We stayed at the mooring just after Acton Lock, Hackney for the day as we wanted to visit London Zoo.
The Zoo was a little disappointing. Some areas seemed run down and a little tired. The Zoo’s emphasis on conservation didn’t really wash with me and we both came away with mixed feelings.
Pub!! That was the answer and the Fox received it’s second visit in as many days.
The next day it was early up-time as we sought to turn round. This is always a mission in a 58 foot boat, but there are winding holes or turning areas marked on out trusty Nicholson Guide.
We didn’t have to go too far when we saw an opportune turning point not marked. We made a three-point turn and headed back along the Regents canal.
We stopped at Victoria park to allow the dogs a run and had a hearty breakfast, resuming our short journey along the Regents, and then back up Ducket’s Cut to join the River Lee.
The three locks at the end of Ducket’s are extremely hard work with heavy gates and we were glad to cruise along the unending industrial part of the Lee.
We fuelled up at Lee Valley Marina and continued along the Lee during intermittent showers and gusts of wind.
It wasn’t the wind that caused the next major problem. It was the speed of the river entering the lock at Picket’s lock. A feisty lock at the best of times; this time it swung the boat violently against the side of the lock. A crash was heard in the cabin and 3 glasses met their demise!
Narrowboating is a contact sport so we weren't too bothered about yet another scratch on the gunwale.
By the time we reached Waltham Town lock, we were very tired. It was nice to have a shower, light the fire and settle down with a glass of wine.
[Technical]
[Fuel – 75 litres. Full. 60% 40%. £85.]
[Emptied 1 Elsen]
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