Monday 9th and Tuesday 10th July in Worcester.
What a contrast to the Severn Valley Railway Day (which was a joy); having been home for the weekend, we set out on the train journey back to Kidderminster to get the bus back to Stourport where MM is moored. First bus and train were fine but the train from Reading was cancelled. Undaunted, we took the next train to Swindon, which started on time but arrived a little over an hour late - and it was packed, so we ended up standing all the way! The next train was also an hour late so, instead of arriving in Stourport at just after three, it was six o'clock before we made it back after a total of five trains, two buses and eight hours. Our reward was a very welcome gin & tonic!
On Tuesday morning, we decided to treat ourselves to breakfast at "Blossoms", the little café by the last lock - but it was closed! Fortunately, we found the "Stourport Bakery" where we received a warm welcome and an excellent breakfast.
Walking back to MM, we saw this lovely mosaic on the pavement celebrating the history and heritage of Stourport.
We let MM go from her moorings - again with the kind help of Peter, Pam and Pauline. We were sorry to bid farewell to them; they've been very kind. Two pairs of staircase locks take you down from the basin on to the River Severn.
Beside these locks is a permanent fairground, which epitomises the paradox that is Stourport-on-Severn (or "Birmingham-by-the-Sea" as it is sometimes known). It can't decide if it's an historic canal town steeped in history or a kiss-me-quick resort full of kebab shops and pubs.
Leaving the bottom lock on to the River Severn. Note the water level meter on the right, which shows that the river level is at least a foot below normal.
As we left, we passed the once famous "Tontine Hotel", which is now apartments. It was so named because the partners who owned it agreed that the last surviving one of them would have full ownership - such an agreement is called a tontine.
Thomas Telford's bridge - a fine example of his work and the only bridge between Stourport and Worcester, a distance of 12 miles, so a long detour by car. It's easier by boat!
One very bright sheep - cooling its feet in the river, standing in the shade and eating fresh leaves!
The Severn is very quiet and pretty, but you do get the same tree lined view for mile after mile.
Finally, we arrived in Worcester and found our favourite mooring under the shade of a willow tree that has grown considerably since we last moored under it. It draped itself over us almost lovingly...
Even better, it kept the bedroom cool and provided a lovely view from the bed, enhanced by the water reflections dancing on the ceiling.
Being out in the sun all day, we got very hot, so we went to the little café close to the moorings where we found that they sold swan food - and also people cooling food in the form of ice cream. Another good day!
Today: 12 miles, 7 locks and 3.9 hours.
Trip: 84 miles, 57 locks and 47.4 hours.
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