One of my favorite places to walk in town is along the tow path of the Grand Union Canal, which goes right through Nether Heyford on its way from Birmingham to London. Colorful narrow boats cruise up and down the canal, beautifully decorated with plants along the top and artful designs painted on the hull and doorways. If I travel up the river I go into the town of Weedon, and down river is Bugbrooke.
Painted panels on the back hatch of a narrow boat.
Detail from a painting. The pictures often feature castles and flowers.
The tow path slopes off on either side with farm fields. Often sheep will be grazing near the fence by the path. Moorhens, coots, mallards and swans all populate the canal and there are some late summer babies that still look like little black puff-balls!
Swans swimming lazily in the canal.
This was an area settled by the Romans, and up one hillside is a current excavation site of a Roman villa. Abbie and I went up yesterday and had a guided tour by one of the archaeologists on the dig site. It was amazing to see the tile floor of a 270 AD house!
Folks in the narrow boats seem to be having a great time. They have their dogs (and I've even seen a boat cat!), deckchairs, music - all the comforts of home to cruise up and down the waterways. A goal for this year will be to get on the water!
Loving learning about your experience! Thanks for posting!
ReplyDeletelooks absolutely delightful! Enjoy!
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