I’m yet to start looking for gainful employment. Whilst the weather is fine and I still have some money left, I’ve decided to move the boat over a little.
Oxford Canal
The Oxford canal is being shut down in stages.
It’s very short of water.
Many of the places I’ve visited in the past in the summer are now not reachable from the South.
Here’s some links Southernmost to Northern.
Aynho Wharf Strech
Pig Place – Nell Bridge
Cropredy – Slat mill and Little Bourton locks
Cropredy – Varneys lock and Claydon Flight
All of them are closed to navigation. The water levels are too low. That gives you an indication of the scale of the problem on the canal. Roughly half of the Oxfordshire section I navigate is close or restricted.
For that, and other reasons, I’ve decided to move my operations over to the Grand Union Canal. Which, looking at the regular updates from the Canal and River Trust, is having relatively less problems.
Also, the mobile signal should be more consistent. In Oxfordshire, it’s seen a significant drop in speeds and reliability, and I suppose if I want it to be, the Grand Union is closer to the action.
To do this, my only option now is to passage along the Thames.
West to East
More or less straight across. It was around 110 miles when I measured it last.
Jericho
Spent Friday night in Jericho which is basically central Oxford. Went out for one or two drinks then got going in the morning through ISIS lock.
This takes you around through the centrally located parts of the river through the city. Then off down.
Abingdon
I stopped in Abbey Meadows which is virtually to centre of Abingdon, or as close as you can get.
Went out for a couple of drinks in Abingdon. That was quite, but OK. I met some of the boaters behind me so it seemed like a good time.
Came back and set off in the morning.
Next stop Wallingford which is about 20 miles or so down the river.
Here’s a video. Don’t worry it’s shortened. You don’t have to watch all of it to get an idea of the journey.
Wallingford
Wallingford was nice.
Lot’s of activity. People swimming, on paddleboards, boaters, walkers people doing sports, walking dogs, fishing and also sitting the pub opposite the river having a drink or some food. So the full gamut of activities. The weather was about 30 deg or so.
Very good. Only one drink last night.
So much alcohol makes you feel bad. So drained drinking it over the last few days. Maybe I’m showing my age. I don’t think it does you any favours physically or mentally.
Today, I’m moving down again. I’ve got to get to Brentford for the weekend to get my Thames Lock booking.
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It looks wonderful so much going on. The Grand Union has double locks…. Much harder work than the narrow canals….unless you’re in a lock with another boat. Enjoy your Thames trip.