After another excellent breakfast we navigated 4 more locks and 2 swing bridges to Foxhangers Wharf just below the start of the Devizes flight of locks. As this flight comprises some 26 locks just to get you into Devizes and we would have had to do at least 6 (each way) before we could just turn, we decided to walk up the flight. Unfortunately it was a misty morning so the view of the locks was not as impressive as it might have been but it was still breath taking. We stopped near the top for a coffee and tea cake before walking into the town centre for a beer in the Wetherspoons – well when I say a beer Paddy and I had water.
The walk into Devizes had taken nearly an hour and I was conscious of the time as we wanted to get back to Semington for the night to make a trip back to the boatyard Friday morning as painless as possible. Based on the time it had taken us to make the reverse journey we really ought to have been on the move soon after two to ensure getting to Semington before it was too dark for safe cruising. However getting all back on board at Foxhangers Wharf was a challenge and it was after half two we eventually set off. We were however supremely organised on the return journey with bridges opened and locks worked so efficiently that we were moored up soon after 5. Quite amazing although it did help that we had no hiccups unlike the morning cruising the other way when Garry at the helm once again displayed his penchant for a good bush! Sadly the photos cannot do the episode justice although there is one with Phil again demonstrating his entertainment affiliations with a Laurel and Hardy impersonation.
The evening was spent at the Somerset Arms in Semington – a very expensive menu but the food was excellent. Shame about the beer!
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