Glorious day
Trip Start
Apr 03, 2011
1
54
61
Trip End
Sep 12, 2011
Ashton , England, United Kingdom
Friday, September 2, 2011
Locks - 4
The weather was wonderful today. Thought it might be the beginning of an Indian Summer. The river looked splendid. But the sun was shining - I'm sure most places look good in full sunlight. We had noted this mooring place on our way down to Peterborough and we hoped that there would be a space for us when we arrived today. We were in the lock and I had nipped down to check that there was room (which there was). As we were coming out of the lock a boat was coming towards us then turned and settled into the space we had our eye on. I couldn't believe it. Hardly anyone on the river at all and two boats wanting to get into the same space at the same time. Anyhow, there was a small river boat just behind his boat and they were about to leave so I nipped in there instead and it suited us very well. Only drawback was that there was poor phone reception and no internet connection. Hence I am writing this on Saturday.
Took Maisie out for a walk later. Was going to walk to Oundle but changed my mind and we walked into Ashton. Ashton village is owned by the Rothschild family and my first impression was that it had an 'olde worlde' feel about it. Most of the houses are detached and have thatched roofs. The main road is wide and is made of earth and gravel. Charles Rothschild rebuilt the village and converted the now disused mill to supply the houses with piped water and electricity. Stories abound about an old lady who lived in one of the cottages who went around the village making sure there was no hanky panky going on. This tiny village is very well known around the world however because of the conker championships that take place here every year in October. People come here from all around the world to take part and have been doing so since 1965.
Was up early the following morning to walk into Oundle. I thought it would take about an hour to get there but thanks to "The First Mate Guide" I found a path across the meadows and was there in 20 minutes. Oundle has been described as the Nene's crowning glory, some say the loveliest small town in England. I nipped in for the Saturday paper and some tomatoes. Knew we were planning an early start so didn't give myself any time to look around. BUT we will be back - in about 2 years, so shall make sure we visit properly next time.
