“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.”
Today started with a two hour queue of approximately 15 boats looking to go down the Napton Flight; water levels are low and CRT (Canal & River Trust) are looking to close much of the oxford on the 21st July. We have spent most of today dragging the hull along the bottom of the Oxford, but after seven hours we have made it to the bottom of the flight where a pub is conveniently located to reward tired boaters with a cold beverage of choice and some warm food to put energy back into the system! Making this location even better is a full compliment of CRT services (two water points, bin store and a pump out for those using one.
The feeling of reaching the bottom of the flight is amazing and it has truly been one of the best days I have had afloat; challenges of navigation and queuing for locks provided the ideal opportunity to share anecdotes with fellow boaters and learn from others experience. Tips and Tricks from other boaters are like gold dust.
As morning turned to afternoon I sit here with evening and a cooling sun which is a much welcome relief from the current heatwave with temperatures reaching approximately 30°c which for the UK is phenomenally hot but to see blue skies and the sunshine are like nectar to the soul (and also extremely good for mental health, alongside birdsong and beautiful sights of the top of the Oxford.
Next? we reach Napton Junction where I am planning to head around the Warwickshire ring but will need to ask the boss (wife) and daughter where they would like to go. Warwick castle is definitely on the list as it has been 32 years since I last went and enjoyed the dungeons and sights – they now offer guided dungeon tours which I am thoroughly looking forward to experiencing with the girls.
Until next time, keep smiling and keep afloat!
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