Bidford over the river
Bramble Cottage in Marlcliff
Not sure how they got Planning Permission for the “monstrous carbuncle” of an extension, though.
We got away before 09:30, under the arches of the 15C bridge. I’m kicking myself for not going up into the village, there’s supposed to be an excellent bakery selling home-made pies. Mmmm, pies.
Bidford Bridge, built by monks from Alcester. I think the arches were designed by a committee that couldn’t decide on the shape and size…
We went through four locks today, all of which have attractive moorings above. They’ll only accommodate maybe three boats though, so you have to get there early!
Moorings above Barton Lock
We’ve timed it really well today, arriving at empty locks, or with boats just leaving.
Welford Lock, with a big weir on the right.
Just above Welford Lock, typical Upper Avon, with “Cousin It” trees (Mags’ name for willows) hanging over the water.
I think we’re in a “stockbroker belt”, there’re some posh houses around here…
Des Res near Welford.
Binton Bridges, just East of Welford, is a hazard to navigation in high water conditions. The river is shallow here, and the navigation arch is off to one side, making lining up, if coming downstream, difficult.
Binton Bridges
We arrived at Luddington Lock just as a couple of boats were coming out, and there were two more waiting to come down, so we didn’t have to do a lot.
There are very pleasant moorings here, just above the lock, and we’ve pulled over for the night.
Moored above Luddington Lock
Mags looks pensive, I’ve just told her how many locks there are between here and Braunston, Meg just wants her ball throwing…
Just three miles and two locks into Stratford Upon Avon tomorrow morning.
Not sure whether we’ll stop or not. It’ll be busy with tourists, and last time I came I thought that it was very commercialised, you wouldn’t have thought that Shakespeare could have slept in so many different beds and eaten in so many different inns in his 52 years.
The Dover Locks Inn was always considered to be the best, safe spot to moor before or after Wigan on the Leigh Branch. Maybe have to rethink...
Locks 4, miles 6
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