After the extended day yesterday, we had now caught up on our schedule for our booked mooring back at Swanley Bridge once again. As a result we had only a short cruise, starting late and finishing for lunch time.
The forecast had been a bit mixed and disappointing but, although very grey skies the temperature was much warmer than anticipated and the rain held off. Only a few photos today as the light was unhelpful and the scenery, whilst pleasant, held few surprises. Also, the three locks we worked were busy with queues at each of them, in both directions and so not so easy. OK, if we had been more determined perhaps, but boat crews were keen to 'assist' us out of the way!
We have noticed that on this cruise a good number of the hirers are from overseas. At one lock we had Swedish going up and Norwegian going down - they waved their respective flags at each other - a friendly warning?
After setting off, we could see on a hill in the distance just a glimpse of Hinton Hall, but by the time the camera was pointing in the right direction it hid itself in the large covert. This large country house was built in the 19C but has stood empty for many years, gradually decaying, despite its listed building status. Plans were submitted earlier this year for its conversion to a 43 bed nursing home together with a separate dementia unit in the grounds. The application has been rejected as the conservation advisers to the council do not believe that the plans make the best use of what remains of the heritage structure.
The first lock today was Povey's Lock. All of the locks from here on down have fast running bywashes which can catch the inexperienced steerer especially as they aim to enter from below.
After descending Willeymoor (bit too early for many lunch customers) and then Quiosley Lock we took the second of three Visitor Moorings between here and Marbury Lock, Turned out to be a good choice -we had at least one mobile signal and it was very pleasant and peaceful. A steady stream of boats passed in both directions.
3.2 Miles - 3 Locks
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