Newcastle-under-Lyme District

This morning we had a steady stream of boats passing us heading north and only one heading south. This included a couple of fairly large ‘working boats’, old historic boats with large cargo holds at the front a small boatman’s cabin at the back and a beautiful sounding engine. Our first landmark this morning was the Wedgwood factory, just a minute after departure. A short while later we came to Trentham Lock (11 ft 11 inches) and a queue of boats! A working boat which had passed us a fair while earlier was chugging at the gates longing to be let in and another boat sat on the lock landing in front of us. Edward made friends with the 6 year old girl from the boat in front, Mia, (we think they live aboard with two adults, two young girls and two dogs!). He and Sarah helped with the gates and paddles for their passage.

By the time we made it into the chamber the best part of an hour had elapsed and a further three boats had joined the queue behind us. A damaged paddle gear complicated matters but as often happens a couple of crews behind us assisted and we were then soon on our way.

A steady cruise followed and we passed where we moored on our first night, not quite as peaceful as the building site opposite was in full swing. Moving through into Stoke-on-Trent the beauty of the canal slipped away behind us and we were faced with more and more graffiti, concrete and litter. At Stoke Bottom Lock, the first of five in the Stoke Flight (50 feet), we once again encountered a queue and the boats assumed the same order as before. This gave opportunity for Edward to play with Mia for a while. When it was our turn in the lock we were joined by the same crew as before. The lady from the boat behind said they had set off from Oxford, heading to Skipton to visit grandchildren!

Eventually we made it to the top and bade farewell to our assistants. We passed the Black Prince base and carried on North for half an hour before winding, much to Sarah’s relief as she did not fancy the Harecastle Tunnel! We moored at Middleport Pottery and explored their heritage trail, looking in buildings detailing the process which we all found interesting. Some views may be familiar to long term viewers of The Great Pottery Throw Down, as this is where it used to be filmed. Sadly we didn’t see the actual room.

Our return leg was pleasant in the late afternoon sunshine. We find ourselves just 5 minutes cruise away from the Black Prince base, moored with other boats. We have an early start to get our boat back by 9am, but at least we don’t have far to travel!Read more