Thursday 3rd July 2014

After sailing through Fazely junction we took the Coventry branch. We haven't had the chance to explore the Birmingham canals since buying the boat but it won't be this year.

Pleased to see some nice artwork on a rather large brick wall. Definitely cheered up the area but not sure why the windows are boarded up.

After sailing through Tamworth we were in territories new and decided to stop in Polesworth to have a look around. The Abbey looked as if it could be worth a visit but a funeral was taking place. We did find an incredible 2nd hand / antiquarian bookshop. Chester's is packed floor to ceiling (9 shelves high) with books. The aisles are so narrow, due to stacks of boxes, that you have to go down sideways. Most of their sales are via the internet. Could have spent days here but it is only day 3 of the holiday so it was time to press on.

The forecast had threatened rain later in the afternoon but although it was humid none arrived so we decided to tackle the first 6 of the Atherton flight. We moored with the sound of the A5 to lull us to sleep. Not ideal but it was 6.15 and time for a rest.