River Nene:Fotheringhay

We set off early to get a bit of distance in credit. The wind had died down a bit, although it still proved troublesome at exposed lock landings. Approaching Titmarsh Lock we passed our first moving boat in over a week. The lock gates were open and the paddle up, so was he the culprit? Not that it bothered us because it saves a lot of time not having to lower the guillotine gate each time. Thus it was for the next sequence of locks. Here, the flow over the top gates was dramatic once the guillotine was raised. There is a short new EA mooring below Titchmarsh and at the next lock room for two boats probably at the King's Head pub just before the lock. At Upper Barnwell Lock there is a restored mill that looks as if it has been redesigned as a restaurant because the smell of food was inviting. We had the intention of visiting the chandlery at Oundle Marina for some odds and ends. The entrance is very narrow and points downstream, but we managed to get through and were then at a bit of a loss as to where to go, as there was no signposting and boats scattered some on pontoons all round the old gravel pit. We eventually found the diesel wharf which was short and occupied by a boat all sheeted up so access was effectively impossible. No sign of reception. So we left. Not much of an opportunity for casual mooring on the river either. Oundle Cruising Club did have space, though obviously this is private. Oundle wharf (further on after the loop in the river) looked like an overgrown backwater. At Perio Wharf we met up with Sue (nb No Problem) a fellow blogger who we have passed en route before but never the opportunity to meet in person. Having recently crossed the Wash and really enjoyed the experience there is fresh information for us on the web when we come to do the same in a month's time, but going the other way. Reaching Fotheringay we planned to stop for lunch. There are extensive bankside moorings (£4.00 per night). As we stopped, the rain started and looked to be setting in so we decided to stay here the night. Actually, the rain was just a passing rain band and stopped after an hour, but we were cold and the boat cabin was cosy so here we are!