Slowly getting closer to London

Geoff decided not to go for his pint last evening. despite a rather nice patio overlooking the canal and the swing bridge.   It was possible something to do with the weather!

We were getting to the stage where we could do with a diesel top up and we knew that NB Alchemy had managed it near the Winkwell locks so thought we would try there.

Must do a lot of trade

However there was no sign of life!   So back to the drawing board on that one.

We actually found company for 2 locks today but left them at Apsley as we wanted to stop at the sani station.   As it happened there was a mooring space just before the facilities so decided to call it quits for the day.   We dont normally travel on a Sunday so enough was enough.   Geoff had a little wander after mooring and found a suitable looking pub so we decided we could have our Sunday lunch after all.

Monday morning we moved up to the water point and then down one lock to moor by Sainsburys for a stock of of a few items that were getting low.   

No ambition to go too far as we had had a stoppage notice for one of the locks ahead where a boat had sunk in the lock.    Needless to say navigation closed!  We had thought we might get fuel at Apsley Marina but they dont do fuel.   Not being very successful.  Have tried to loacte one of Jules Fuel barges but no luck so far.

Meanwhile the rain stayed away so we counted ourselves lucky.   

I would love to see what this was like down below!

Since it was 13 years since we had been down this way we dont remember very much so for moorings we are dependent on our guides.    There were moorings shown at Kings Langley just below lock 69A.   However a reconnoitre whilst waiting for the lock was not auspicious so decided to stay above where we were at least in the open.

Today (Tuesday) a gentle start after 8am.   

Checked this out on the web site and it was for sale for offers over £600,000
It had a sold sign

Under the M25 we go

Luckily we had heard last evening that the sunken boat had been cleared from the lock at Cassiobury so no hold up.

We decided to moor just above Iron Bridge Lock.    My turn for a recce today.   Just opposite is Cassiobury Park, a large park area which would be wonderful for 3 year old granddaughter but sadly we are still a little too far away.    There is also a floating cafe by the bridge which provided us with good toasted sandwiches for lunch.   

So settled in for the rest of the day.   A boatyard ahead tomorrow (PS Marine)where I have ascertained that we can at last fill up with fuel.

What should have followed was a peaceful afternoon.......however I have spent far too long holding on for HMRC trying to sort out Giles accounts!!!!!!!   Good job it is club bridge night......a bit of light relief.