Semington

Well, we did it! The Caen Hill flight! We descended the 29 locks with Richard and Simon( not our Richard and Simon) on Clara Pay in just under 6 hours. They drop the canal 237 feet in just over 2 miles. It was a wonderful experience, if somewhat of an endurance test, and the sun shone with a stiff breeze at times, the company was good and we look forward to the return journey! At the top lock of the main flight we came across Bob, the real deal when it comes to CRT help. He gave us a few pointers and sent us on our way. The flight was suffering from too much water so we ha to be cautious of not trapping the boat in front of us in the lock by letting our water out too soon. The views and the sight of Hunters Moon and Clara Pay going into and out of locks side by side in perfect harmony is one that will live with me for years to come!

Having emerged from the last lock with legs and arms aching we moored at the nearest spot then relaxed in the glorious late afternoon sun and enjoyed a few drinks and a BBQ. We felt very pleased with ourselves!

Next day we decided to have a non boating day. We got the bikes out and cycled up the flight back to Devizes ( they are electric so the route uphill was a doddle for two oldies!). Our destination was the Wadsworth Brewery Tour. It was brilliant! DAC, our guide, was entertaining and informative and after the 2 hour tour then delighted us with a beer tasting session. We were in seventh heaven!

A brilliant couple of days!

Now at Semington after a short journey today under overcast skies.

Bradford-on-Avon next but maybe a visit to Lidl for Sid tomorrow!