Through a few leisurely locks and into Kidlington this morning, then via the back waters into Oxford. Over the years we have seen this stretch of canal go from bustling industry to disused industry to massively close-packed housing, but it is all settling in very well to its surroundings, well matched to the character of the place and looks well cared-for. The old boatyard at Jericho is still empty and looking very sorry for itself but it's hard to imagine that it will stay undeveloped for long – despite the strong campaign to keep the boat services for the local community.
And so on to the Thames. Oxford shows its most beautiful face to the river and in sunny weather like today the Thames is glorious. Knowing Oxford as well a we do it is still a delight to see its riverside aspect.
We travelled on through our old stamping grounds at Radley (where the school appears to make rowing compulsory, regardless of aptitude) and on to Abingdon, where the moorings were packed, and busier than I have ever seen them. But a neighbouring boat shuffled up to make space for us and all was well. Best of all, it turns out that our favourite old Indian restaurant, the Spice Garden, still does buffet night on a Tuesday – hurrah!
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