After over-nighting at the water point between the lock and the swing bridge, set off early-ish this morning as we needed to get nearer to a shop to get some supplies in. CC got the lock ready and we lent through.
A gentle cruise past a marina, round a few sharp corners, and a fallen tree later – we arrived at Woolhampton.
The map pre-warned us on this one.. according to the map there is a strong side stream between the lock and the swing bridge, you need to get the lock ready first, then open the swing bridge, and go though the swing bridge and into the lock without stopping (which can prove very annoying for cars stuck at the open bridge for 10 minutes). This proved to be correct, and it was difficult to get into the lock without hitting anything.
Once through the lock, we pulled in as there should be some shops nearby.. Anna and the kids went off to check out the shops, and I stayed onboard to get some work done – when it started to rain, so up went the bow and stern covers. By the time Anna got back, we decided to stay here for the night as it was still raining and the cats were desperate to get out.
Whilst there, got some photos for those who have never seen a swing bridge – or just how bad this side stream can be to a narrow boat :
The control panel for the bridge.. simple enough.. 1 button for open.. 1 for close.. 1 for “oh crap”.. and a key slot. Which until the bridge is fully closed again, you don’t get back – which is fun when it breaks down.. as you have to wait for them to fix it before you get your key back!
The side stream coming in from under the bridge.. and yes.. that’s a boat on the left moored up – with the side of it covered in about 10 tyres.. cant imagine why 🙂
A hire boat that went down the lock we came up..