, the barge low in the water so is fully laden.
In Frodsham we searched out the butchers to buy some of Sue Cowards pies as recommended by the lock keeper at Saltersford. Then had refreshments at the Queens Head, a delightful Inn with welcoming landlady keen to satisfy our varying demands of tea, coffee, wine and beer! We then retraced our steps with minor detour for shopping and had covered nearly six miles by the time we arrived back at the boats.
We moved on to the Sutton Weaver swing bridge services and moored in front of nb Caroline to await an engineer for Ruby Tuesday. Turned out to be fairly protracted stop as engineer made two visits to replace alternator and fridge. Had a very pleasant chat and cup of tea with crew of Caroline whilst we were there. they too were having alternaor problems and awaiting a delivery. Then set off for evening cruise to try and replenish the batteries on Ruby Tuesday.
The weather today was rather good, we stayed dry and even saw plenty of sunshine and our late cruise was again in very pleasant evening sunshine. After turning near Weston Marsh sea lock we retraced our path past the services and Caroline against the flow of the local rowing club, past the Frodsham cut and managed to find a space long enough to squeeze Ruby Tuesday into then breasted Prairie Oyster up on the offside being careful to switch engines off quickly to avoid scaring the two ferrets in a large cage on stern deck of nb Amy.
We followed down river a couple of hours later after a leisurely and sunny start to the day, walking dogs, chatting to lock keeper and owner of boat passing upstream with Frodsham marked on its side. He answers my query that we are not able to moor in the Frodsham cut and it now has a beam barring the entrance. He last moored there some ten years ago.
Later in the day we moored just before the entrance, took our rucksacks and walked the old towpath down past the low bridge and town lock to explore a little of Frodsham. We saw a small coastal ship and barge tied together on the wharf, the barge low in the water so is fully laden.
In Frodsham we searched out the butchers to buy some of Sue Cowards pies as recommended by the lock keeper at Saltersford. Then had refreshments at the Queens Head, a delightful Inn with welcoming landlady keen to satisfy our varying demands of tea, coffee, wine and beer! We then retraced our steps with minor detour for shopping and had covered nearly six miles by the time we arrived back at the boats.
We moved on to the Sutton Weaver swing bridge services and moored in front of nb Caroline to await an engineer for Ruby Tuesday. Turned out to be fairly protracted stop as engineer made two visits to replace alternator and fridge. Had a very pleasant chat and cup of tea with crew of Caroline whilst we were there. they too were having alternaor problems and awaiting a delivery. Then set off for evening cruise to try and replenish the batteries on Ruby Tuesday.
The weather today was rather good, we stayed dry and even saw plenty of sunshine and our late cruise was again in very pleasant evening sunshine. After turning near Weston Marsh sea lock we retraced our path past the services and Caroline against the flow of the local rowing club, past the Frodsham cut and managed to find a space long enough to squeeze Ruby Tuesday into then breasted Prairie Oyster up on the offside being careful to switch engines off quickly to avoid scaring the two ferrets in a large cage on stern deck of nb Amy.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Dutton Lock
Yesterday was a wash out, rained nearly all day, we did not go out with the dogs let alone move the boat. We had a lazy day reading, playing card games and generally keeping dry!
This morning started very grey and overcast but it was not raining. We made an early start and had walked dogs, breakfasted and moved the boat a mile to Anderton services by 9:30. Once watered up we moved round to the lift and met up with Wal and Jane on 'Ruby Tuesday' ready for our booked slot of 11:30. 'Saturn' the historic Shropshire Union boat came up the lift with a tug and we watched them come off the lift breasted up and then rope up ready for towing.
Wal had to wait for them to move off the winding hole before he could turn and in doing so drifted towards the offside and managed to become wedged such that the pole was required to extracate himself.
At which point a coach load of OAP's arrived generally proving the point that on the canals if ever you get into trouble there is always an audience ready to watch and laugh!
We managed to move into the lift caisson without further mishap and enjoyed the friendly banter from the BW staff as we descended and exited into the Weaver.
Heading downstream we went as far as Barnton Cut where we moored for lunch. By now there was a noticeable break in the grey cloud with patches of blue and I phoned ahead to the Saltersford lock for instructions to be told a yacht was on its way through Winington swing bridge and that we should proceed straight into the lock and wait for it to arrive.
