Carnforth

Today's Canal - Lancaster

We began the day with a short 3 and half mile hop up to Carnforth.

Just after leaving we passed the spot which was previously a visitor mooring and we just managed to capture a brief glimpse of the distant view.

A little further and we passed this example of the high culture of the location!

Oh - and they seem to be having a party as well . . .

A few more places offered great vies of the distant hills - but as soon as we glimpsed then they were gone again.

A rare swing bridge on this canal. All it does is provide the entrance drive to a couple of houses on the opposite side. Not even locked. With a 3 weight limit we wondered how they manage when moving house!

Through Bolton-le-Sands, the towpath edge to the canal is lined with this unusual construction. At least it makes clear why boats cannot get close to the edge. In a couple of places, pontoons were installed for a now defunct water bus. However, each was occupied by a couple of boats that seem to have taken root.

Just a rural scene.

We arrived into Carnforth where our maps indicate three stretches of official visitor moorings, of varying maximum stay. Although there were several boats already moored, we pulled into a space at the start, Needless to say, we could not get close to land. Later a boat in front left. The water was very clear and we inspected the depth. It seemed a little better than where we were so we re-adjusted our position so that we could at least get on and off at the bow without the need for the gangplank.

In the afternoon we took a bus into Morecombe. We did not really know what to expect and we alighted on the far side at the Promenade,

We found the Stone Jetty, built in 1853 for a couple of ferries. In 1995 it was extensively renovated as a tourist facility.

The walking surface has a number of designs worked into it - the first was a maze which Mike found his way into and out of even then he was distraught when Christine told other onlookers that he had cheated by stepping over one of the lines (not true!)

The next had a number of bird related jokes. Trust us - this was the best! others were even more gruesome.

Over the edge hands a more recent installation, part of a nationwide project. It seems that it is designed to ring the bell when the tide comes in.

After a cup of tea from the cafe at the end of the jetty we started to walk back and north along the promenade. Part way we managed to find the famous memorial to Eric Morecambe.

Another installation names all of the high points on the skyline. However, it does depend on being able to recognise the shapes - today was rather hazy.

We arrived at the bus stop where we planned to pick up the service back to Carnforth with about 15 minutes to spare so we sat in the pleasant warm sunshine and looked out across the bay.

During the ride we spotted the Venus and Cupid statue. We did at one stage contemplate walking along the coast from Hest Bank to Morecambe and to take in this feature. Somewhat glad we did not bother!

We opted for fish and chips this evening from a shop close to the moorings. They proved excellent and great value.

3.6 Miles - 0 Locks