Newbold

What a lovely mooring last night, it’s the first time we have ever managed to tuck in here. There was supposed to be a meteor storm last night and I sat out on deck around midnight looking at the sky, I could faintly see the stars but it was no where near dark, I didn’t see a meteor. We did however hear a large firework display somewhere. 
This morning there were boats passing around 6am I think and we set off at 9 AM.
Since we were last this way the old Blue Haven Marina which I believe now has connections with Clifton Cruisers has pilled all their frontage, They also have some nice looking floating lodges in their basin . I wonder how long it will be before the moorings all go?

At Hillmorton Top Lock both chambers were against us, so Diana drew the top paddles for us and the Hire boat following, they were more than pleased as it was their first lock and they were dreading it, so we stopped to give a bit of tuition, reenforced at the next two locks. The bottom lock has a lovely show of orchids now on the end of the lock island, they take great care of them not to get them harmed.

After leaving the locks there were very few moored boats until we got round the corner where one was untying as we passed and followed on almost running up my stern as we passed the last moored boat. Once clear I pulled away from him but at the next lot of boats he was there again so after clearing the Clifton Moorings I waved him by. We stopped in Rugby to fill with water the towpath moorings almost empty before setting off again to moor on the two day moorings at Newbold. We had plans for Sunday Lunch at The Marley Mow so Diana shot of to see if we could book a table for 1PM. came back with the reply, “No they were very busy but if we come straight way they would fit us in”. What an obliging establishment, got or drinks and sat down with apologies there may be a bit of a wait. A couple of minutes later a girl laid our table and as soon as the order had been taken for a party of seven she was with us.
What a meal, the beef was so tender, fresh veg, great and very friendly staff. They even supplied a sealable container for all the meat we couldn’t eat. I think next time we will ask for a pensioners portion.

Since I have been sat here trying to write this I have had my own historic boat parade going by.

Today’s Journey 5½ miles with 3 locks in 2½ hours