Once we had both moored in the lock a third narrow boat 'Winston' arrived and came alongside, leaving room for the yacht to moor behind us. Once it arrived there was then much discussion as to who was going on through Dutton and who was mooring where between boat crews and the Saltersford lock keeper so that he could call ahead to the Dutton lock keeper.
The prescence of the yacht meant we narrow boaters all wanted to see him go through Acton swing bridge which would have to be opened for the yacht. So the plan was hatched to be in position to take photo's as the yacht followed us through. we have visited Acton Bridge on several occaisions over the last few years and had never seen the bridge open, this was a first!
Onwards to Dutton and all four boats moved through the lock in same positions as before. This time 'Winston' went on down the river towards Frodsham. The yacht elected to moor on the north landings as his mast would have been in the trees on the south side and so Ruby Tuesday and Prairie Oyster were moored here after some pruning of a tree as our combined length was such that our stern was burried in foliage to start with.
By now the blue sky was the dominant feature and we were able to take Wal, Jane and our dogs on one of our favourite circular walks in the sunshine. This took us back up onto the T&M for a stretch of towpath walking before returning through fields past the lock cottages to the lock.
This morning started very grey and overcast but it was not raining. We made an early start and had walked dogs, breakfasted and moved the boat a mile to Anderton services by 9:30. Once watered up we moved round to the lift and met up with Wal and Jane on 'Ruby Tuesday' ready for our booked slot of 11:30. 'Saturn' the historic Shropshire Union boat came up the lift with a tug and we watched them come off the lift breasted up and then rope up ready for towing.
We managed to move into the lift caisson without further mishap and enjoyed the friendly banter from the BW staff as we descended and exited into the Weaver.
Once we had both moored in the lock a third narrow boat 'Winston' arrived and came alongside, leaving room for the yacht to moor behind us. Once it arrived there was then much discussion as to who was going on through Dutton and who was mooring where between boat crews and the Saltersford lock keeper so that he could call ahead to the Dutton lock keeper.
The prescence of the yacht meant we narrow boaters all wanted to see him go through Acton swing bridge which would have to be opened for the yacht. So the plan was hatched to be in position to take photo's as the yacht followed us through. we have visited Acton Bridge on several occaisions over the last few years and had never seen the bridge open, this was a first!
Onwards to Dutton and all four boats moved through the lock in same positions as before. This time 'Winston' went on down the river towards Frodsham. The yacht elected to moor on the north landings as his mast would have been in the trees on the south side and so Ruby Tuesday and Prairie Oyster were moored here after some pruning of a tree as our combined length was such that our stern was burried in foliage to start with.
By now the blue sky was the dominant feature and we were able to take Wal, Jane and our dogs on one of our favourite circular walks in the sunshine. This took us back up onto the T&M for a stretch of towpath walking before returning through fields past the lock cottages to the lock.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Middlewich
Progressed on down the Dane Valley to Middlewich through Big Lock, turned and moored ready for a shopping trip to Tesco. Have a mobile signal here so catch up with blog. Intend to stay overnight and move back up the Dane Valley towards Northwich tomorrow. Have managed to stay dry today despite repeated attempts at showers and it was decidedly chilly this morning.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
The Dane Valley
Weather forecast for today was not promising at all for the NW. Up and off to the Anderton water point after walking the dogs in the Northwich woodlands again. Both taps free no waiting today so soon able to wind and head back the way we came - getting to know this stretch quite well!
Although thunder clouds were all round we managed to cruise between them until we got to Broken Cross, at which point we had a short downpour and Bridie had to recover the washing she had just put out to dry. On past Orchard marina and the site of a new marina being excavated and we moored up in one of the flashes alongside the (freight only) railway line between Northwich and Sandbach. Not sure if it is still used. No trains today but lines show sign of use and Network Rail gang working on it.
Another short days cruising, we have only done about 5 miles today. Having difficulties with broadband signal hence delays in adding to the blog.
Although thunder clouds were all round we managed to cruise between them until we got to Broken Cross, at which point we had a short downpour and Bridie had to recover the washing she had just put out to dry. On past Orchard marina and the site of a new marina being excavated and we moored up in one of the flashes alongside the (freight only) railway line between Northwich and Sandbach. Not sure if it is still used. No trains today but lines show sign of use and Network Rail gang working on it.
