Onwards, down, then up to Zouch.

The day dawned with bright sky's and warm sunshine. We left our overnight mooring, moved about half a mile, then stopped!

We were outside of Mercia marina and the chance to pop in to Midland Chandlers was hard to resist. Like a sweet shop for boaters. This marina has matured since we last visited and looks very pleasant. We walked to the chandlers, had a mooch and bought a few bit's. Back to the boat and off. Our Nicholson's is not that old, but it is somewhat out of date for this area. Whoever proof read it needs glasses as there are some glaring mistakes. This canal remains full of surprises and is very pleasant. I suppose the weather helps.

The first wide lock was soon in view. We descended this alone, just missing another boat ahead of us. However by the second lock at Swarkestone, we had caught them up. This was a Canaline boat with a couple on their first boating holiday. They were thoroughly enjoying the experience and it was a pleasure to share this and the subsequent locks through to Shardlow with them. I do not think it will be long before they are out again and we gave them some recommendations. Our ways parted at this lovely location as they were staying the rest of the day before returning the boat to Sawley in the morning.

Our locking companions at Shardlow

At Sawley locks we made use of the services and then descended onto the river section. What a pleasure it was to cruise on wide deep waters with truly splendid views. Passing the entrance to the Erewash canal and the Trent, we were soon turning onto the River Soar. All new territory for us and it did not disappoint.

Derwent Mouth lock

Crossing the gates on Derwent Mouth lock

Out onto the River Derwent

Looking back to the Trent & Mersey canal
we have now travelled all 93.5 miles of it

Under the M1

We were now on the up, and on schedule for the meet at Barrow. We enjoyed the river and the locks were a pleasure, but by the time we were at Kegworth, we were flagging somewhat. As we passed, we were hailed by Karen from N.B. Serenity. They were moored at Normanton and heading for the meet. Much as we would have loved to have joined them, at Zouch lock a lady told us that mooring there was very limited, so we called a halt just above Zouch lock.

Sawley Locks

Looking back on Sawley Locks

Out onto the River Trent

Trent Lock, the Erewash canal to the left, Cranfleet Cut straight on and River Soar to the right

Kegworth Deep Lock

Nice pad!

By this time it was after 6pm, so what did we do? Well we set about cleaning the roof and one side of the boat! Trisky must look her best for the meet, despite a few war wounds. By 8pm we were bushed and called a halt. Still one side to clean but looking good. So well knackered be we, but nearly there, hopefully before the weather breaks. Really looking forward to the gathering and meeting up with both familiar faces and hopefully, some new ones.

Miles 20
Locks 13.