Returning to Banbury

The forecast for today was quite encouraging with a high of 21°C. So, a hearty breakfast before we set off. 

Granola, toast and apricot jam with tea and coffee. Tea for the captain and real coffee for me, the only caffeinated drink of the day. 

The first lock of the day was Aynho Weir Lock. This is where the River Cherwell crosses the path of the canal. 

But, before that, I managed to get the front fender stuck under the beam on the top lock gate. So we had to let a bit of water out, release the boat and then continue to fill the lock again. We then swapped roles because it was obvious that I couldn't be trusted with the boat and, anyway, the top gate was far too heavy and wouldn't budge for the captain. 

Safely through and this is the bridge over the Cherwell. When the river is running high you're not allowed to continue along the navigation. 

We're now a little further on at King's Sutton Lock. The captain also found closing the bottom gate troublesome but luckily a passing walker lent a bit of weight and all was fine. 

Grants Lock. I think that the picture says it all. Such a shame but this cottage has been like this for some time. 

We've moored up about a mile short of Banbury. We then had time for a short walk along the Jurassic Way. Not the most scenic of walks as we had to cross the River Cherwell which was right next to the M40, which we went under, and then over the railway. Still, we got a bit of much needed fresh air. 

Glad we stopped where we did as we discovered that a tree had fallen across the canal earlier in the day and boats were backing up until it was cleared. Boats came past us letting us know that the way was now open and that we'd have no trouble getting through tomorrow. Good news.