Two Chances Not To Miss!

Sunday 1^st October 2017

Before Bridge 22, GU to Braunston

8 miles, 13 locks

In view of the dire forecast (tropical rainstorm) for Monday we decided to go for it and get to Braunston today, so an early start was in order and we pulled pins at 08:15.  I had been warned that the 7 locks at Buckby were hard and even worse if travelling as a solo boat.  The warnings, I am sorry to say, were very accurate!

The first lock was empty, so at least we could go straight in, however this was the sight that greeted us at the second, third and fifth locks - water pouring over the back gates.  One even had a top gate open, so that had to be closed prior to emptying the lock for us to enter.

The day was dull and grey, but it was, at least, dry

I remember this house from two years ago - it is wise to proceed in an orderly manor to avoid

being fired on!

The last two locks had boats coming down which does help and one of them is a very well known boat - nb Chance - out on a three week cruise.  Apparently they are planning a six month long trip next year, so it does look as though she will be used and loved and not left languishing in a marina. I gathered that the lady from the boat works on cruise ships, which seems rather appropriate given that the previous owners take a lot of cruises themselves. The was the first Chance we did not miss.

We made it eventually - it took us 2.25 hours to transit 7 locks spread over about 2.25 miles.  To put that into some sort of context we have done the 30 locks at Tardebigge spread over the same distance, with just the two of us, in under 5 hours!

What a magnificent willow tree and so beautifully trimmed.  With the autumnal hues behind it, I think this is a particularly lovely photo.

Boats moored three abreast with another boat passing the other side make for interesting times!

This little chap/ess was at the toll house at Norton Junction - the "buster"collar did nothing to dampen its loud and insistent greeting as we passed.

After the junction as you approach Braunston Tunnel the world suddenly opens up giving far reaching views.

As we approached the last bridge before the tunnel, Chris had just nipped down to do what 'a man has to do from time to time' when I suddenly recognised the boat coming through the bridge.  Full reverse and bring Tentatrice in to the side (I dread to think what Chris thought I was doing whilst he was busy below) as this was definitely a Chance Not To Be Missed - it was FreeSpirit with Irene and Ian.  It must be a couple of years since we last met.

Hugs all round and a very quick chat as a boat came along going our way and having just done the Buckby locks alone we really wanted to pick up with them to do the 6 at Braunston and get to Braunston in good time to be able to get a mooring.

It was great to see you both albeit all too briefly.  Next time we are in close proximity we must try to arrange a night stop over in the same place.  This was a case of 'so near and yet so far'.

We shared the locks with nb Bojangles and together we flew up in no time at all - well it seemed that way.  Two boats in a wide lock makes life so much easier, plus the fact that at the first four locks there were boats waiting to come out, so no delays at all for us.  The only lock we had to empty before we entered was the last one of the day. 

I do love this door on a house on the Braunston flight

This is for Sue from nb Cleddau who has a much loved pair of boots that, although due a long service medal, I suspect cost more than 6'11.

So here we are at the last lock and despite being a Sunday not a volunteer lock keeper to be seen anywhere.  Sadly they have been noticeable by their absence for most of this trip.

According to this it should take 27 hours to get to Birmingham - we shall see. 

Despite being told by boats leaving Braunston that there were plenty of moorings, by the time we arrived there was not much choice, but we managed to find this one just past the Stop House

on 48 hour mooring rings

Well 57 foot of our 59 foot was in the 48 hour slot - the last 2 foot was in the permit holders only moorings.  We just had to hope that if the permit holder came back they were not too long and could spare 2 foot.

It is quiet here and has a decent view from the side hatch

After a very late lunch we went for a wander to the junction (called Braunston Turn)

Looking back along the canal towards the locks at the far end of this pound

On towards Coventry

and the way we will go to Birmingham

after we have stopped at Midland Chandlers for a few bits and bobs (I have no idea what, but have been assured there will be something we need!).