18 July There and Back Again

Despite being a day without any locks we've kept ourselves busy.

After a meander into the Sainsbury's near to where we moored overnight (we have to shop regularly as refrigeration on a boat is non existent in warm weather) we started our journey retracing our steps. We were heading south towards Droitwich to meet up with friends on Sunday.

Back past Bournville train station painted a Cadbury's purple.

Narrowly missing a collision at King's Norton junction! We're on the main channel and those joining from the left have to give way. A tricky corner.

We had 3 tunnels today. Wast Hill was our first experience of a long tunnel. At 1.5 miles long it's the longest on the Worcester Birmingham canal.

A bit eerie going in. You have to have a head light on and best to have interior lights on.

1.5 miles to go!

There are regular ventilation tunnels going up to the surface.

Luckily it's wide enough for two boats to pass. Otherwise it would be a long reverse back!

After stopping near the small town of Alvechurch for lunch and then a walk, we continued our journey. Another 2 tunnels and then the locks were going to begin.

Some of the narrow boats we see have quite inventive names.

As we approached the first of what was supposed to be about 30 locks in a row we noticed something a bit 'off'. Edging closer it became apparent the lock was closed, blocking any idea of heading towards Droitwich. 

We moored up, had a family pow wow and decided on heading back via Stratford upon Avon but this time taking the Grand Union canal. So it was back the way we came this morning. But with time ticking by we only made it back to Alvechurch. 

The pub near to where we ended up had a Madness tribute band playing until gone 11.30pm while we played lots of board games. Quite a competitive streak amongst us but lots of laughter!

Could be another busy day tomorrow as we try to work out our route back via Birmingham.