Blisworth Tunnel

Grand Union Canal, Norton Junction, 1 tunnel, 7 locks,  15 miles

The Blisworth Tunnel, Wednesday.

Well that was an experience! The Blisworth tunnel takes about 30 minutes to go through, it is dark and at times there is water pouring down through various vents and gaps. Lynne spent most of the time inside making sure the dogs were ok. We had the curtains closed and the lights switched on. I had the boat’s headlight on so I could see where we were going, just! There is room in the tunnel for two boats to pass each other, with only a few inches to spare. This was a test for my helmsman skills indeed. We passed one boat perfectly, then just before the end of the tunnel another boat appeared. I had our boat perfectly positioned a few inches from the right hand side of the tunnel, but “thump” the other boat clipped the side of ours. Their skipper shouted “your headlight is too bright! I think he was just covering his own embarrassment.

Checking out the tunnel with some of the crew of Brumpoolie before setting off.

Off we go into the unknown!

We made it!

After the tunnel, we had decided to moor at a small place called Weedon Bec. As we made our way there, I spotted a yard selling cheap diesel. So I managed to stop the boat in time and moor up. Lynne took Minnie off here and walked her along the towpath. I would catch her up later in the boat. The diesel was only 88p a litre and the boat took 30 litres to top up. There was also cheap coal and wood, so we got 2 bags each of wood, kindling and coal (smokeless of course) After paying, we set off again to head for Weedon Bec. We arrived at about 4pm and moored up for the night. This spot was beside a Onestop convenience store, so I went off to get some provisions. We were also beside a main rail line, and although the trains were frequent, we quickly got used to the sound. It was only for one night anyway.

Thursday, and we set off for Norton Junction and our next overnight stop. To get there we had to go up seven locks in total.  The weather was still pretty bad with the rain constantly starting and stopping. When it rained it was either persistent drizzle a heavy downpour. Again Lynne was doing the locks while I steered the boat. As  the locks are wide locks, it is best to share with another Narrowboat. This saves on water so it is important to share if at all possible.  Lynne had walked the short distance ahead to set the lock, while I untied the boat ready for the off. As I was doing this another boat passed and asked if we were doing the locks. Perfect,  we had someone to share with. It also meant of course the work is shared between more people,  and it makes it easier for Lynne. Seven locks later, we had reached our destination. The mooring spots are just after these locks, we tied up for the night. At the top lock Lynne spotted the craft shop she wanted to see. And I spotted a nice pub. Sorted.

On Friday we are off to Braunston, up some more locks. Braunston is one of the oldest established canal villages on the network. Lot's of boaty things happening here. We intend on staying here for a few days while we get a new inverter fitted.