Live Boating

Fradley to Tixall Wide

We woke to the sound of heavy rain this morning. Fortunately, by the time we were ready to move off, the rain had just about stopped. The weather continued to improve through the day, turning out to be mild with some sunshine.

We left our mooring spot at 8.30 and soon arrived at today’s first lock – Wood End Lock which used to be a peaceful place set in quiet countryside with an attractive house and garden alongside. Now, preparation work for HS2 dominates the area.

HS2 work

Next stop was in Rugeley to do some necessary shopping  - Steve stayed with the boat and washed a couple of windows while I went to the conveniently close by Tesco’s for bread and milk.

We continued on our way, but stopped again for coffee with friends Peter and Julie at The Taft. We had lunch moored at the end of Peter and Julie’s garden and then moved on, heading for Colwich Lock (where we had to queue!) and Haywood Lock. Just after Haywood Lock, we turned off the Trent & Mersey onto the Staffs and Worcs Canal, and tonight’s mooring was only a short distance further on at Tixall Wide.

Tixall Wide with Tixall Gatehouse and some geese

We went for a short walk and returned to the boat just as it started to rain again. 

A rather intrusive visitor!

Today’s miles and locks – 12.50 miles    3 locks      

Total miles and locks – 47.00 miles  19 locks