Kinver

We were both looking forward to visiting the canal at Kinver and reliving the many happy memories of weekends spent walking, cycling, canoeing and having a drink at The Vine.

The day began with a drama as we were about to set off. Vicky was taking the dogs and their dog bags up to the rubbish bin when Leo saw a white goose. Ever since a swan popped its head in through the side hatch Leo has bourne a grudge towards all white waterbirds. A mass of petals had accumulated against the lock gate on top of the water and Leo mistook them as something solid. With a giant leap he sprung from the towpath, only to find himself submerged in cold water. Vicky, Will and two passers-by all called out at once. Leo's sodden head re-emeged and with his little legs paddling furiously he just about managed to keep his chin above water. Will was racing back to Rainboat to fetch his net while Vicky dropped to the ground and stretched as far as she could towards the struggling pup. Luckily it was just far enough and she was able to scoop him up. She was growled at for her efforts as she whisked Leo back to the boat. He did let her dry him little before he protested and began wiping himself on the best throw. We couldn't complain. We were just glad he was ok.

Disappointingly Kinver's canal was taken up with a long line of permanent moorings followed by a long line of one day moorings. We'd hoped to stay longer. Our organised friend Cath had told us that Kinver Market was held the last Saturday of each month so we were able to arrive early and make the most of it. Kinver is a cute village with characterful buildings and a quaint feel. This sunny bank holiday weekend had drawn a good number of visitors and a live band by the clock tower added to the feel good vibe. The butchers, bakers, high end grocers, craft shop, gift shops and cafés all had their doors open. Artisan stalls dotted the high street and alley, culminating in a cluster on the green at the far end. We picked up some over priced samosas and olive focacia for our lunch and some home baked biscuits for the dogs before loading up with some groceries.

Apart from its attractive highstreet, Kinver is famous for dwellings in the red sandstone ridge, rising high above the village. Vicky had never visited these rock houses and Will had last seen them when they were open access and falling into disrepair. Since then the National Trust has taken them over, repairing, restoring and sharing their history.

It was a tiring hike to get there, but worth it. Usually dogs aren't allowed in the houses but with Leo and Tiger in their bags the staff were happy for them to come in.

Of the three levels, only the Holy Austin Rock Houses on the lowest had been restored. They'd been lived in right up until the 1960s. One of the occasional NT volunteers had a grandfather who lived in them and a father who was born here. The middle caves were left to nature and the top level was open for us to wander through the caverns.

We'd have loved to wander along Kinver Edge heathland, with its iron age hill fort, gorse, heather and views over Staffordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire. However, our legs were aching and time was short. Instead we returned to Rainboat and after a rest we waited for a break in the rain and moved her along to just outside the 1 day moorings. Perhaps we can return in winter when the 1 day limit is suspended and we'll have time to visit The Vine, the village chippy and walk the heathland.もっと詳しく