Grand Union to Tring
Today’s trip was rapidly put together as the original plan for a Northampton activity was cancelled. So the trip was on the Grand Union Canal starting from, and returning to, Cow Roast Lock near Berkhamsted. We met at 0930 for a 1000 start and got on the water quite close to that.
It was a beautiful day with nature blooming and creating a pretty backdrop for a gentle paddle. We passed many walkers, dogs and runners on the way. We also met other kayakers from the Chiltern Club. It was a pleasure to catch up with Peter Scott a friendly, vastly experienced paddler we have met in the past, with a local group.
We also met some paddle boarders that were familiar with the area , and who also took to Coco and Fifi behaving themselves.
The half way marker was exactly five kilometres. This was the distance between the two locks so no portages necessary. The halfway spot was a lovely place for lunch with many picnic benches on a nice open grass verge.
On the way back Phil was introduced to, and practiced, the use of contact towing, and towing by Dave adding some fun, but an important activity for the day.
Overall, a good 10k paddle that would be good for all.
Write up by Chris H