So very hot, we had to stop!

Only a short cruise today and moored up just after 2 in the dappled shade of a high hedge. It has been a little windy today, but this has been all the more welcome due to the heat.  There is an ulterior motive to us mooring just below the lock at Sandon though.

We have gleaned from reading the " Manley Ferry " blog, that Paul and Elaine quite rate the Dog and Doublet here.  Ali phoned around 12 to book a table and it was either 6.15 or well after nine, so we took the earlier slot.  It is steak night, so looking forward to sampling the fare.

We left our mooring this morning just before nine.  Approaching Great Heywood, I was anticipating a wait at the locks, but there was no queue and our ascent was good.  Stopped at the services and topped up as we had completed yet another wash load en route, coz we can now.....

I think we must be between the hire boat schedules as saw few today.  This part of the T&M is lovely.   The only slight blight being the main rail line never to far away. But this is only a momentary disruption to tranquility and for a railway anorak, it would be bliss.  So a short day for a good reason...

Past this morning by Towcester & Bideford

Butty waiting for the lock

Some huge Gunnera plants along the bank

Our neighbours tonight

Miles 8.5
Locks 4