Bathampton To Sydney Wharf, Bath

1.59 miles, 0h56m Locks:0 Bridges:5 Average speed:1.70 lock/mph

We set out from Bathampton at 10. 20 and arrived at Sydney Wharf at about 11.15. Our speed was very slow as there are a lot of moored boats on this stretch. Some of them were obviously long stayers but there were also a fair number of boats on visitor moorings.

Folly Footbridge (185) is a good access to Bath outskirts and Morrisons which is why this stretch is always well populated!

The canal bends to the left towards Sydney Gardens and the attractive wrought iron bridges. Cleveland House Tunnel is named for the house that sits on top of it - the first HQ of the Kennet and Avon Canal Company.

As we approached this tunnel we heard what sounded like a steam train hoot, hoot! It took us a little while to realise that this was a warning from The John Rennie to any boats that were coming - it takes up all of the space! Fortunately we were just by the one boat mooring/passing place that is here and were able to pull in. As per usual we encounter JR in a tight place - it is becoming quite a joke!



Around the corner and we arrived at Sydney Wharf, passing the new development next to it.



We were expected and so having permission, we were able to moor on one of Bath Narrowboats slots. We can now stay and advertise for their narrowboat building for a couple of days!

We walked into Bath for lunch with John's brother Pete who works in Bath. It was good to catch up. Then wandered back to the boat via the shops, looking in vain for a pair of jeans for John - all we saw were the washed out style and he wants a "decent" pair!

Today (Tuesday) has been spent catching up with washing, polishing one side of the boat and trying to relax in between!

I have just found an interesting read, an article by Jim Shead about Jane Austin and her links with the Kennet and Avon Canal. Hmm, I think he has convinced me!