We had some vague plans of using the boat during the winter (subject to lock closures) and possibly visiting the tidal section of the river, bit for now we just needed to get Life's too Short to her next home.
We arrived and were ready to set off before 10 (unusual for us!) on a grey, murky morning. We didn't know whether we'd get to Racecourse today or moor up a bit earlier and finish the journey in the morning.
By 10:25 we were through Sonning Lock and safely under the bridge.
The river was really quiet and a little after 11 we were through Shiplake Lock.
As always along this stretch of the river we admired some of the lovely houses, I lose count of how many photographs of the same places we have!
Soon we arrived at Marsh Lock with it's long wooden bridge connecting it to the Oxfordshire riverbank.
The very familiar sight of Henley was next, we cruised by the lovely park and then under the old stone bridge (which cost £10,000 to build at the end of the 18th century!).
As we needed up towards Temple Island I commented that the 'Tour de Henley' cycle race was not proving to be very popular this year - Caroline just gave me that knowing frown!
Temple Island complete with folly and nymph is owned by Henley Regatta and marks the start of the famous regatta course.
Next up was Hambledon Lock, this one has slightly different controls to the majority and took a little while to fathom out.
This looks like a remarkable property, I wonder what the story is behind the integrated ruined tower on one end?
Hurley Lock came and went in a flash (or rather I didn't take any photos) and very soon after Temple Lock appeared where we were followed in by a very large boat!
It was 14:10 when we left Temple Lock, so we decided that we would stop at Marlow for the night and finish the trip in the morning. On the approach to Marlow we spotted a very modern looking houseboat that appears to be a conference room, looks quite out of place here.
Marlow is a very familiar sight with the church and old suspension bridge (which was closed to traffic for repairs at this time CLICK for a link to the details)
And then Marlow Lock, the last for today.
The moorings below the lock tend to be a bit quieter than those on the park plus it meant there was one less lock to navigate in the morning.
A short stroll for dinner at The Two Brewers (which was recommended to us by Pam back at T&K Marina - and we are also happy to recommend!) and then an early night for us.
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