Banbury

Today we stayed in Banbury making the most of the facilities in the nearby shopping mall and staying out of the rain.

We got a good view from the local multistory car park.



Yesterday we had a good look round and went to Banbury museum which was very interesting and the canal section is on a bridge over the canal.



We did go to Banbury Cross.



And ate in the Globe Room at Ye Olde Reine Deer Inn. This is the room where Oliver Cromwell had his head quarters during the civil war.

Are we going to Banbury Cross

We probably will.

Given the weather forecast we think we may well stay here all day tomorrow.

Last night we found some very interesting and tasty specials.



Today we negotiated high wind and showers but still lost control at one point and nudged some moored boats.

We are moored in the middle of Banbury.



And the crew is happy there are shops.



All in all a good day.

Happy Birthday Alison.

Cropredy

Today despite the water shortages we made it to Cropredy. Tonight we are going to eat at the Brasenose arms as the have a good gluten free menu.



Today's cruise was uneventful but hot.



The heat is meant to go away tomorrow. We hope.

Hot and hotter

Today we made it to Fenny Compton. 8 hours cruising but we got a good mooring and the Wharf serves gluten free food.

We traversed Naptom locks.



And the crew were pretty good.





But some worked harder than others.

Afloat at last.

Today we set off on our summer holiday. First time Magpie has moved since November



Gracie was a great helmswoman.



And we made it to Braunston without incident.

First Drive of the Season

On Sunday I drove Blackpool 40 on a very cold day at Crich. Much too cold to take many photos unfortunately.

Wonders of the Waterways

Today we decided to visit two wonders of the waterways.

Unfortunately the Anderton boat lift was all shut up so we were initially disappointed.

From there we went further West.



As we got closer it looked even more impressive.



The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct was built by Thomas Telford and is a world heritage site. The pictures speak for themselves.









Then we went on to Chirk.

We walked through the tunnel.



And then over the aquaduct here too.









It's a long way down.





A thoroughly enjoyable trip.