Onwards and upwards.

Overnight the temperature dropped somewhat and enabled a more comfortable sleep than anticipated. The morning was a good deal cooler than of late and quite cloudy. We cast off and were straight into the lock, going up once again.

This is yet another really pleasant section, with no towns or villages waterside. The willows on the off side really could do with a trim though, as they encroach halfway across the canal. It was not a problem for us, as there is so little boat movement. Where has everyone gone?

As we neared the bottom of the Stoke Bruerne flight and made use of the services, the sun peeked out and the day brightened. Ali prepared the first lock, and we were joined by a New Zealand couple and together we worked the flight until reaching the pound below the last two locks.

We intended to moor here if there was room. Rounding the bend from the lock gave us a good view of the extensive 24 hour moorings. There were just two boats moored up! Correct me if I am wrong, but is this not the first week in August, and something of a honey spot? I really cannot understand the lack of boats in this area, or is it the same everywhere this year?

We are staying over in Stoke Bruerne tonight, so a bit of an easy day and will have a wander around as it is a few years since we last visited. Then tomorrow, my nemesis, Blisworth tunnel, where we were once rammed !

Miles 6
Locks 6