July 23: Lock 12 to Lock 13

Our plan on day 3 was to get through lock 13 and stay the night on the far side. This would leave us 2 locks to Sallins, where we planned to spend a few days to recover. The lock was only a couple miles away, so it seemed like it would be an easy day.

We arranged with David and Lisa to head out in the early afternoon. We finally headed out shortly after 2:00. We went ahead, and they were meant to follow close behind.

The Canal From Above

Low Bridge, Everybody Down

Along the way to Lock 13, was Hazelhatch, where we had originally hoped to stop for the night. There is a little pub there on the canalside which we visited previously as we scouted out the canal. Sadly, Covid meant that the pub was closed. As you can see here, there are many (illegal) live-aboards moored in Hazelhatch. The engine was still running hot, and required regular clearing. One of our breaks came right after the bridge, and we sat in the middle of the canal for about 20 minutes. We had a nice chat with a couple men who had a large barge there.

Coming into Hazelhatch

A Heron on a Narrowboat

Despite needing to constantly monitor the temperature, we made good time, and arrived shortly after 5:00. We pulled up to the jetty and moored behind what appeared to be the WI weed-mowing vessel. Next to the lock was an amazing estate, which also boasted a wedding venue. Michelin-star restaurant, cafe and shop. Sarah scouted it out and then sent me up to procure our dinner at the little bistro.

A Glimpse of the Lyons Demesne Over the Wall

David and Lisa weren't so lucky. Their keel and rudder were horribly fouled by weeds, and David ended up having to take a swim to clear them. He also pulled up the rudder to just below the water line, leaving him with very little control. When we caught sight of them, I took the bicycle and rode back to offer words of encouragement. It was around 7:00 when they finally pulled up and rafted onto us. We decided that with the late hour. we would go through the lock the next day.

They headed up to the restaurant to have a pint out in the garden, and Sarah encouraged me to join them. It was my first time out in over five months!  We sat and chatted until around 9 and then headed back to get some rest.

Sunset on the Patio at Lyons

Evening at Lock 13