Arrived at Barrow upon Soar.

We finally arrived at Barrow mid afternoon yesterday after an epic journey.  In total we have travelled from Llangollen 151 miles, 107 locks.  10 movable bridges, 38 small aqueducts, 4 tunnels, and two major aqueducts (Pontcysyllte & Chirk) (according to Canal Planner!).

The above included a diversion to Nantwich and a day in Whitchurch, so the journey actually took us 12 days travelling.

We left our mooring above Zouch lock (apparently pronounced Zok) yesterday morning in bright sunshine. This was forecast as the last day of the warm weather before the first taste of autumn.  Well, they certainly got it right, it was a hot balmy day and a pleasure to travel up the Soar.  This is a wonderful section and certainly worth repeating in the future.

Early morning at Zouc Lock (apologies for the refelction!)

NB Serenity at Normanton on Soar

By late morning we had arrived in Loughborough and moored just beyond the bridge in order to do a little shopping.  Ali walked into town whilst I stayed on the boat. After a quick bite to eat, we wended our way up river through the town and then out into the open countryside. It seemed to take no time before we were at Barrow deep lock.  Ascending this we then moored up at the end of the lock landing, ready for the weekend.

A short while later, Pip, Rog and Ozzy (http://nb-windsong.blogspot.co.uk/) walked up to meet us. We had a bit of a catch up and arranged to meet later.  We then set about cleaning the remaining side of the boat.

Ali was still cleaning the chrome when Pip & Rog arrived to rendezvous to the local pub for a few pre meal drinks, then back to the boat for food and a relax.  N.B Serenity arrived about 8pm, so looking forward to catching up with Karen and Ian tonight.

NB Serenity arriving last night

We are both well knackered and for once were early to bed. Today as forecast, it is wet and miserable. We have however had a walk into Barrow as I was in sore need of a dentist. Emergency appointment, twenty minutes later, £150 please sir! Oh well, at least my tooth is fixed. The hair cut at a bargain £5 mellowed me a tad, as did the superb bacon bap in a local cafe.

Looking like we may all test out the local pub, again tonight. Bloody hard work is boating!

Miles 6.5
Locks 4