River Avon, Stratford on Avon, Wednesday 15th July
We strolled around Stratford this morning, looking at the reduced price books in WH Smiff and Waterstones. I spent 90pence on a pocket sized railway book. I feel the need to really push the boat out now and again.
We visited the chandlery at Avon Boating next to Clopton bridge; they are in the process of building up the stocks at present, but they have more useful items already then a lot of chandleries. They both helpful and friendly and they deserve to do well.
We bought a pair of rond anchors for mooring, which were proving very hard to track down anywhere.
We have also purchased our visitor licence for the Upper and Lower Avon from the Tourist Information Centre. It costs £55 and lasts for 15 days and although the trip to Tewkesbury can be done in 15 hours; we will take our time to visit some of the towns and villages on the way.
We moved off into a strong breeze and went into the river lock under the watchful eyes of at least half of the population of Stratford: well, a coach load of visitors anyway. Luckily, I did not disgrace myself and when the other boat arrived in the lock I was able to bring the holding rope on board. We have travelled nearly half a mile down river, mooring opposite All Saints Church in lovely surroundings.
2009 Totals: 404 Locks – 675.5 miles – 18 Bus pass uses.
