A Bridge Too Far

The weather was good when we woke up this morning so the decision was made to move as poor weather was forecast for later.
 Our first obstacle was the two locks in front of us, these are double width locks and the gates are very heavy to open and close. We set off with John and we shared the locks with him - as a lone boater he finds this helpful and we pick up hints and tips from him.

Our plan was to get to Christleton (outskirts of Chester) in one leg before the rain started, we had 3 locks to work and 10 miles to cruise. Locks often take a little longer than anticipated - safety is paramount and at this time of year with bits of snow still hanging around they can be slippery. After Crow's Nest bridge (where John moored)  there was a long line of moored boats and it is canal etiquette to slow right down past moored boats to prevent wash - it does make for slower progress. By now the rain clouds were overtaking us but we pressed on and reached Christleton by late lunch time, we are moored right outside a Harvester Pub but have slightly pleasanter views to starboard and the pub did prove useful for a quick reasonably priced lunch!

Last night's mooring in the countryside at Bunbury

Micky Jay in the lock with space for John's boat to move in alongside

Looking back at the lock 

View of remains of Beeston  Castle 

 We both agreed that taking the weather conditions into consideration we had cruised 'A Bridge Too Far' today, but we are now happily moored up, warm, cosy and fed - it's not a bad life.....

Bye for now
Ali and Baz