Another long one planned for today – if we can get to where we expect, the plan is that we get the same done tomorrow, and we should arrive at Uxbridge Lock just as they are finishing the works – which will then allow 1 day to get to Thames Lock, and on the Thames Saturday morning. At least that’s the plan, lets see if it works out that way!
I have said that there are some interesting designs for narrow boats, and some even more interesting home modifications.. I suppose this guy is a “Continuous Touran”.. touran.. touring.. 😀 see what I did there.. sorry – Dad jokes coming out now!
Now.. it was looking to be a good gentle day full of locks admittedly, until we got to lock #68. Pulled in, waited.. waited.. The “brothers” from yesterday arrived as well, so we were both waiting for the lock. Waited a bit more for the boat coming up to come out.. waited.. waited.. and back came the kids from the lock. “It’s not filling.. or filling VERY slowly”.. Seems that the lock is letting out more water than it’s letting in..
After about an hour.. Dawson and I got fed up with this.. Whilst I was looking where I could tie a rope from the boat to a secure part of the gate to give it a gentle pull.. the gate wiggled.. so Dawson and I gave it the biggest shove we would and the gate started to open, with more water now being let in the levels were equalising!
Once through that lock, we left the guys in the lock – as there is a waterpoint there also.. yes, in the lock! and carried on our way.
Past Waterway Experiences.. who have a fleet of trip boats designed for disabled access..
And more private gardens backing onto the Canal..
A quick team swap, as the crew is starting to get tired now.
And were back within the M25 ring – Yep.. That’s junction 20 up there!
And lock #71.. the one that caused all the issues last year.. now fixed and fully operational again
We were planning to moor up around here tonight.. but no – no space for us – sorry guys.. a few more locks today!
And again.. a gap to moor in, but no way to get to the edge.. lets move a bit further!
And finally, a gap that we can get pulled into.. and this is our lot for tonight!
