We made it to Brampton Mill - 31st July 2018

Tuesday 31st July 2018
Godmanchester to Brampton and back to Hemingford Grey
5.75 miles, 2 locks

We had some blue sky with fluffy white clouds this morning - well after the early morning rain.

Monty and I went off for a walk on Port Holme Meadow which was green, lush and full of flowers in on 6th June

dry and brown on 25th June

and today, after a couple of days of rain, it has come back to life and is becoming green again with a myriad of yellow flowers

We decided we would continue on to Brampton today as we wanted to explore the Mill,  There was just one boat moored on the 48 hour GOBA moorings - one Korky Kat that was in the same position as it was last time we passed this way on 19th July.  We had heard it had been moored on the Godmanchester back water for a long time, so it appears they have just moved along a mile to take up long term residence elsewhere!

So here we were at the Mill.

First we had to get across the field behind the moorings taking care where you put your foot - the previous occupants had been bovine.  Head towards a metal construction and on the right of that you will find a kissing gate.  Once there we discovered it is locked with a padlock which looks as though it takes an EA key.  Did we have one?  No we have a BWB key on the boat key ring - not a lot of use round this way!  There was nothing for it, but to go over the top.  I am glad no one was there to watch!

Once you are on the other side you can see why it is locked - they could just do with a notice at the mooring that you need a key to get out.

This is what we were aiming for

There is a little ferry that travels from here to Godmanchester many times a day and always seems to be fairly busy.

A close up of the working mill wheel.

Looking back we are tucked in behind Korky Kat

 The idea was to have lunch.  Sadly for us it is a restaurant with no real choice of normal sandwiches.  We opted for a sharing platter starter which was good, but unless we wanted a full meal, I don't think we would go back.

We set off back to Godmanchester past this house which is for sale at £1,250,000.

The local charity boat, The Ladybird, was coming up Godmanchester Lock, so it was not long before it was our turn.   I was assured by the passengers that they were having a wonderful time.

A lady from a boat moored by the lock came across with a windlass to lend a hand with the vee gates - most unexpected, but much appreciated.

Houghton lock had a few gongoozlers and with craft coming up, help was at hand, so another easy passage.  As we approached Hemingford Grey we made our way carefully past these craft

to moor up on the town moorings for the night.

 

These swimmers were a Dad and his three children - I am not sure how far they went, but it was a lengthy swim for youngsters

Sitting minding my own business there was a loud, swift 'woosh' outside the side hatch window - it was this swan going past at high speed

A wonderful sight, but I am not sure who or what he was trying to see off.