I slept on it. And I still hadn’t decided. I went for a walk up to Tixall Lock with Sam, on the way back, I decided to go via Stoke and the Caldon. Then I changed my mind to go down the Staffs and Worcester and up the Shropppie. Then changed it back. Then I stood on the back of the boat having cast off, and I still hadn’t decided. Going with my original choice would mean continuing on familiar territory, with the fun of spotting more random landmarks. Plus there would be the added benefit of revisiting the Caldon. But that’s hardly adventurous. So the big decision was made. And boy, is it turning out to be hard work! These locks are deeper and there aren’t as many people around. But I wanted adventure.
Just before leaving, I stood back and admired Tixall Wide again. I know why we keep coming back here, along with everyone else. It’s beautiful.
After Tixall Lock, the Staffs and Worcester takes a sharp left turn to cross over the River Sow on one of the oldest aqueducts on the system. And there in front of me was my chance to get than juxtaposition shot of canal and train. Not sure I was any more successful. At least there is a train in in the shot. They do go quite fast, these Pendolino trains.
At the first of a lot of pretty deep locks, I encountered a hotel boat pair. That meant loads of very willing help. I’ve often wondered what it would be like to operate a hotel boat. On the surface, it seems like a great idea. Getting paid to chug along some beautiful canals. But then, I think I like my privacy too much. Not sure I could cope with paying customers living on my boat.
That was the last lock with any help. It got harder from here.
The canal makes a big loop, contouring along the side of the Sow valley. It passes near to Stafford, but keeps it at arms length across the other side of the valley. I the past there was an arm the used the river to get into Stafford. You can see the old junction marked by a signpost that hints at what could be possible if this is restored,
Before passing through Penkridge, you have to resist the temptation of another canalside Midland Chandlers outlet. I didn’t manage it. But I spent less than £10.
Along this section, the Staffs and Worcester flirts repeatedly with the M6. When you are speeding up the motorway between the junction with the A5 and Stafford, you probably don’t realise the slower world that is so close by.
I didn’t get as far as I thought. After passing through Boggs Lock, listening to the roar of the M6 just behind the trees, I was glad the cut moves away from the motorway. I’d had enough so I pulled over just below Gailey Lock.