Frances and Grandson David left us yesterday from Oxford on the coach to Gatwick. They have been with us for a week on the Thames; David managed to push the buttons on most of the locks that we went through. With hindsight, there would be more for him to do on the canals helping with the mechanics of the locking procedure.
We showed them some of the features close to the river that we like and managed to fit in a walk around Wallingford, Abingdon and of course the Abbey tea rooms at Dorchester.
We all walked to Castle hill and Wittenham stumps from Day's lock and have almost finished the the cherry plums that we had picked on Castle hill.
The Oxford photographs give a small taste of the city from the river. Christchurch meadow is a personal favourite. We have seen the steam launch on previous visits, I have included another picture as it is a pleasure for me to see craftsmanship of the hihgest order. The Canada geese make a lovely sight in flight (oops!) and as long as they are flying away from us, we are content. For some reason, they feel the need to talk to each other and to anyone else within earshot ALL NIGHT. I think that their vocal chords must have a direct connection to their heart.
A lovely building is the market hall at Abingdon; built between 1678-82 by Christopher Kempster, a city mason employed by Christopher Wren. The upper floor was in use as a courtroom.
We are moored at Osney as a visit to the laundrette will be made in the morning before continuing our travels.
