Start of May Trip

We set off from Cornwall at 8:30 so that, even with a coffee break at Sedgemoor Service Station, we arrived at Lower Heyford a couple of minutes after 1 o'clock. The roads were relatively quiet and the only time we had to slow down was for three 50mph limits around road works. We had not stopped for coffee at Sedgemoor for a while - the coffee was a bit better than we remembered from a while back but the station as a whole is a bit sad and really needs a makeover. The shop is remarkably minimal compared with, say, Taunton Deane.

As we arrived, Nigel spoke to us about the work which he had carried out and some additional advice as well. It seems that all that we had hoped to be done has been completed - as usual David did not have an invoice for us so we shall have to see what the 'damage' is sometime later!

As we unloaded the car we also checked out the new facilities - fridge (properly wired in), oven, hob and radiator in the bathroom.

We made good progress with the unpacking so that we were able to cast off just after 3:30 but the first task was go go just under the bridge to the water point - the tank was very thirsty as the last time we filled up was back at Long Buckby (as far as we can remember!)

It had been a pleasant drive up and by the time we arrived the car temperature said 14C - a very pleasant change to the last trip. Although there was a stiff breeze, we were comfortably warm as we made our way back up the southern Oxford.

Spring flowers are now making a strong show and soon after setting off Christine spotted a pretty clump of kingcups.

Bridge below Allen's Lock

As he waited below Allen's Lock, Mike snapped another picture of the cheerful flowers.

Waiting Below Heyford Common Lock

It was good to be able to include some photos just for the blue skies and spring views - one here just before Somerton.

Approaching Somerton Meadow

There were several spaces at the moorings beside Somerton meadows - a bit surprising as in the past they have generally been rather busy.

Below Somerton Deep Lock

Somerton Deep Lock is one of the biggest rises on narrow canals, making the bottom gate rather heavy to operate. This stretch of the Oxford has, unusually, only a single gate at the bottom end of the locks. The view back across the fields was worth another picture - but the wind was quite strong which made mooring just after the lock more of a challenge than normal!

We have probably related this before but the cottage that at one time housed a lock keeper, is very isolated with no road access. A lovely spot but not very practical - in the window was a bunch of daffodils well passed their best. The house is clearly used but perhaps it is a holiday home.

Time now for a chicken and ham pie!

4.3 miles - 3 locks