Phew! Twas a tad warm in Milton Keynes.

As soon as we got up yesterday, you knew that the forecast was going to be right. It was hot by 0800 and the temperature soared during the day.  After a quick shower, we were off to the first of only two locks we planned to tackle.

I really do not know what our expectations were of the Grand Union, but they have exceeded them on all counts. Previously we had only come south as far as Milton Keynes, then only to visit a supermarket. The canal has been a revelation.

As we approached Fenny Stratford and the beginning of what on paper looked like a trek through urban areas for many a mile, we were surprised just how green, clean and tidy it all was. This was a theme that continued.

The canal is embraced here by the towns, with well signed walks and cycle ways and many a child friendly park. What I really liked was the juxtaposition of old and new. It really seemed to work. Some of the old bridges are amazing, but then again so are some of the new ones.

There is a little more to these than on first glance wolverton-park-sculptures

After stopping for a quick supermarket stop, we were approaching Cosgrove. We  moored just below the lock, it is all up again now . By this time, late afternoon, the temperature had soared into the low 30's. We both showered, again, but really felt no better for it as it was so hot! We then walked into Cosgrove passing under the canal via the old horse passage and to the Barley Mow, where we met Jane and Paul.

An enjoyable evening was had, although I think I may have yet again over indulged drink wise, but I did need to re hydrate!

Miles 15.5
Locks 2