Day of rest? No, that's Monday!

We set off at our usual time and just around the corner we arrived at Pigeon Lock. 

Now, all the way along boaters have been telling us that the pound below Pigeon Lock is very low, keep to the middle or you'll run aground. Well, when we got to the lock we were second in line but we had to wait for about 30 minutes while C&RT men let down water to try and improve the water level below the lock.

A flattering picture of the captain getting ready to cast off.

Once we got going we went through Enslow and got a peek at the Satellite Earth Station.

You never can see much but the trees are getting taller each year.

We then came to one of our favourite sections on the Oxford Canal and that's where it is joined by the River Cherwell. It's a fairly deep, winding stretch of water and, after all the shallow bits, the boat really comes alive.

However, when we got to Shipton Weir Lock we had to queue again because the same C&RT men were letting water down to the next section.

You now see what I mean about Monday being a day of rest!

We arrived at Thrupp only to find that all the visitors moorings were full. So, empty the loo, take on water, get rid of rubbish and recycling - you know the drill by now - and turn the boat around as it's time to think of going back. 

Once again a masterclass turn.

And while the captain was filming from the front... 

My own view from the back.

We did manage to get a mooring right near the church, almost as you're leaving Thrupp. 

We decided to go for a walk so we walked back down to the winding hole, along to the pub and across country to the church.

The church was open and inside was a splendid stained glass window.

After that, back across the canal to the boat in time for supper. Our take on a chicken risotto.