The last post, as I recall it, covered the retreat from European waters, way back in late spring. Since then I have been twiddling around the Brinklow, Rugby and Braunston areas. I had a wonderful 2 week break in early September, when a friend invited me to help him move his narrow boat from where his kids had dumped it, to where he wanted it to over-winter. The waterways involved were those in Brittany! They are rarely cruised by British boats, mainly because they are disconnected from the main French canal network. Having now 'done' them, I suggest that if you have a chance of cruising them - take it. We saw most of it in our 2 weeks. There is none of this 4mph speed limit, so in the wide, deep waters the boat can fly along. The boat attracted a lot of attention from passers-by, along the lines of 'Why is your boat so narrow?'
Brittany does not attract many Brits, so its a good place to go for a holiday. Apart from the canals, there are some bits of proper sea to swim in, and the old, huddled together, car-less quarters to explore.
Since returning to UK, I have stayed in the Rugby area and, indeed, have booked a winter mooring within walking distance of Tesco.
This is being written at Newbold famed for its tunnel. Not too far away there is another tunnel - now disused and blocked up. It is the original tunnel, that was used before the straightening of the canal. A kind person has hacked a hole in the bricked-up entrance, so with a torch and a camera you can get to see inside it.
That's it for now. Back soon!!
