Bristol to Bradford-On-Avon

Days 10 – 14

Just proceeding quietly (Eastwards) back towards Caen Hill Marina (Devizes); with stops in Bath to, again, catch up with family; and in Bradford on Avon to catch-up with my ‘ex’: Kate, and her husband: Richard. They brought delicious ‘fish and chips’ down to the boat, and a convivial evening was had by all.

Along the way we met up with old friend: Tony O'Niell and his recruits (pressed men and women) on a 'hire (rented) boat'.

Here they are entering one of the Locks in Bath.

It so happens that it is one of the deepest locks on the whole canal system ... nearly 20 ft.! 

In the evening, in company with the Dutch family from the other narrowboat, we all repaired to the ROYAL OAK; for some singing. Sadly; that hostelry was run by the most miserable publican it is possible to imagine. We were the last patrons in the bar when - at 9:45pm. - he called "last orders", and at 10 o'clock locked the door behind us. It is to be said that he was the subject of much derogatory conversation! 

A predominantly wet day (Thursay) discouraged boating; but provided enough bright intervals for a few snapshots around this pretty town.

... this is where they were stored ... 

In the middle ages, common practice had working folk of a parish 'donate', yearly, one tenth (a 'tithe') of all their labours, to the local church or monastery.

 ... in the Tithe Barn.

 

The weather (Thursday) not being conducive to travel, we lit the stove, read our books, perused the newspaper, did some crosswords, etc. and - generally - loafed around. Somebody has to!

Total progress, since last report, was: 27 miles + 14 locks. Weather: this is England ... what weather were you expecting?

More soon, Tom.