Back to Consall, River Churnet

Though still stunningly beautiful, the return cruise from Froghall Tunnel to Consall was somewhat stressful. To add to the complications of narrow channels and tight turns were gusts of wind and several oncoming boats to squeeze past. Whiskers is becoming increasingly stir crazy being kept inside or on a lead, making it more difficult to get in and out of the boat to fetch things whilst traveling.

Boats were moored where we'd planned to stay so we decided to carry on, fill with water and see if our previous mooring was free. A dozen or so walkers were picnicking on the grass by the waterpoint where we needed pull in for water. They were happy to move but it took time to gather their things and in the meantime Will was trying to avoid bumping into them or catching them with the centre line. Thank goodness our previous spot was free, even if we did return to the same grumpy young neighbours as before.

The nearby Black Lion (a popular name round here!) had been closed on our last visit but was open now, so on our second day we sat in their beer garden overlooking the canal and railway station while munching on burgers and sipping our drinks. The rest of the afternoon was whiled away sitting on the stern with the furries listening to bird song and using the Merlin app to see if it identified any unusual species. It didn't, but it was a joy to listen all the same. On the morning we left, Will caught sight of a Blackcap, which made his day 😊.Read more