Spiderland

These statues, whose poses are modelled on the original Olympians, are watching over the rowing museum forecourt. They're to commemorate the 1000s of hours that Steve Redgrave and Matthew Pinsent put into rowing up and down the Thames. The plaque said "In the clothes they would wear to the river".

Goodbye Henley. Hello Marsh Lock..

The female lock keeper on duty was very friendly and helpful. Her favourite dogs are cocker spaniels. but we won't hold that against her. Saw her yesterday at Hambledon lock, where she was also very friendly and helpful. Thankyou Lock Lady.

Out onto the Wargrave/Shiplake reach. Which was a very pleasant cruise in the sunshine, with just enough of a breeze to make it even more pleasant. Felt no great need to trundle along at anything more than tickover.

A newly constructed Postmodern shoebox, with it's own boathouse. Enjoying river views. Situated 'near Henley'. I'll leave it up to your imagination to consider the price.

awwwww..... Shiplake. Picture postcard lovely. The 24 hour moorings across the river were all empty, and appeared well tended. A beautiful and tranquil spot for an overnight. But not tonight.

We think this is Paul Daniels's house. Though he's probably dissapeared himself to Dubai, because we've never seen anybody there, when we've passed. The upstairs curtains have always been drawn. Today they were open. Tada!! But, alas, still no sign of Paul and Debbie.

Shiplake lock was a doddle. Again, the lock keeper was very helpful in making sure that I was alongside safely. So far, I haven't had to climb up any slippery steps on this trip. And I'm very grateful for the work that they do. Topped up the water tank at the services just past the lock, and then out onto Sonning reach...

Guess what Mister found when we were out walking?

Sunset over Sonning.

Spiderland? The little bugs are back. Though thankfully, most of them are still on the outside. But now there are dozens of spiders (within six hours of tieing up) to combat the invading horde.

Henley

Singlehanded, from Bourne End to Henley. The day started off baking hot, and got progressively warmer. Passed through Marlow Lock, Temple Lock, Hurley Lock and Hambledon Lock. Knackered.

1930's Motor Car, with proud owner. Sadly, I was in too much of a hurry today, to ask him much about it.

Sumo was onboard, to give me doggie companionship. But his steering and rope handling skills are rubbish. So I ended up having to do all the work, while he just messed about.

Waving goodbye to the Marina. Lock closures are happening early this year, so we will be back down here again at the beginning of November.

Moo @ Geese.

Eek! Marlow Lock! But thankfully, everything went smoothly. And I didn't ram the entrance, making myself look foolish. I've got a centre line on each side, and they're both long enough to loop round the bollards and back to me. They worked really well, with no need to flap a single line over the chimney and mushroom vents. Glad to see the back of that little stress. Also, when the lock keepers realise you're solo, they're very helpful. The one at Marlow, especially so.

Stopped at Temple Lock's 24 hour mooring for a cup of tea, and to give mister his lunch. It is sadly neglected, and overgrown with weeds. There are no signs anywhere. And I get the feeling that people don't want you to know that it's still there.

The mooring mugging device in Henley accepts debit cards. It's £9 for a night here. But I would rather pay the council, than the bloke on "Willow Brook" who jumps on tourists as soon as their pins are in. Saw him hassling some unsuspecting "Le Boat" hirers down below Henley bridge. I understand that he's making a living. But for your £8 you get no services at all. Nothing. £5 is reasonable for that. £8 is just a cheesy ripoff. And £8 is the norm in a lot of places now. Shameful, really.

Tucked up under the trees, enjoying some nice shade, and looking forward to a peaceful evening.