Heading down the Grand Union canal toward Warwick there's a small obstacle to negotiate. Called the Hatton Flight comprising 21 double locks.
Well maintained locks and paddle gear with mown grass and an excellent towpath made for an enjoyable and strenuous 3 hours.
With no boats going our way we had no one to share the labour with.. Still the day was fine with a bit of cloud cover until the last 3 or 4 locks so wasn't too hot....
First lock going down....
The café by the second was doing a good trade....
First opened in 1799 by 1929 volumes of trade called for the widening of the locks and by the mid 1930,s the 1000 men workforce had the job completed..
After 4 locks you turn a corner...
To see more locks and the Gothic tower of the Church of St Mary in the background...
Looking back on the first 3rd... known as the" Stairway To Heaven" by the workers..
The large winding gear for the paddles is unique but makes for easier winding than the normal lower back breaking model..... 22 and a quarter turns to raise one paddle to let the water in or out...
Only opening one gate each end to enter and leave each lock works out about 1869 revolutions of the windlass handle.
No wonder we got "Muscles " on our "Turds"...
A tasteful distraction on the way down the flight....
There were plenty of "lookers" and the young kids get a thrill watching and asking questions.
An offer for a ride hasn't been refused yet...
Down from Scotland.....
Moving to the next lock...
By the three quarter mark if the locks havn't "Stung" you this angry fella may do...
Moored up in Warwick... Rainy day Sunday...
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