The Ashby welcome

Wednesday, 18 February 2009 21:51

We both remembered Marston Junction! We have passed by on a number of occasions, always looking back down under the bridge – “we will do it one day!”

Marston Bridge 15

Marston Bridge marks the approach of the junction from the South

As I explained a few days ago it is a very tight turn right and fortunately the canal has been widened here to allow boats to swing out left before turning into the junction.

Looking back it shows how narrow the channel is through the bridge and for a few yards after.

Marston Junction from the Ashby

It immediately feels very rural and bridge 1, Orton’s Bridge is an attractive welcome to the canal. It is a typical “Ashby bridge”

Orton’s Bridge 1

This view of Quarry Bridge 2 is even better!

We moored for the night just beyond Quarry Bridge on a handy stretch of piling. The official moorings on the Ashby are few and far between. This must cause a problem in the summer and actually the winter too, as boats overstay.

Sometimes there is a stretch of piling, particularly on corners. If you are lucky (as we were) the piling continues for a bit after the corner. If it is deep enough it is possible to moor. As the canal is narrow and shallow, it is a good idea to make sure that other boats can pass without difficulty and can see you as they round the corner!

One boat we passed was named “Festina Lente”. There are quite a few on the system with that name! This particular boat was very good at the “festina” but definitely forgot the “lente”! It is not possible to move at his speed without a breaking wave, thus helping to erode the banks. Not a good idea. The AshbyCanal is to be taken leisurely, appreciating the scenery, wildlife and other boaters!