Another short days cruising, we have only done about 5 miles today. Having difficulties with broadband signal hence delays in adding to the blog.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Marbury from a different angle
On Monday the weather improved though it was raining when we woke! We took the dogs off for an explore in the Northwich Woodlands through Marshalls Wood via the banks of the River Weaver and then on to the Boat Lift Car park. Here we found more than a dozen Lagondas assembled, and preparing to depart. The owners were on a tour of Cheshire http://www.lagondaclub.co.uk/index.php?/diary/view/the_cheshire_tour_2011/ and visiting the Anderton Lift for a cruise down onto the Weaver. Most were big four and two litre beasts.....
but we both liked this smaller 1930's 1100cc twin cam tourer.....
The owner kindly (and enthuastically) opened the bonnet and started her up so we could see and hear the engine. He had had a problem with the Magneto on the A40 but carried a spare, and the car was recovered and repaired succesfully.
We crossed the T&M by the footbridge at the lift and visited the Stanley Arms for a welcome lunch and some liquid refreshment sitting outside in the sunshine at a table on the decking overlooking the canal.
Afterwards walking through the village we found that the stores we have visited in the past has now closed, so no milk to be found in Anderton, and neither of the marinas carry any supplies.
Today it again started wet but cleared so we walked the dogs in Big wood and took some photos of one of the three meadows that have been planted up this year.....
After this we cruised down to the next winding hole at Wincham where we turned and moored just in time for another cloud burst of really heavy rain. It cleared after about forty minutes and we were able to walk to bridge 189 by Wincham Wharf and walk along the main road away from Northwich to find some shops. Succesfully restocked with milk, bread and sundry purchases returned and had our lunch before cruising back to Marbury mooring just a few hundred yards from where we were this morning.This time being moored with port side against towpath I was able to polish this side of the boat which I had not managed to complete so far this holiday. Also we are now moored in a more open position out of the trees so if weather stays fine should enjoy the light for a little longer this evening. Further we are now facing back towards the services in Anderton which we plan to use tomorrow before turning again and heading for Middlewich.
but we both liked this smaller 1930's 1100cc twin cam tourer.....
The owner kindly (and enthuastically) opened the bonnet and started her up so we could see and hear the engine. He had had a problem with the Magneto on the A40 but carried a spare, and the car was recovered and repaired succesfully.
We crossed the T&M by the footbridge at the lift and visited the Stanley Arms for a welcome lunch and some liquid refreshment sitting outside in the sunshine at a table on the decking overlooking the canal.
Afterwards walking through the village we found that the stores we have visited in the past has now closed, so no milk to be found in Anderton, and neither of the marinas carry any supplies.
Today it again started wet but cleared so we walked the dogs in Big wood and took some photos of one of the three meadows that have been planted up this year.....
After this we cruised down to the next winding hole at Wincham where we turned and moored just in time for another cloud burst of really heavy rain. It cleared after about forty minutes and we were able to walk to bridge 189 by Wincham Wharf and walk along the main road away from Northwich to find some shops. Succesfully restocked with milk, bread and sundry purchases returned and had our lunch before cruising back to Marbury mooring just a few hundred yards from where we were this morning.This time being moored with port side against towpath I was able to polish this side of the boat which I had not managed to complete so far this holiday. Also we are now moored in a more open position out of the trees so if weather stays fine should enjoy the light for a little longer this evening. Further we are now facing back towards the services in Anderton which we plan to use tomorrow before turning again and heading for Middlewich.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Marbury Country Park - Is summer over?
Well Friday was a scorcher and we stayed put near bridge 211. We had a lazy morning and only moved in the late afternoon venturing on a towpath walk with the dogs to the Leigh Arms for a drink near Acton Swing bridge on the Weaver. Saturday started out with promise for more of the same and we moved on via the two tunnels (Saltersford and Barnton) to Anderton in brilliant sunshine. Although there was a breeze which got stronger as the day wore on. At Anderton we stopped to visit the booking office for the Anderton Lift where I booked passsages down for Monday 13th for us and our friends with their hire boat.
Once booked we moved onto the services to fill the water tank again (which seemed to take for ever) and moved on to moor up near the footbridge in Marbury Country Park. During the afternoon we went for another explore in the Big Wood and watched dinghies and sailboards on the lake, the breeze now a fairly stiff wind so plenty of action to watch. We encountered 'Cameron' a labrador whose name we quickly learnt as his owner shrieked instructions and shouted his name at the top of her voice. Poor dog I would have ignored her as well! Admired the newly planted meadows covered in ox-eye daisies and lots of other less numerous meadow plants including red poppies and purple foxgloves. Then noticed the approaching grey sky, retreated and reached the boat just before the rain started.
