Wednesday 24 and Thursday 25 August 2011

Wheaton Aston Shropshire Union Canal, to Autherley Junction, and onto Dimmingsdale Lock, Staffs and Worces Canal

Before leaving Wheaton Aston, we purchased diesel from Turners Garage in the village. They supply red diesel at a very good price, (today it is 70.9p a litre), and in a very cheerful and efficient way. A fuel pipe extends down the canal bank, and many boaters like us go there just for the good fuel deal. Boats start arriving from 7.30 in the morning!

After refuelling we turned round and headed back towards Autherley Junction once again. The boat has spent a fair bit of time up and down this stretch recently, but we turned right onto the Staffs and Worcester, and new water. The initial start today (Thur) was misty, and very cold out of the sun, almost necessitating gloves, which is ridiculous in August! but the trees are turning to peachy red and orange already.

Our plan today was to stop and visit Wightwick Manor and gardens (NT) - the dog dragged us around the gardens, very neat, formal borders, wild orchards, ponds, kitchen and Caribbean herb gardens. Theodore Mander (paints) commissioned the house for his son Geoffrey in 1887. The interior of the house is filled with Wm Morris furnishings, and pre Raphaelite paintings. We look forward to seeing these on our return in a few days.