We drove up from home yesterday. When we set off it was a great, sunny day but by the time we arrived at Packet Boat it was not only cloudy but there was also a chilly wind.There were no problems or delays on the way and, with just a quick comfort break at Sedgemoor Services, we arrived just before 2 o'clock. After unloading we settled down to a leisurely evening and and early-ish night.
The day before was the solar eclipse, not quite total but nevertheless the nearest seen since 1999. On that occasion, Wadebridge was unable to see anything as it was completely cloudy. This time the weather was kinder. In fact, the sporadic clouds meant that we were actually able to take a photo when it was just thin enough to see but thick enough to protect the camera.
This morning we visited St Matthew's Church once more. It was quite a 'busy' service which included an adult baptism and the thanksgiving for two children. Overall, it was well organised and good to see that their refurbishment of the hall and adding an extension is now almost complete. We did have a quick look at the main new part but they hope soon to be making good use of it for all sorts of community activities.
After a call at Morrisons for final supplies, we set off from the marina a few minutes after 1 o'clock. It was a pleasant afternoon as we cruised down the remainder of the level pound to the top of Hanwell Locks.
Along the way there were plenty of signs that spring is well on its way with numerous blackthorn bushes shining white, patches of yellow and purple on the towpath.
We passed Bulls Bridge, this time carrying straight on, rather than taking the turn into London. As far as we can tell, the once famous depot was just south of the junction and all that is left is a short section of moorings, including some houseboats.
Another entry for our Unusual Boats gallery - no doubt it was once someone's play toy but now more likely a home.
Two less common ducks (perhaps someone will let us know what breed they are as they are not on our crib sheet! Christine has found a photo that makes them to be Egyptian Gooses, officially declared to be a pest in 2009!) - they would not line up for a good photo so this is the best we could manage.
Another different boat - this one still under construction but already named Brunel.
Although we flirted with the idea of starting down the Hanwell Flight, in the end we opted to moor up for the night above the locks even if it was only 3.30! Our first attempt at coming alongside was foiled by a very shallow edge and we could only get to about 600mm of the towpath. Just above the top lock we found a space. Quite quiet except for the frequent planes departing from Heathrow.
Last year when we came this way, the elsan was temporarily located around the corner as work was starting on demolishing an old workshop and the construction of new homes. The site looks well advanced and visually more interesting than some estates. It is not easy to make out from the photo, but the buildings are arrange in a circular arc. The sani station is now back in its old location so perhaps we will take advantage in the morning.
6.7 miles - 0 locks
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