And so summer is over (?) today has been grey all day with almost no sun to speak of. We woke to pouring rain and although it has not rained all day it has never dried out and keeps spitting if not pouring. Have been busy trying to install a new navigation light but now my drill battery is in need of recharging so slow progress.
Once booked we moved onto the services to fill the water tank again (which seemed to take for ever) and moved on to moor up near the footbridge in Marbury Country Park. During the afternoon we went for another explore in the Big Wood and watched dinghies and sailboards on the lake, the breeze now a fairly stiff wind so plenty of action to watch. We encountered 'Cameron' a labrador whose name we quickly learnt as his owner shrieked instructions and shouted his name at the top of her voice. Poor dog I would have ignored her as well! Admired the newly planted meadows covered in ox-eye daisies and lots of other less numerous meadow plants including red poppies and purple foxgloves. Then noticed the approaching grey sky, retreated and reached the boat just before the rain started.
And so summer is over (?) today has been grey all day with almost no sun to speak of. We woke to pouring rain and although it has not rained all day it has never dried out and keeps spitting if not pouring. Have been busy trying to install a new navigation light but now my drill battery is in need of recharging so slow progress.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Summer arrives at Dutton!
We stayed on at Moore for an extra day as Bridie had pulled a leg muscle after pushing the boat out from Thorne Marine. Mac and I spent the afternoon exploring the nature reserve across the Ship canal over Moore Lane Swing Bridge. The weather was at least dry but it was mainly depressingly grey and not very warm although it brightened a little in the evening. Saw lots of rabbits and water fowl, not much else but did hear a cuckoo.
Today we moved off the Bridgewater and back into BW waters at Preston Brook where we entered the Trent and Mersey Canal. We set off about 10:30 again it was grey and fairly depressing, several boaters commenting on lack of sun and a certain coolness! After about two miles we past Claymore navigation and soon arrived at the entrance to Preston Brook tunnel at almost spot on 11:30 which was perfect. There are only ten minutes in any hour you can enter the tunnel and going south as we were it was between 30 minutes and 40 minutes past the hour (on the hour until 10 minutes past if heading north). As it was two boats had just come north as we approached and a boat was just heading into the tunnel as we came into view of the entrance, perfect no having to moor up and wait.
Once through the tunnel and the stop lock at other side we proceeded for just two miles and moored just past a winding hole before bridge 211 another favoured spot. Once moored up and lunched we took the dogs for a circuit down past the Dutton lock on the River Weaver (over the new approach bridge rebuilt earlier in the year) and through Dutton Park back via bridge 213.
It was at this point about 3:15 pm that it happened, first we noticed blue sky, then the sun appeared and by the time we got back to the boat it was definitely a sunny summers day! Chairs and drinks out and a very pleasant two or three hours enjoying the bird song, including frequent calls from a peacock at Dutton Hall and responses from a far off cockerel (who had got the time of day wrong).
Today we moved off the Bridgewater and back into BW waters at Preston Brook where we entered the Trent and Mersey Canal. We set off about 10:30 again it was grey and fairly depressing, several boaters commenting on lack of sun and a certain coolness! After about two miles we past Claymore navigation and soon arrived at the entrance to Preston Brook tunnel at almost spot on 11:30 which was perfect. There are only ten minutes in any hour you can enter the tunnel and going south as we were it was between 30 minutes and 40 minutes past the hour (on the hour until 10 minutes past if heading north). As it was two boats had just come north as we approached and a boat was just heading into the tunnel as we came into view of the entrance, perfect no having to moor up and wait.
Once through the tunnel and the stop lock at other side we proceeded for just two miles and moored just past a winding hole before bridge 211 another favoured spot. Once moored up and lunched we took the dogs for a circuit down past the Dutton lock on the River Weaver (over the new approach bridge rebuilt earlier in the year) and through Dutton Park back via bridge 213.
It was at this point about 3:15 pm that it happened, first we noticed blue sky, then the sun appeared and by the time we got back to the boat it was definitely a sunny summers day! Chairs and drinks out and a very pleasant two or three hours enjoying the bird song, including frequent calls from a peacock at Dutton Hall and responses from a far off cockerel (who had got the time of day wrong).
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